Last updated: February 18, 2026
How to Become an Insurance Agent in Arizona
A comprehensive step-by-step guide to passing the licensing exam, getting the license & becoming an insurance agent in Arizona
Author: Matt Williams: CLU, ChFC, CFP®
Applies to: Resident insurance producer license applicants in Arizona
Regulator: Arizona Department of Insurance and Financial Institutions (DIFI)
License application portal: NIPR / Sircon
Exam vendor: test-takers.psiexams.com/anzins
Pre-license education: Achievable.me
Study tools: TESTivity.com
Fingerprinting: Required
Typical time to get licensed in Arizona: 2–6 weeks
Approximate total cost: $180-$300
Quick note: This guide covers the Arizona licensing process. If you plan to sell in multiple states, see the section on non-resident licensing.
Step 2: Prepare for the Arizona Pre-License Exam
Even though Arizona does not require formal pre-licensing education, passing the state exam is still mandatory, and it’s not something most people want to walk into cold. The Arizona insurance exam tests a mix of:
Core insurance concepts
Product knowledge for your chosen line(s)
Arizona-specific laws and regulations
Ethics and consumer protection rules
This combination is why most successful candidates choose a state-specific exam preparation strategy, rather than relying on general insurance knowledge alone.
Option 1: Enroll in a State-Specific Pre-License Course
A structured, Arizona-specific course can be the fastest way to build confidence and stay organized. Courses offered through Achievable.me are designed to:
Align content directly to the Arizona exam outline
Break complex topics into digestible lessons
Reinforce learning with quizzes and progress tracking
Emphasize Arizona laws and testable rules that are easy to miss
This option works especially well if you prefer:
A guided study plan
Clear start-to-finish structure
Visual explanations and interactive review
Even though the course isn’t legally required in Arizona, many candidates treat it as an insurance policy against exam retakes.
Option 2: Use Stand-Alone Study Aids for Flexible Prep
If you prefer to build your own study system, stand-alone exam prep tools can be just as effective when used consistently. Study aids offered by TESTivity are commonly used to reinforce learning and sharpen test-day readiness, including:
Flash cards for quick recall of definitions and rules
Exam simulators to practice pacing and question style
Audio reinforcement for learning during commutes or workouts
Arizona-specific study guides focused on state laws and regulations
This approach works well if you:
Already have some insurance knowledge
Learn best through repetition and practice questions
Want to focus heavily on test performance and timing
Many candidates combine both approaches, using a course for foundational learning and stand-alone tools for final exam prep.
Arizona is more flexible than many states. Pre-licensing education is not legally required to sit for the insurance exam. However, the exam is still comprehensive, and most candidates choose to complete an exam prep or pre-licensing course to improve their chances of passing on the first attempt.
Think of it this way: Arizona lets you skip training wheels, but the road still has curves.
Arizona’s flexibility can be misleading. While the state allows you to skip pre-licensing education, the exam itself does not go easy. Most exam failures happen because candidates:
Underestimate state-specific law questions
Don’t practice with timed exams
Try to memorize instead of understanding how concepts apply
Preparing properly before scheduling your exam saves time, money, and frustration.
A pre-licensing education course greatly increases your chance of passing the exam on your first attempt, which can end up saving you both time and money in the long run. GetTheLicense.org recommends Achievable.
Recommended:
Take a look at Achievable's pre-licensing course. Their course is without question the best. It includes everything you need to pass the exam and get your insurance license.
Step 3: Register for and Schedule the Arizona Insurance Exam
Once you feel prepared, it’s time to lock in your exam date and location. Arizona uses PSI to administer insurance licensing exams for all major lines of authority.
This step is straightforward, but details matter. How exam registration works in Arizona:
Create an account with PSI
Select Arizona as your testing state
Choose the correct exam based on your line(s) of authority
Pay the exam fee
Schedule your exam date and location (or remote option, if available)
Arizona offers exams for individual lines (Life, Health, Property, Casualty) as well as combined exams such as Life & Health or Property & Casualty. Choosing a combined exam can save time if you plan to hold both licenses.
Depending on availability, you may be able to choose between:
In-person testing centers, or
Online, remote-proctored exams
In-person exams are often preferred by first-time test takers because they minimize technical issues and distractions. Remote exams offer convenience, but they come with strict rules around room setup, internet stability, and monitoring.
Before you schedule Double-check that:
Your legal name exactly matches your government-issued ID
You’ve selected the correct exam for your intended license
You’re scheduling far enough out to finish any remaining studying
Arizona candidates receive their pass/fail results immediately after completing the exam.
Step 4: Fingerprinting and Background Check
Getting your Arizona insurance license is an exciting step, but the fingerprinting process can feel a bit like a scavenger hunt if you don't have the right map. To keep your application moving smoothly, you’ll need to follow a specific two-part electronic process managed by the Arizona Department of Insurance and Financial Institutions (DIFI).
Here is a breakdown of how to get your background check done the right way.
1. Register with the Arizona DPS
Before you head to a fingerprinting site, you have to start online at the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) Public Services Portal. Think of this as your "pre-registration" for the background check.
Create an Account: You’ll need to sign up as an "Individual."
Use the Right Code: This is the most important part! To make sure your results go to the right place, you must enter a specific fingerprint code. For most insurance professionals, that code is INS-055.A.
Pay the Fee: You’ll pay a processing fee (currently $22.44) via credit card.
Save Your Reference Number: Once you pay, you’ll get a Reference Number (it starts with the letter 'A'). Write this down! You will need it to schedule your appointment and to complete your actual license application later.
2. Schedule Your "Livescan" Appointment
Arizona uses a vendor called Fieldprint for the actual digital fingerprinting (called Livescan).
Sign Up: Create an account on the Fieldprint Arizona site.
The "No Code" Trick: When asked for a code on the Fieldprint site, select "I don't have a Fieldprint Code" and continue.
Enter Your 'A' Number: This is where that Reference Number from Step 1 comes in. Enter it when prompted so Fieldprint can link your prints to your DPS application.
Book It: Pick a location and time that works for you. You’ll pay a separate scheduling fee (around $8.25) at this stage.
3. Head to the Appointment
On the day of your appointment, bring a valid, government-issued photo ID (like your driver's license or passport). The technician will scan your prints digitally—no messy ink required!
Tips for Success...
Timing Matters: It is usually best to complete your fingerprinting before you submit your final license application on NIPR, as you'll need that DPS Reference Number for the form.
No Clearance Cards: Note that the DIFI does not accept standard Arizona Fingerprint Clearance Cards; you must follow this specific insurance-related process.
Be Patient: While the digital scan is fast, the full background check can take a few weeks to process through the FBI and state databases.
If you have any criminal history, this is not the time to be vague. Arizona reviews applications individually, and clear, honest disclosure paired with fingerprints is far better than omissions that trigger follow-up investigations. Having a prior misdemeanor or felony does not automatically disqualify you, but failing to disclose it almost always causes problems. Arizona reviews applications individually.
Step 5: Submit Your Arizona Insurance License Application
After passing the exam and completing fingerprinting, submit your resident insurance producer license application through the appropriate licensing portal.
The application includes:
Selection of license type and line(s) of authority
Background and regulatory questions
Payment of the application fee
Confirmation of fingerprint submission
Any required supporting documentation
Processing time varies, but many applications are approved within a few business days to a couple of weeks if no additional review is required. Once approved, you will receive a license number.
Let's Talk About Fees
First things first: all fees are non-refundable, so you'll want to make sure everything is in order before you pay.
License Fee: The standard cost is $120.00.
Fingerprint Fee: If you’re required to submit a fingerprint card, there is an additional $22.00 processing fee for the FBI. This is separate from any fee the fingerprinting service might charge you to actually take your prints.
How to Pay
You’ve got a few easy ways to take care of the bill:
Online: If you’re applying through the National Insurance Producer Registry, you can simply use a credit card.
In Person: If you’re dropping your application off at the Licensing Section, they accept debit/credit cards, checks, or money orders.
By Mail: If you’re mailing everything in, just include a check or money order.
If you’re paying by check or money order, make sure to make it out to "Insurance Licensing Section".
Step 6: After You’re Licensed: Appointments, Agencies, and Selling Insurance
Once your application is approved, you’ll officially hold an Arizona resident insurance producer license issued by the Arizona Department of Insurance and Financial Institutions. That license gives you legal authority to sell insurance, but there’s one more practical step before you can start writing business.
Carrier appointment vs. having a license
Licensed means the state authorizes you to sell insurance
Appointed means an insurance company authorizes you to sell their products
In most cases, you must be appointed by an insurance carrier or work through an agency that already holds appointments before you can sell policies. Appointments are usually handled by the insurance company you work with; you typically do not file appointments yourself.
Independent agent vs. captive agent in Arizona
Independent agents
Work with multiple carriers, often through an agency or aggregator. More flexibility, broader product access.Captive agents
Represent a single carrier. Often receive structured training and support but with fewer product options.
Arizona licensing supports both paths. Your career ambitions will determine which direction makes more sense.
FAQs About Becoming an Insurance Agent in Arizona
Do I need a college degree to become an insurance agent in Arizona?
No. A college degree is not required. You must be at least 18 years old, pass the exam, complete fingerprinting, and meet application requirements.
Do I need a job offer before getting licensed in Arizona?
No. You can obtain your insurance license before being hired by an agency or appointed by an insurance company.
What’s the difference between being licensed and being appointed?
Licensed means the state authorizes you to sell insurance.
Appointed means an insurance company authorizes you to sell their products.
You generally need both to sell policies, but licensing comes first.
Is fingerprinting required in Arizona?
Yes. Arizona requires electronic fingerprinting and a criminal background check for resident insurance producer applicants.
Can I get an Arizona insurance license with a felony or misdemeanor?
Possibly. Arizona reviews applications individually. A criminal record does not automatically disqualify you, but failure to disclose required information can result in denial.
Can I take the Arizona insurance exam online?
In some cases, yes. Arizona may offer remote, online-proctored exams depending on availability. In-person testing centers are also available and often preferred by first-time test takers.
How long does it take to get approved after applying for the license?
If everything is complete and no additional review is required, many applications are approved within a few business days to a couple of weeks.
How long is an Arizona insurance license valid?
Arizona insurance licenses must be renewed periodically. Renewal requires paying a fee and completing required continuing education.
How long does it take to become an insurance agent in Arizona?
Most people complete the process in 2 to 6 weeks. Timing depends on how quickly you prepare for the exam, schedule testing, complete fingerprinting, and submit your license application.
Do I need pre-licensing education in Arizona?
No. Arizona does not require state-mandated pre-licensing education. However, passing the exam without preparation is difficult, so most candidates use exam prep courses or study tools.
How hard is the Arizona insurance licensing exam?
The exam is considered moderately difficult. It covers insurance concepts, product knowledge, Arizona laws, and ethics. Many first-time failures occur because candidates underestimate state-specific law questions or don’t practice timed exams.
What is the passing score for the Arizona insurance exam?
Arizona typically requires a passing score of around 70%, though the exact scoring method is determined by the exam vendor. You receive your pass/fail result immediately after completing the exam.
What happens if I fail the Arizona insurance exam?
You can retake the exam after paying the exam fee again. Arizona allows 4 retakes in a rolling (not calendar) year, but repeated failures increase cost and delay licensing, which is why exam preparation is strongly recommended.
How much does it cost to get an insurance license in Arizona?
Costs vary, but most applicants should budget for:
Exam fee
License application fee
Fingerprinting and background check fee
Optional exam prep or study materials
These fees are paid separately at different stages of the process.
What is continuing education (CE) and is it required in Arizona?
Continuing education is required to maintain your license. CE ensures agents stay current on insurance laws, ethics, and industry practices. Requirements vary based on license type and products sold.