Key Takeaways
- Delaware does NOT require pre-license education
- Pearson VUE administers Delaware insurance licensing exams
- Passing score is 70% on all exams; exam fee is \$90
- Online proctored exams are NOT available - testing center only
- If you pass one section but fail another, you can retake only the failed section within 12 months
- Background check through Delaware State Police (\$85 fingerprinting)
Delaware Producer Licensing Requirements
Delaware has specific requirements for obtaining a Life and/or Health insurance license.
Pre-License Education Requirements
NO Pre-License Education Required
Delaware does NOT require pre-license education for insurance licensing:
| Requirement | Delaware |
|---|---|
| Pre-License Hours | NOT REQUIRED |
| Mandatory Courses | None |
| Certification Exam | None required |
Key Points:
- No mandatory classroom hours
- No specific courses required
- Study courses are strongly recommended but not mandatory
- Most candidates complete 20-40 hours of self-study
Exam Tip: Delaware is one of the states that does NOT require pre-license education. However, the exam is challenging and thorough preparation is essential for passing with 70%.
Study Options
Candidates typically prepare using:
- Self-study textbooks and guides
- Online exam prep courses
- Practice exams
- National and Delaware-specific study materials
Examination Requirements
Delaware insurance licensing exams are administered by Pearson VUE:
Exam Details
| Exam Detail | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Testing Provider | Pearson VUE |
| Passing Score | 70% |
| Exam Fee | $90 |
| Testing Options | Testing center ONLY (no online proctoring) |
| Exam Format | General knowledge + State-specific sections |
Important: Delaware does NOT offer online proctored exams. You must take the exam at a Pearson VUE testing center.
Section Retake Policy
Delaware has a unique section retake policy:
| Situation | Policy |
|---|---|
| Pass both sections | License eligible |
| Pass one, fail one | Can retake ONLY failed section within 12 months |
| Fail both sections | Must retake entire exam |
| 12+ months since partial pass | Must retake entire exam |
Note: This is different from most states where you must retake the entire exam if you fail any portion.
Exam Content
Each exam contains two sections:
- General Knowledge - Federal insurance concepts and products
- Delaware-Specific - Delaware laws and regulations
Background Check Requirements
Delaware requires fingerprinting and background check through the Delaware State Police:
Background Check Process
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Required | State and federal background check |
| Provider | Delaware State Police |
| Cost | $85 for fingerprinting |
| Timing | Must complete BEFORE taking licensing exam |
| Method | In-person fingerprinting |
Steps to Complete Background Check
- Schedule appointment with Delaware State Police
- Pay $85 fingerprinting fee
- Complete fingerprinting in person
- Results sent to Department of Insurance
- Wait for clearance before scheduling exam
Important: Delaware requires the background check to be completed BEFORE you can take the licensing exam. This is different from many states.
Disqualifying Factors
The Department considers:
- Felony convictions
- Insurance-related violations
- Fraud or dishonesty convictions
- Administrative actions in other states
Note: A criminal record does not automatically disqualify an applicant. The Department considers the nature of the offense, time elapsed, and rehabilitation.
License Application Process
Steps to Get Licensed
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| 1. Complete Background Check | Delaware State Police ($85) |
| 2. Schedule Exam | Through Pearson VUE (testing center only) |
| 3. Pass Exam | 70% passing score |
| 4. Apply for License | Through NIPR or directly to Delaware DOI |
| 5. Pay Fees | License application fees |
| 6. License Issued | After review and approval |
Application Timeline
- Must apply within 12 months of passing exam
- If more than 12 months pass, must retake exam
- Applications through NIPR (preferred) or directly to DOI
Application Methods
| Method | Details |
|---|---|
| NIPR | Apply at nipr.com (preferred) |
| Direct | Contact DOI Producer Licensing (302) 674-7390 |
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 |
Does Delaware require pre-license education before taking the insurance licensing exam?
Can you take the Delaware insurance exam online?
What is the passing score for Delaware insurance licensing exams?
If you pass the general section but fail the Delaware-specific section, what happens?
How much does fingerprinting cost in Delaware?