What to Do After You Pass the Pennsylvania Insurance Exam

Step 1: Submit Your License Application 

The moment you pass your Pennsylvania insurance exam, you're eligible to apply for your producer license. You can submit a license application online through Sircon or NIPR immediately after passing the exam. Many successful candidates use the kiosk right at the PSI testing center to submit their application before leaving the building.

Application Fees:

The Pennsylvania Department of Insurance charges different fees for resident and non-resident licenses, as well as for individual and business entity licenses. Check current fees on the PA Insurance Department website before applying.

Pro Tip: Apply the same day you pass your exam. Pennsylvania gives you up to 12 months to apply after passing, but delaying only postpones your ability to start earning. Plus, your exam knowledge is fresh if any questions arise during the application process.

Step 2: Register for Fingerprinting Immediately

Here's where many new agents stumble: fingerprinting must happen AFTER you pass your exam and submit your application. Any fingerprint results received without a corresponding license application will not be accepted, and individuals will be required to resubmit their fingerprints and repay the fingerprinting fee.

Fingerprinting Process:

1. Register online at the IdentoGO website using service code 1KGBGJ
2. Schedule your appointment at one of Pennsylvania's many IdentoGO locations
3. Bring required documents: Valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or military ID)
4. Pay the fee: Current fingerprinting fees are listed on the IdentoGO website. Payment must be made at the scanning center.

Important: Credit cards, debit cards, money orders, and certified checks are accepted. No cash or personal checks.

Step 3: Complete Background Check Requirements

Pennsylvania takes background checks seriously. The state uses IdentoGO's LiveScan technology to capture your fingerprints electronically and submit them to both state and federal databases. With LiveScan fingerprinting, there is no ink or card. Your fingerprints are "rolled" across a glass plate and scanned. It is faster, cleaner and more accurate than the old ink-and-roll method.

What They're Checking:

• Criminal history at state and federal levels
• Any disqualifying convictions
• Character and fitness for insurance licensing

If you have concerns about your background, Pennsylvania offers a Pre-Licensing Program that can provide guidance before you invest time and money in the full licensing process.

Step 4: Track Your Application Status

After submitting your application and completing fingerprinting, your application enters the review process. The Pennsylvania Department of Insurance processes applications as quickly as possible, but timing can vary based on volume and completeness of your submission.

How to Check Status:

• Log into your Sircon or NIPR account
• Check the Pennsylvania Department of Insurance website
• Contact the department at 717-787-3840 if needed

Most clean applications with completed fingerprinting are processed within 1-2 weeks, though it can take longer during busy periods.

Step 5: Print Your License and Get Appointed

Once your license has been issued, you may print your license. Please be advised that the Department no longer mails licenses. You'll need to log into the state system to download and print your official license.

Next Steps After Licensing:

1. Get appointed with insurance carriers - You need appointments to represent specific companies
2. Join an agency or go independent - Many new agents start with established agencies for training and support
3. Complete any additional training - Some products require extra certifications

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Fingerprinting Too Early

The biggest mistake new agents make is scheduling fingerprinting before passing their exam. This wastes time and money since you'll have to redo the entire process.

2. Delaying Your Application

While you have 12 months to apply after passing, waiting serves no purpose. Insurance careers are built on momentum - keep yours going by applying immediately. For those becoming an insurance agent with no experience, maintaining momentum is especially crucial.

3. Forgetting About Continuing Education

Your education doesn't stop with licensing. Pennsylvania requires 24 hours of continuing education every two years, including specific requirements for ethics and flood insurance (for P&C agents).

Special Considerations for Different License Types

Life and Health Agents

If you passed the Life and Health exam, you may need additional training to sell specific products:

• Long-Term Care: 8-hour initial training required
• Annuities: Special suitability training mandated

Property and Casualty Agents

P&C agents must complete:

• Flood Insurance Training: 3-hour NFIP course by first renewal
• Ethics CE: 3 hours required as part of renewal

Timeline Expectations

Here's a realistic timeline from exam pass to active agent:

Day 1: Pass exam, submit application Day 2-3: Schedule and complete fingerprinting Week 1-2: Application processing and background check Week 2-3: Receive license approval, print license Week 3-4: Get appointed with carriers, begin selling

Why Speed Matters in Pennsylvania

The Pennsylvania insurance market is competitive, with opportunities in both urban centers like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, and underserved rural areas. Pennsylvania's insurance market continues to evolve with recent regulatory changes that benefit both agents and consumers. The faster you complete your licensing process, the sooner you can:

• Start earning commissions
• Build your client base
• Gain real-world experience
• Establish yourself in your chosen market

For those wondering how to become an insurance agent with no experience, completing these post-exam steps efficiently is crucial to launching your new career.

Maximizing Your New License

Once licensed, focus on:

1. Choosing Your Niche

Pennsylvania's diverse economy offers opportunities in:

• Personal lines (auto, home)
• Commercial insurance
• Life and health products
• Specialty markets

2. Building Your Skills

Consider how to study for and pass additional insurance exams to expand your offerings.

3. Understanding Earning Potential

Research shows the best-paying jobs in insurance often go to agents with multiple licenses and specializations.

Resources for New Pennsylvania Agents

State Resources:

• Pennsylvania Insurance Department: 717-787-3840
• Website: insurance.pa.gov
• Address: 1209 Strawberry Square, Harrisburg, PA 17120

Industry Resources:

• Professional associations for networking
• Carrier training programs
• Mentorship opportunities

Conclusion

Passing your Pennsylvania insurance exam is a significant achievement, but it's just the beginning. By following these steps promptly and avoiding common pitfalls, you'll transition smoothly from test-taker to licensed professional. Remember, the insurance industry rewards those who take initiative - start your post-exam checklist today and launch your rewarding career in Pennsylvania insurance.