How to become an insurance agent in New York
New York insurance agents are licensed by the New York State Department of Financial Services (DFS). Here is what it takes to work as a licensed insurance agent in New York, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Part of the state's website could not be reached when we checked, so some details come from New York law and official forms. Confirm them on the official page before you apply.
Who can become an insurance agent in New York?
- At least 18 years old
- Complete the required pre-licensing course
- Pass the New York State exam within 2 years before applying
New York insurance agent license requirements
| State license | Yes. The state insurance regulator issues resident insurance producer licenses. |
|---|---|
| Licensed by | New York State Department of Financial Services (DFS) |
| License name | Insurance Agent (Life, Accident and Health, Property/Casualty, or Personal Lines); a separate Broker license is also available |
| Education or training | Required: Life 20 hours; Accident and Health 20 hours; Life, Accident and Health 40 hours; Property/Casualty 90 hours; Personal Lines 40 hours. |
| Exam | PSI Services administers all New York insurance licensing exams. Apply within two years of passing. |
| License term | Up to two years; terms end on your birthday in years matching your birth year (odd or even). |
| Continuing education | 15 credits to renew, including at least 1 hour each of Insurance Law, ethics and professionalism, and diversity, inclusion and elimination of bias (plus flood training for property/casualty licensees). CE applies once a license has been in effect more than 2 years. |
How much does it cost?
| Individual agent or broker license (New York resident) | $80 |
|---|
Fees as listed by the state. Schools, courses, exam prep, insurance and equipment cost extra and vary by provider.
Steps to become an insurance agent in New York
- Complete the approved pre-licensing course for your line
- Schedule and pass the New York exam with PSI
- Apply online through NY LINX within two years of passing
- Pay the licensing fee
- Renew every term and complete CE once required
Apply on the official New York site
How do you check an insurance agent's license in New York?
- Search the name or license number on the official New York insurance agent license lookup.
- Check that the status is active and the name matches the person or company you're hiring.
- Ask how long they've been licensed and whether any complaints or discipline are on record.