Key Takeaways

  • Massachusetts does NOT require pre-license education - exam preparation courses are recommended but not mandatory
  • Prometric administers Massachusetts insurance licensing exams
  • Life exam: 100 questions, 2 hours; Health exam: 100 questions, 2 hours
  • Passing score is 70% on all examinations
  • Exam fees range from \$10 to \$49 depending on the exam type
Last updated: January 2026

Massachusetts Producer Licensing Requirements

Massachusetts has specific requirements for obtaining Life and Health insurance licenses.

Pre-License Education Requirements

No Pre-License Education Required

Massachusetts does NOT require pre-license education for insurance licenses:

RequirementStatus
Pre-License EducationNOT REQUIRED
Mandatory HoursNone
Specific CoursesNone

Key Points:

  • Pursuant to state law (M.G.L. c. 175, §162L), pre-licensing education is no longer required
  • You only need valid government-issued photo ID to take the exam
  • Exam preparation courses are strongly recommended but not mandatory
  • Most successful candidates complete a comprehensive study course

Exam Tip: While Massachusetts doesn't require pre-license education, the exam covers extensive material on insurance concepts, Massachusetts insurance law, and federal tax considerations. A quality exam prep course significantly increases your chances of passing.

Examination Requirements

The Massachusetts insurance licensing examination:

Exam DetailRequirement
Testing ProviderPrometric
Life Insurance Exam100 questions
Accident & Health Exam100 questions
Combined Exam (1651 + 1652)Available as single session
Time Limit2 hours per exam
Passing Score70%
Exam Fee$39 per exam
Testing OptionsIn-person or online proctored

Exam Content

Massachusetts insurance exams cover:

  1. General Insurance Concepts - Principles, terminology, and policy provisions
  2. Life Insurance - Types, features, and policy options
  3. Accident & Health Insurance - Individual and group health plans
  4. Massachusetts Insurance Law - State-specific regulations
  5. Federal Tax Considerations - Tax treatment of life insurance and annuities

Examination Process

Scheduling the Exam

  1. Prepare using exam prep materials (strongly recommended)
  2. Schedule exam through Prometric
    • Online at prometric.com/massachusetts/insurance
    • Phone: (800) 741-9380
  3. Choose testing option:
    • Prometric testing center
    • Online proctored exam

Exam Day

What to Bring:

  • Two forms of valid, government-issued ID
  • One must contain your name AND photograph
  • Acceptable: Driver's license, passport, military ID

Testing Rules:

  • Arrive at least 30 minutes early
  • No cell phones or electronic devices
  • No personal items at testing station
  • Calculator provided at testing center
  • Results provided immediately after completion

Retake Policy

  • No limit on exam retakes
  • Can retake as soon as 24 hours after failed attempt
  • Must pay full exam fee for each attempt
  • No waiting period required

Application Process

After passing the exam:

Application Steps

  1. Pass exam with 70% or higher
  2. Submit application through NIPR (National Insurance Producer Registry)
  3. Pay license fee - $225 application fee + $5.60 transaction fee
  4. Submit within 12 months of passing exam
  5. Await approval - typically processed within a few business days

Qualifications

To obtain a Massachusetts insurance license, you must:

  • Be at least 18 years of age
  • Be a resident of Massachusetts (for resident license)
  • Pass the licensing examination with 70% or higher
  • Submit completed application through NIPR
  • Pay applicable fees
  • Have no disqualifying criminal history

Lines of Authority

License TypeWhat You Can Sell
LifeLife insurance and annuities
Accident & HealthHealth, disability, LTC insurance
PropertyProperty insurance
CasualtyLiability insurance
Personal LinesPersonal auto and homeowners

Appointments

After receiving your license:

  • Must be appointed by each insurer you represent
  • Insurer files appointment with DOI
  • Cannot transact business until appointment is filed
  • Appointment is company-specific
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Massachusetts Insurance License Application Process
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