In the past eight years, ten states have eliminated the prelicensing education requirement, with more expected to follow.

The most recent to join their ranks, Pennsylvania dropped prelicensing education requirements as of April 29, 2025.

For individuals hoping to become licensed in states that no longer require prelicensing education for certain lines of authority, licensure only requires candidates to:  

1. Apply for the state license 
2. Pass a background check/fingerprinting 
3. Pass the state licensing exam

Look up state-specific requirements here.

Rules vary greatly between states, and this regulation change is no exception. It is more important than ever to understand state-specific prelicensing requirements before starting the licensing process.  

This marks a significant change for the industry and impacts those interested in earning an insurance producer's license the most. In states that no longer require prelicensing education, such as Pennsylvania, it is now up to learners to take control of their course preparation to ensure they’re set up for success.  

To learn more about the implications of these regulatory changes on the industry, and why solid exam prep is still essential, read: States are Dropping Required Insurance Prelicensing Education; 4 Reasons Why Exam Prep is Still Essential