Getting Started Guide
Pre-Licensing and Testing
To become a health (and life) insurance agent, you must pass a pre-licensing test. This test ensures that you understand the fundamental principles and regulations of health (and life) insurance. Pre-licensing education courses, often mandated by state law, prepare you for the exam by covering essential topics. Successfully passing the test is a critical step in obtaining your health insurance license.
XCEL Solutions
We recommend using XCEL Solutions for pre-licensing because they offer comprehensive, state-approved courses that effectively prepare you for the licensing exam. Their user-friendly online platform, expert instructors, and extensive practice materials enhance your chances of success. Create your account at https://www.xcelsolutions.com/
Course Selection
After creating an account with XCEL Solutions you’ll select your courses. We usually recommend getting both your health and life course together. Select your state and courses, check out and begin to begin your pre-licensing testing.
Course Completion
Once you complete the pre-licensing test, you will receive a certificate of completion. This certificate serves as official proof that you have met the educational requirements necessary for licensure. You will need to submit this certificate as part of your application to obtain your health insurance license.
This step is crucial in verifying your readiness and compliance with state regulations.
State Licensing
After receiving your certificate of completion from the pre-licensing course, the next step is to apply for your state health insurance license. This process involves submitting your certificate, completing a background check, and passing any additional state-specific requirements. Once approved, you will be officially licensed to operate as a health insurance agent in your state.
NIPR
We recommend using the National Insurance Producer Registry (NIPR) for obtaining your state license because it streamlines the application process. NIPR offers a user-friendly online platform that simplifies submitting your application, tracking its status, and managing renewals. Their system is widely recognized and accepted by most states, ensuring a smooth and efficient licensing experience.
Create your account at https://nipr.com/
Schedule Your Licensing Test
Schedule your state licensing test through the National Insurance Producer Registry (NIPR). Their online platform allows you to conveniently select a testing date and location that fits your schedule. Testing may also be done online for convenience. By coordinating with NIPR, you ensure that all necessary requirements are met for your state’s licensing process. Allowing you to efficiently move forward in obtaining your health insurance license.
Receiving Your License
Once you pass the state licensing test, you will be awarded your health insurance license. This license officially authorizes you to sell and advise on health insurance policies within your state. Receiving your license is the final step in becoming a certified health insurance agent, allowing you to start your professional practice legally and confidently.
You may use NIPR to acquire licenses in multiple states.
AHIP Certification
AHIP Certification, provided by America’s Health Insurance Plans (AHIP), is a professional credential that demonstrates expertise in health insurance and related fields. This certification is particularly important for agents selling Medicare plans, as it ensures they understand Medicare regulations, ethics, and plan details. Completing AHIP Certification involves an in-depth course and passing an exam, which helps agents stay current with industry standards and better serve their clients.
AHIP Training
We recommend AHIP Medicare Training for AHIP certification because it provides comprehensive and up-to-date training modules tailored for Medicare professionals. The platform offers a user-friendly interface, detailed course materials, and practice exams that thoroughly prepare you for the certification test. Additionally, their training ensures you meet industry standards and can effectively serve your clients with the latest Medicare knowledge.
Create your account at https://www.ahipmedicaretraining.com/
Errors & Omissions Insurance
Next, you need to obtain Errors & Omissions (E&O) Insurance, which is essential for protecting yourself as a health insurance agent. E&O Insurance covers you against claims of negligence or mistakes in the services you provide. This insurance safeguards your financial interests by covering legal costs and any potential settlements, ensuring you can operate your business with confidence and security.
NAPA
We suggest NAPA for obtaining your Errors & Omissions (E&O) Insurance because they specialize in providing comprehensive and affordable coverage for insurance professionals. NAPA offers tailored policies that meet industry requirements, ensuring you have the necessary protection. Their user-friendly platform and exceptional customer service make the process of obtaining and managing your E&O insurance straightforward and efficient.
Create your account at https://www.napa-benefits.org/
Save your E&O policy!
Agency Onboarding and Carrier Contracting
Once you’ve obtained your Health Insurance License, AHIP Certification, and Errors & Omissions (E&O) Insurance, it’s time to onboard with our agency. This onboarding process will integrate you into our team, providing access to our resources, training, and support systems. We will guide you through our procedures, introduce you to our tools, and help you get started with your new career as a health insurance agent. Welcome aboard!
Once onboarding begins you will receive the following emails:
- Onboarding Email: In our onboarding email, you will receive a warm welcome along with instructions for carrier contracting and agent resources. Included are our own comprehensive certification courses, best practices, and valuable tools to help you excel as a health insurance agent!
Open these emails, follow the instructions and complete each contracting invitation!
