Key Takeaways
- Connecticut REQUIRES 20 hours of pre-license education per line (40 hours for combined)
- Pre-license certificate valid for 1 YEAR
- Pearson VUE administers Connecticut insurance licensing exams
- Passing score is 70% on all exams
- Background check required through SWFT Solutions
- Certain professional designations may exempt from pre-license education
Connecticut Producer Licensing Requirements
Connecticut has specific requirements for obtaining a Life and/or Accident & Health insurance license.
Pre-License Education Requirements
Pre-License Education IS Required
Connecticut REQUIRES pre-license education before taking the licensing exam:
| License Type | Required Hours |
|---|---|
| Life Only | 20 hours |
| Accident & Health Only | 20 hours |
| Life, Accident & Health (Combined) | 40 hours |
Key Points:
- Must complete at CID-approved schools
- Must pass a 70% certification exam with proctor
- Certificate valid for 1 YEAR from date of completion
- Certain professional designations may provide exemptions
- New residents may be exempt if applying within 90 days of leaving former state
Important: Connecticut pre-license certificates are valid for only 1 year, which is shorter than many other states. Plan your exam accordingly.
Exemptions from Pre-Licensing
Certain individuals may be exempt from pre-license education:
- Holders of specific professional designations (CLU, ChFC, etc.)
- New residents with active license from former state (within 90 days)
- Non-residents with active home state license
Examination Requirements
Connecticut insurance licensing exams are administered by Pearson VUE:
Exam Details
| Exam Detail | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Testing Provider | Pearson VUE |
| Passing Score | 70% |
| Testing Options | In-person or OnVUE online proctored |
| ID Required | Two forms, one with photo and signature |
Exam Content
Each exam contains two sections:
- General Knowledge - Federal insurance concepts and products
- Connecticut-Specific - Connecticut laws and regulations
Testing Options
| Option | Details |
|---|---|
| In-Person | Pearson VUE testing centers |
| Remote Online | OnVUE online proctored exam |
| Scheduling | Online at pearsonvue.com or by phone |
Scheduling the Exam
- Complete pre-license education and pass certification exam
- Register with Pearson VUE
- Select exam type (Life, Health, or Combined)
- Choose testing option
- Pay exam fee
Background Check Requirements
Connecticut requires a criminal background check:
Background Check Process
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Provider | SWFT Solutions |
| When Required | All resident applicants |
| Timing | Before license issuance |
| Processing | Typically a few business days |
Steps to Complete Background Check
- Apply online through SWFT Solutions
- Pay fee online
- Schedule fingerprinting appointment
- Complete fingerprinting
- Results submitted to CID
Note: A criminal record does not automatically disqualify an applicant. CID considers the nature of the offense, time elapsed, and rehabilitation.
Application Process
Steps to Get Licensed
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| 1. Complete Pre-License | 20-40 hours at approved provider |
| 2. Pass Course Exam | 70% on certification exam |
| 3. Schedule State Exam | Through Pearson VUE |
| 4. Pass State Exam | 70% passing score |
| 5. Complete Background Check | Through SWFT Solutions |
| 6. Apply Through NIPR | Electronic application |
| 7. License Issued | After review and approval |
Non-Resident Licensing
Non-residents with a valid home state license:
- Can apply for Connecticut license without taking the exam
- Must hold active license in home state
- Apply through NIPR
- No exam required if home state has reciprocity
Special Training Requirements
Connecticut has additional training requirements for certain product lines:
Required Training
| Product | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Annuity Suitability | 4-hour one-time course (effective March 2022) |
| Long-Term Care | 10-hour initial training course |
| Flood Insurance | 3-hour one-time NFIP course |
Annuity Suitability Training
As of March 2022:
- 4-hour one-time training required
- Must complete before selling annuities
- Based on best interest suitability standards
- Training must be from approved provider
Lines of Authority
| License Type | Products Covered |
|---|---|
| Life | Life insurance, annuities |
| Accident & Health | Health, disability, LTC insurance |
| Life, Accident & Health | All life and health products |
| Variable Products | Requires FINRA registration |
Contact Information
| Contact | Details |
|---|---|
| CID Phone | (860) 297-3800 |
| Address | 153 Market Street, Hartford, CT 06103 |
| Website | portal.ct.gov/CID |
| Licensing Email | licensing.cid@ct.gov |
How many hours of pre-license education does Connecticut require for a combined Life, Accident & Health license?
How long is a Connecticut pre-license certificate valid?
Who administers insurance licensing exams in Connecticut?
What is the passing score for Connecticut insurance licensing exams?
Who provides background check services for Connecticut insurance applicants?