New to CE? Your First-Timer’s Guide to Illinois Insurance Continuing Education

If you’re newly licensed or navigating continuing education (CE) for the first time in Illinois, this guide will help you understand what’s required and how to complete it without losing your mind.

At Aceable Insurance, we make compliance surprisingly doable (and even kind of awesome). Here’s what you need to know.

What Are the CE Requirements in Illinois?

To keep your insurance license active in Illinois, producers must complete:

• 24 hours of continuing education every 2 years
• Includes 3 hours of ethics training 
• 21 elective hours can be completed via self-paced online, classroom, or webinar courses

This is a heads-up that all continuing education (CE) must be completed before your license renewal deadline. If you miss the mark, your license could be suspended or revoked.

You can check your CE status anytime through the Illinois Insurance Producer Portal.

How to Pick the Right CE Provider

Not all CE providers are created equal. Here’s what to look for:

• IDOI-Approved: Only choose providers officially approved by the Illinois Department of Insurance
  

• Flexible Formats: Webinars, mobile self-study, and downloadable materials
  

• Built-in Support: Look for providers who handle reporting to the state, send reminders, and offer live help when you need it

Make CE Work for You (Not the Other Way Around)

CE isn’t just a box to check. Done right, it’s a career boost. Here’s how to get the most out of it:

• Don’t cram last-minute: Spread out your learning and make it manageable
  

• Choose courses that apply to real life: Think client communication, claims handling, or ethics case studies
  

• Engage with live webinars: You'll get instructor insights and bonus clarity during Q&A
  

• Use interactive tools: Providers like Aceable include quizzes and career resources to help you retain what matters
  

Level Up With CE

CE isn’t just about checking a compliance box. It’s about:

• Sharpening your skills in key areas like annuities, flood insurance, or long-term care
  

• Exploring new license lines or specialties
  

• Earning certificates that boost your resume
  

Avoid These Common CE Mistakes

First-timers, take note:

• Know your renewal deadline, it’s tied to your birth month and license issue year
  

• Finish early, complete, and report your CE at least 10 days before your renewal
  

Ready to Knock Out CE the Smart Way?

At Aceable Insurance, staying compliant shouldn’t feel complicated or a waste of time. Whether you're just getting started or brushing up for another renewal, we've built our CE experience to work with your schedule, not against it.

Take a look around, explore your options, and find the path that makes the most sense for your goals.