Best Insurance Licensing Courses

Written by: Ethan Peyton

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Best Insurance Licensing Courses

Choosing the right insurance licensing course is essential to ensuring you have the knowledge needed to pass the exam on your first attempt and start a successful career in the insurance industry.

In our Best Insurance Licensing Courses article, we’ll guide you through the five best options available to you in 2024, as well as explore the pros and cons of each to help you choose the course that aligns best with your needs.

The 5 Best Insurance Licensing Courses

In the table below, you’ll find a brief overview of the key features of each of the top insurance licensing courses.

Best Insurance Licensing Courses Top Features
Kaplan Financial 4.8/5 BEST OVERALL COURSE
  • Live classes with qualified instructors
  • More than 650 practice questions
  • Over 90% pass rate across all insurance lines
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ExamFX 4.4/5
  • A la carte customization
  • Money-back guarantee
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A.D. Banker 4.1/5
  • Mix of self-paced and instructor-guided learning
  • Tiered course packages provide budget-friendly options
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WebCE 3.8/5
  • Add-ons to enhance job prospects
  • Digital flashcards for targeted module preparation
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Securities Training Corporation 3.6/5
  • Great options for both visual and interactive learners
  • Study schedule helps students stay organized
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Kaplan Education Company 4.8/5

$139

4.8 out of 5 stars

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Kaplan is our top-rated pre-licensing insurance course, with great pass rates and a money-back-guarantee.

1. Kaplan Financial: Best Overall Course

One of the most recognized names in the industry, Kaplan Financial provides quality insurance pre-licensing education, valuable learning tools and resources, impressive test pass rates, and budget-friendly pricing.

Kaplan Financial is our number one recommendation based on their pricing, course packages that include valuable learning tools, and the performance of their students.

Kaplan Financial Pros

  • Flexible Course Format: Kaplan Financial has three different course options, with everything from self-directed study to instructor-led sessions online. All of the learning tools and modules are available when you need them, making this a great choice for students who need flexible scheduling
  • Teacher-Student Engagement: On all of Kaplan Financial’s courses, even its lowest priced options, you’ll be able to directly interact with your teachers. This is a fantastic feature for quickly obtaining feedback as well as answers to any specific doubts you may have regarding the course material
  • Comprehensive Question Bank: One of our favorite learning tools included with Kaplan insurance pre licensing courses is its database of over 650 study questions organized by topic. You can track your mastery of the content as you quiz yourself
  • Time Tracking: As you work through the modules, Kaplan provides a time tracking system to monitor your progress. This is a great tool to keep you on track to be prepared by the day of your exam
  • Affordable Options: While some of Kaplan Financial’s more premium options can be a little pricey, its more basic courses offer a reliable alternative for students on a budget

Kaplan Financial Cons

  • Forced Progression: Even in the self-directed courses, students are required to finish all aspects of a module before being able to move onto the next one. This may frustrate more disciplined learners who are looking for a more autonomous approach to studying.

Final Overview

There are a number of key benefits to choosing an insurance licensing course from Kaplan Financial. Overall, the primary reason we awarded this course provider the top spot is due to the stellar performance of Kaplan Financial graduates on their state licensing exams — boasting an overall pass rate of more than 90% across all insurance licensing exam lines.

While its offerings may be slightly less budget-friendly than those of competitors, we believe students get far more than they pay for, bearing in mind the wealth of comprehensive resources, tools and professional instructors they’ll receive.

Recommended Course

Interested in getting started? We recommend Kaplan Financial’s insurance preparation courses, which come with more than 650 study questions, one-on-one tutoring, and interactive online lessons.

4.8 out of 5 starsKaplan Education Company ($139)

To find out more about how these courses could help you, check out our full Kaplan Financial Review.

2. ExamFX: Best for Flexibility

If you’re looking for flexibility from your insurance course, ExamFX is the choice for you: it has four different packages with everything from a self-paced course to in-person learning. While it is one of the pricier options, its range of choices make it well-suited for a number of students.

If multiple course options are essential for you, you will love all of the flexibility offered through ExamFX, every student will find something that works for their schedule from this top insurance licensing education provider.

ExamFX Pros

  • Four Package Options: ExamFX offers more course options than any other provider that we reviewed. They are also the only provider to have an in-person learning option, which is invaluable for a number of students
  • Multiple Study Tools: If you opt for a lower tier package but still want some of the most popular study tools, you can purchase them a la carte. This customization helps students get exactly the tools that they need to study for and pass the state insurance licensing exam
  • Guarantee Exam: In addition to multiple practice exams, ExamFX has a Guarantee Exam at the end of each course. If you score at least an 80% on this test, the company guarantees that you will pass your state exam within three days or they will give you a full refund
  • Interactive Study Calendar: To ensure an optimal study experience, ExamFX offers its students a completely personalized study plan that’s tailored from beginning to end — this allows you to maintain a steady learning pace that fits perfectly with your timetable

ExamFX Cons

  • Price: ExamFX is one of the most expensive insurance education providers on the market, likely because they have the most comprehensive course options available. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly insurance licensing course, you may be limited to just the lower-tier packages
  • Study Aids Not Customizable: Combining package options with a la carte tools can create a custom study experience, but the materials themselves are not customizable. This means that you can’t isolate the individual topics that you want to focus on as you go through the modules
  • Limited Access Period: This course is only available to students for a short two-month window, after which your access will end. While this won’t be a problem for quick learners or those who enjoy cramming, students that prefer to study at a slower pace might find one of the other options on this list a better fit

Final Overview

If price isn’t a factor for you and you’re a quick learner, the courses offered by ExamFX provide some of the best choices, as well as one of the only in-person learning options available.

The study tools are also top-notch, including their multiple practice tests, flashcards, study guides, and video and audio lessons — though it’s important to keep in mind that not all resources are included in the more basic packages and that in-person learning options vary by state and availability.

While the tools and interface of the ExamFX course are some of the best out there, the higher cost and limited access may be enough to deter some students who don’t need all of its extra features.

For a more detailed look into this insurance pre licensing course, see our full ExamFX Review.

3. A.D. Banker – Best for Self-Motivated Learners

Education provider A.D. Banker is known for their comprehensive learning packages, with options for online courses and live virtual classes. Their a la carte learning tools are a little bit expensive when purchased alone, but you can get great savings if you opt for one of the popular packages.

All of their packages require students to complete the online modules and pass the Certification Exam, so this is a great option for those who can be disciplined to pace themselves and study the material.

A.D. Banker Pros

  • Web Class Option: If you want to pace yourself through the required modules but still want an instructor to help explain key concepts, the Web Class option combines the flexibility of self-directed learning with the benefits of a live instructor, many of whom are insurance professionals
  • Packages Save Money: Take advantage of savings through A.D. Banker’s course packages. With three tiers available in both the Online Course option and Web Class option, purchasing a package is great for your budget compared to a la carte
  • A La Carte Learning Tools: All of the resources available through A.D. Banker can be purchased a la carte. This means that even if you completed your requirements through another provider or went with a lower tier package from A.D. Banker initially, you can still get their popular flashcards or study guides closer to test time

A.D. Banker Cons

  • Jargon in Online Course: There are a lot of industry terms throughout the online insurance course. If you are new to insurance, you may be happier with a package that includes access to an instructor, such as the Web Class, to help make sense of the vocabulary
  • Need to Be Self-Motivated: All students who take an insurance licensing class through A.D. Banker have to complete the self-paced online modules to satisfy their state’s insurance licensing pre-education requirement. If you struggle to keep yourself on track, you may be happier with a company that provides an instructor-facilitated course
  • Learning Tools Are Expensive: While great resources, the learning tools are pricey when purchased a la carte. Your best option financially is to buy a higher tier package that includes everything that you may want or need as you study

Final Overview

This is a great course option for students who are looking to be able to design their own program for study, as it grants you the flexibility to buy course materials separately or in various package options. Whether you prefer self-paced learning, live online classes, or face-to-face instruction, this course has you covered.

However, one of the biggest advantages of this course provider, its a la carte learning tools, is also one of its biggest downsides. While the price point for the lower tier course options is fantastic, expect to pay far more than other popular providers, such as Kaplan Financial, to purchase materials a la carte.

These courses work best for students who are self-motivated and can keep their studying on track to learn everything they need.

For more information on this, check out our full A.D. Banker Review.

4. WebCE: Best for Extended Access

Out of all the course options reviewed on this list, WebCE offers its students the longest access to its content without having to pay again — giving you up to a year to use its study materials.

This makes WebCE ideal for students looking for a more relaxed pace to work their way through its comprehensive resources and practice exams crafted by seasoned insurance experts.

WebCE Pros

  • EXCEED Reinforcements: This feature, which is offered as part of WebCE’s Exam Prep Plus Packages, is an extra module you can opt to take alongside your exam materials that’s designed to boost your expertise in your field. This not only helps you ace your insurance licensing exam but also significantly improves your job prospects afterwards
  • FlashTutor: To help reinforce content, WebCE offers FlashTutor courses containing a digital flashcard program for you to prepare for specific modules. This is a convenient and effective way to consolidate this knowledge and get ready for the exam
  • Physical Workbook: WebCE provides an option to purchase a printed workbook for a minimal extra charge, allowing you to continue your studies offline. This gives you the chance to take a break from your computer or phone screen while ensuring you don’t miss out on any study sessions

WebCE Cons

  • Limited State Availability: In addition to price variation when it comes to specific states, certain portions of the course’s content aren’t available for students in some states — including Alaska, Hawaii, and North Carolina
  • Disappointing Extras: While WebCE’s FlashTutor and additional workbook can seem like attractive extras, a number of students have complained of their underwhelming nature. While they will undoubtedly help you to pass, they’re a little gimmicky and could never replace actual tutoring

Final Overview

In conclusion, WebCE stands out as a comprehensive and flexible option for those pursuing insurance licensing. With the unique advantage of offering one year of access to its content, it’s ideal for students who need a more adaptable schedule.

However, it’s important to note the limitations regarding state availability and the mixed reception of some of its additional resources.

Despite these drawbacks, WebCE’s extended access period and specialized study tools make it a compelling choice. If you’re balancing your studies with a full-time job or other personal commitments, this course provider deserves your consideration.

5. Securities Training Corporation: Best Supplementary Material

While largely known for their FINRA study resources, Securities Training Corporation (STC) also offers a range of courses designed to help students excel in their insurance pre-licensing exams.

STC’s expertise in providing licensing courses shines through in its offering of courses for insurance professionals, standing out in particular for its commitment to high-quality, comprehensive study materials that thoroughly address the needs of exam takers.

Securities Training Corporation Pros

  • On-Demand Training: STC’s On-Demand Training caters specifically to visual learners through pre-recorded video lectures covering each subject, which allows for a visually engaging learning experience
  • Instructor Hotline: The Instructor Hotline and the Premier Plus package offer direct communication with teachers and live classroom sessions — making them ideal for students with a more interactive learning style
  • Included Study Schedule: STC removes most of the guesswork associated with insurance career preparation by including a recommended study schedule and offering state-specific certification exams as required. This structured support ensures learners stay on track and are well-prepared for any legal requirements in their jurisdiction

Securities Training Corporation Cons

  • Fixed Course Structure: While beneficial to some students, the structured nature of STC’s courses might not accommodate students who prefer a more flexible, self-directed learning style. If you’re looking for a more customizable study plan, you might find this course too rigid
  • Depth of Expertise: Despite the high quality and reliability of its courses, STC’s primary specialization in securities training means it may lack the depth of expertise in insurance exam prep when compared to other providers

Final Overview

Securities Training Corporation (STC) presents a compelling option for individuals preparing for insurance licensing exams, particularly for those who benefit from visually engaging materials and direct instructor interaction.

The on-demand training, complete with pre-recorded video lectures, caters well to visual learners, while the Instructor Hotline and live sessions in the Premier Plus package are invaluable resources for students seeking a more interactive learning environment.

However, the fixed course structure may not suit everyone, especially those who prefer a more flexible, self-directed approach to their studies. Additionally, STC’s primary focus on securities training could suggest a potential limitation in the depth of its expertise in the insurance licensing arena when compared to other providers on this list, who largely specialize in insurance education.

Best Insurance Licensing Courses FAQ

Which insurance license is the hardest to get?

Generally, licenses that cover more complex products, such as those involving investment components (e.g., life insurance with securities) are considered harder due to the additional federal regulations and exams involved. We discuss this topic in greater detail in our How to Get Your Insurance License article.

How much does it cost to get a life insurance license in NY?

It costs $80 for a Life and Health insurance license in New York to be issued for a licensing period of a year or more; this fee reduces to $40 if a license is issued for less than a year. However, several other additional factors can add to this cost, including the cost of the associated exam and pre-licensing course you select.

What is the best online insurance school?

The best online insurance school depends on your learning style, budget, and the type of insurance license you’re pursuing. Many of our readers prefer courses that offer comprehensive exam prep materials, practice exams, and support. For reviews and recommendations guided by past students, check out our Best Insurance Licensing Courses article.

Which insurance license makes the most money?

While earnings can vary widely in the insurance industry, licenses in areas with higher premiums and commissions, such as life insurance and property and casualty insurance, generally have the potential for higher earnings. With that said, success in any area will also depend on your individual sales and networking skills, plus effort.

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