How to become an insurance agent in Tennessee
Tennessee insurance agents are licensed by the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance, Insurance Division. Here is what it takes to work as a licensed insurance agent in Tennessee, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become an insurance agent in Tennessee?
- At least 18 years old
- Tennessee resident
- Competent, trustworthy, financially responsible and of good business reputation
- Pass the exam and a fingerprint-based TBI/FBI background check
Tennessee insurance agent license requirements
| State license | Yes. Tennessee licenses resident insurance producers by line of authority through the Department of Commerce and Insurance. |
|---|---|
| Licensed by | Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance, Insurance Division |
| License name | Resident Insurance Producer (lines: Life; Accident & Health; Property; Casualty; Personal Lines) |
| Education or training | No pre-licensing course is listed in the application steps in the official Tennessee candidate handbook; the exam is required. |
| Exam | Pearson VUE gives the exams; single-line test-center exams are $55, and the combined Property and Casualty or Life and Accident & Health exams online (OnVUE) are $80 (handbook, October 2026). |
| License term | Biennial (2 years). |
| Continuing education | 24 hours every two years, including 3 hours of ethics. |
How much does it cost?
| License application filing fee | $50 |
|---|---|
| Pearson VUE single-line exam (test center) | $55 |
| Pearson VUE combined P&C or Life and A&H exam (OnVUE) | $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 Tennessee
- Book the exam with Pearson VUE
- Pass the exam(s)
- Get fingerprinted through IdentoGO at least 2 business days before applying
- Wait 48 hours after the exam, then apply through NIPR and pay the $50 fee
- Get appointed by an insurer before selling
- Complete 24 CE hours, including 3 in ethics, each two-year period
Apply on the official Tennessee site
How do you check an insurance agent's license in Tennessee?
- Search the name or license number on the official Tennessee 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.