How to Get Your Insurance License in West Virginia (2025 Guide)
West Virginia requires 20 hours of state-approved pre-licensing education per line before you sit for the Pearson VUE exam. Compare 5 WVOIC-approved courses, see full cost details, and get your WV insurance license in 4–8 weeks.
Course Cost
$110 – $300
Time to License
4 – 8 weeks
Avg WV Salary
$51,803/yr
Required Hours
20 hrs/line
West Virginia Requires 20 Pre-Licensing Hours Per Line of Authority
Unlike some states, West Virginia mandates 20 hours of approved pre-licensing education per line before you can sit for the Pearson VUE exam. Life & Health together = 40 total hours. You'll receive a Certificate of Pre-Licensing Completion (PL 789E) upon finishing, which is valid for 1 year. Additionally, WV requires self-study exams within pre-licensing courses to be closed-book and monitored by a disinterested third party — Kaplan offers an Online Proctoring Option specifically for this WV requirement.
Top 3 West Virginia Insurance Pre-Licensing Courses
1. WebCEState-ApprovedBest Value
Confirmed WVOIC state-approved — completions reported to WV OIC every business day. Combined L&H (40 hrs) from $109.95, the lowest confirmed pre-licensing price in WV. Self-study exams are closed-book per WV requirement.
From $109.95
40-hr L&H package
2. Kaplan Financial EducationOnline Proctoring
Most comprehensive WV course library with 4 tiers ($139–$349). Unique Online Proctoring Option specifically available for WV — addresses the state's monitored exam requirement. Live & OnDemand Review Class at higher tiers.
From $139
3. Xcel SolutionsState-Approved
Labeled as pre-licensing — satisfies WV's mandatory 20-hour requirement. Two tiers at $199 and $299 for combined Life & Health (40 hrs). Spanish-language option available. Recorded Review Class and Flashcards included.
From $199
Best West Virginia Insurance Pre-Licensing Courses
All 5 schools are West Virginia WVOIC-approved. Price: Low to High.
Quick Price Comparison (Course Only)
WebCE
State-ApprovedStarting at
$109.95
- WVOIC state-approved — completions reported to WVOIC every business day
- Satisfies mandatory 20-hour pre-licensing requirement per line of authority
- Combined L&H 40-hr package from $109.95 — lowest confirmed pre-licensing price
- Self-study exams are closed-book; disinterested 3rd party monitor required by WV
Available Packages (6)
WV Life, Accident and Health Exam Prep Complete (40 hrs)
- Satisfies 20-hr Life + 20-hr A&H pre-licensing requirement
- WVOIC-approved; completions reported daily
- Practice exams and comprehensive study materials
- Mobile-friendly; 90-day access
Kaplan Financial Education
Online ProctoringStarting at
$139
- Online Proctoring Option available — unique WV feature addressing monitored exam requirement
- Most comprehensive WV insurance course library (4 tiers: $139–$349)
- Live & OnDemand Review Class available at mid and top tiers
- Career Launcher includes Insurance Accelerator business-building course
Available Packages (4)
Basic
- WV Life & Health online or print course
- Study Tools (Study Plan, LEM, State Law Supplement)
- QBank practice questions + review exams
- Entry-level option for WV L&H
A.D. Banker
Starting at
$169.95
- WV Life & Health, WV Life, and WV Health lines available
- Guarantee to Pass included on all packages
- Audio-enabled and mobile-friendly content
- Live instructor Web Class available (Platinum tier)
Available Packages (3)
Silver — Online Course
- Full online course with audio support
- Unlimited chapter exams
- Simulated licensing exams
- Guarantee to Pass + Printable PDF study manual
ExamFX
Starting at
$169.95
- 94% pass rate; Readiness Exam pass guarantee
- Three tiers: Self-Study, Video Study, and Live Online
- On-Demand Video Lectures available at Video tier and above
- Interactive Learning Portal with online exam simulations
Available Packages (3)
Self-Study Package
- Interactive Learning Portal
- Online Exam Simulations
- Readiness Exam (Pass Guarantee)
- WV Life & Health course content
Xcel Solutions
State-ApprovedStarting at
$199
- Labeled as pre-licensing — satisfies WV mandatory 20-hour requirement per line
- 40-hour combined Life & Health package (20 Life + 20 Health)
- Spanish-language option available ($199)
- Recorded Review Class + Flashcards + Prepared to Pass Promise
Available Packages (2)
WV Life and Health Pre-licensing
- Satisfies 40-hr L&H pre-licensing requirement (20 Life + 20 Health)
- Proven 3-Part Training System
- Recorded Review Class included
- Flashcards + Prepared to Pass Promise
Prices verified March 2026. Prices may change. Always confirm current pricing on the school's website before enrolling.
What Is a West Virginia Insurance License?
A West Virginia insurance license is a state-issued credential required by the West Virginia Offices of the Insurance Commissioner (WVOIC) to legally sell insurance products in the state. Unlike some states, West Virginia requires 20 hours of approved pre-licensing education per line of authority before you can sit for the Pearson VUE exam. All applicants must also complete fingerprinting through IdentoGO and submit a license application via NIPR after passing.
The most common license types are the Life & Accident and Health (L&H) license (covering life insurance, annuities, health plans, and disability income) and the Property & Casualty (P&C) license (covering auto, homeowners, commercial, and liability insurance). Each line requires its own 20-hour pre-licensing course and separate Pearson VUE exam.
Life & Accident and Health
$86 exam fee · 150 questions · 2.5 hrs
20 pre-licensing hrs required · Life, annuities, health & disability
Property & Casualty
$86 exam fee · 80 questions · 1.5 hrs
20 pre-licensing hrs required · Auto, home & commercial insurance
⚠️ West Virginia's Monitored Exam Requirement
West Virginia has a unique rule: self-study exams within pre-licensing courses must be closed-book and monitored by a disinterested third party. This means you cannot complete your final pre-licensing exam alone — someone who has no financial interest in your outcome must observe you taking the closed-book exam.
What This Means in Practice
- • A colleague, family member (non-beneficiary), or employer can serve as monitor
- • The monitor must not benefit financially from your passing
- • Exam must be taken with materials closed (no notes or open book)
- • Completion is still reported to WVOIC by your provider
Kaplan's Online Proctoring Option
Kaplan offers an Online Proctoring Option specifically available for WV — this feature is not offered for most other states. It provides a formal remote proctor to fulfill WV's monitored exam requirement, making it easy to complete your pre-licensing course remotely without arranging your own monitor.
How Much Do West Virginia Insurance Agents Earn?
WV State Average
$51,803/yr
Source: Salary.com, 2025
National Median
$60,370/yr
Source: BLS, May 2024
Commission Structure
Life Insurance
- • First-year commission: 40–100% of annual premium
- • Renewal commission: 2–10% per year
- Example: $1,000/yr policy at 70% = $700 earned
Property & Casualty
- • New policy commission: 10–20% of premium
- • Renewal commission: 8–12% of premium
- Example: $1,800/yr auto at 12% = $216/policy
Salary Range by Career Stage
Entry Level
$35,000–$42,000
First 1–2 years
WV Average
$51,803
State average salary
Top Producers
$80,000–$120,000+
Independent agents
Top WV Insurance Markets
Underserved market advantage: West Virginia has many rural and underserved areas where independent agents can build strong books of business with limited competition.
Is a West Virginia Insurance License Worth It?
👍 Pros
- + Low Competition: WV is an underserved insurance market — fewer agents competing for clients in rural counties gives independent agents a real advantage.
- + Reasonable Entry Costs: Total licensing costs of $287–$600 are manageable, and the mandatory pre-licensing education gives you a solid foundation before the exam.
- + Proximity to DC Suburbs: The Eastern Panhandle (Martinsburg area) is WV's fastest-growing region, benefiting from proximity to the Washington, DC metro area with higher income demographics.
- + Strong Rural Demand: West Virginians in rural areas often lack adequate insurance coverage — agents who serve these communities can build loyal, long-term client relationships.
👎 Cons
- - Mandatory Pre-Licensing: 20 hours per line adds time and cost before you can sit for the exam. Getting both L&H and P&C requires 40 total pre-licensing hours.
- - Monitored Exam Requirement: Self-study exams must be closed-book and observed by a disinterested third party — an extra logistical step compared to most states.
- - Below-National Salary: WV's average agent salary ($51,803) is notably below the national median ($60,370), reflecting the state's lower cost of living and income base.
- - Smaller Market Size: West Virginia's relatively small and declining population limits the overall size of the insurance market compared to larger states.
How to Get Your West Virginia Insurance License
Choose Your Line of Authority
West Virginia offers licenses for: Life, Accident and Health (Sickness), Property, Casualty, Property and Casualty (combined), Personal Lines, Variable Life and Annuities, Surplus Lines, Title, and more. Most agents start with Life & Health or Property & Casualty. Each line requires its own 20-hour pre-licensing course and separate Pearson VUE exam.
Complete 20 Hours of Pre-Licensing Education
West Virginia requires 20 approved pre-licensing hours per line of authority through a WVOIC-approved provider. WebCE and Xcel Solutions are confirmed state-approved providers. Important: WV self-study exams must be closed-book and monitored by a disinterested third party. Kaplan offers an Online Proctoring Option to handle this requirement remotely. Upon completion, you'll receive a Certificate of Pre-Licensing Completion (PL 789E) valid for 1 year.
Pass the West Virginia Insurance Licensing Exam
Schedule your exam through Pearson VUE at pearsonvue.com/wv/insurance or call (800) 274-2614. Pay the $86 exam fee. Achieve a scaled score of 70 to pass. The L&H exam is approximately 150 questions (2.5 hours); the P&C exam is 80 questions (1.5 hours). You receive your score immediately after completing the exam.
Complete Fingerprinting via IdentoGO
Schedule fingerprinting through IdentoGO at identogo.com and pay the $45.75 fee. Fingerprints are submitted to the West Virginia State Police for a criminal background check required by the WV OIC. Start this process early — it can run concurrently with your study time to save overall time.
Submit Your License Application via NIPR
Apply online through NIPR.com. Pay the $55 application fee plus $5.60 NIPR transaction fee. Include your Certificate of Pre-Licensing Completion (PL 789E). You must apply within 1 year of passing the exam or your certificate will expire. Processing typically takes 5–10 business days.
Receive Your License and Start Selling
Once the WV OIC approves your application, your license is issued. You are now authorized to sell insurance in West Virginia. Your renewal date is the last day of your birth month every 2 years. Complete 24 CE hours (including 3 ethics hours) before each renewal. Consider E&O (errors & omissions) insurance — required by most agencies and professional best practice.
West Virginia Insurance License Requirements
Eligibility Requirements
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Resident or non-resident applicants may apply
- Valid Social Security Number or FEIN required
- Must pass fingerprint-based background check (IdentoGO — $45.75)
- No college degree required
Pre-Licensing Education
- 20 hours required per line of authority
- Life & Health together = 40 total pre-licensing hours
- Must complete WVOIC-approved provider course
- Self-study exams: closed-book, disinterested 3rd party monitor required
- Certificate of Pre-Licensing Completion (PL 789E) valid for 1 year
Exam Requirements
- Pearson VUE exam — in-person at testing centers
- L&H: ~150 questions, 2.5 hours · P&C: 80 questions, 1.5 hours
- Passing score: scaled score of 70
- Exam fee: $86 per attempt, per line
- Schedule at pearsonvue.com/wv/insurance
Application & Licensing
- Apply via NIPR within 1 year of exam date
- $55 state license application fee + $5.60 NIPR transaction fee
- Submit PL 789E pre-licensing certificate with application
- Processing: typically 5–10 business days
- 24 CE hours every 2 years (incl. 3 hrs ethics) to renew
West Virginia Insurance License Cost Breakdown
Here's the complete breakdown of what it costs to get your West Virginia insurance license:
| Cost Item | Amount | Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-licensing course (20 hrs per line) | $109.95–$299 | Required |
| Pearson VUE Exam Fee | $86 | Required |
| Fingerprinting (IdentoGO) | $45.75 | Required |
| License Application (NIPR) | $55 + $5.60 | Required |
| Estimated Total | $287–$600+ |
All state and government fees are non-refundable. Course costs vary by provider and package. Fingerprinting required for all first-time applicants.
The West Virginia Insurance Exam — What to Expect
Life & Health Exam
- Questions: ~150
- Time limit: 2.5 hours (150 minutes)
- Passing score: 70 (scaled score)
- Fee: $86 per attempt
- Provider: Pearson VUE
- Pre-req: 20 hrs pre-licensing required
Property & Casualty Exam
- Questions: 80
- Time limit: 1.5 hours (90 minutes)
- Passing score: 70 (scaled score)
- Fee: $86 per attempt
- Provider: Pearson VUE
- Pre-req: 20 hrs pre-licensing required
Life & Health Exam Topics
- Life Insurance Basics
- Annuities and Variable Products
- Health Insurance Concepts
- Disability Income Insurance
- Policy provisions and riders
- Federal insurance laws and regulations
- West Virginia Insurance Statutes and Regulations
P&C Exam Topics
- Property Insurance Basics
- Casualty Insurance Basics
- Homeowners Policies
- Auto Insurance Policies
- Commercial Lines coverage
- Claims procedures
- West Virginia Insurance Laws and Regulations
💡 Pearson VUE Exam Tips for WV
Bring two valid government-issued IDs — at least one must have a photo and signature. You receive your score immediately after completing the exam. If you fail, you may retake the exam but each attempt requires a new $86 fee. Focus extra time on WV-specific statutes — state law and regulations are heavily tested and your pre-licensing course will cover this material in depth.
How Long Does It Take to Get a West Virginia Insurance License?
3 – 5 weeks
Fast Track
Study 6–8 hrs/day including 20 pre-lic hrs
5 – 7 weeks
Part-Time
Evenings and weekends
6 – 10 weeks
Casual Pace
Weekends only, self-paced
| Step | Activity | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Choose your line(s) of authority | 1 day |
| 2 | Complete 20-hour pre-licensing course (WVOIC-approved) | 1–3 weeks |
| 3 | Schedule & complete IdentoGO fingerprinting (can run concurrently) | 1–2 weeks |
| 4 | Schedule & pass Pearson VUE exam ($86) | 1–2 weeks |
| 5 | Submit license application via NIPR ($55 + $5.60) | 1–3 days |
| 6 | WV OIC reviews and issues license | 5–10 business days |
Fingerprinting can be done in parallel while completing your pre-licensing course to save overall time. Pre-licensing education is mandatory in WV — factor in 2–4 weeks for your 20-hour course.
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Explore More Licensed Careers
Expand to nearby states or explore other licensed careers in West Virginia.
West Virginia Insurance License Reciprocity
West Virginia participates in reciprocal licensing with states that maintain reciprocity with WV. If you hold a valid license in another state and your home state has a reciprocal agreement with West Virginia, you may qualify to apply for a non-resident WV insurance license without retaking the state exam.
To apply for a non-resident license, submit your application through NIPR.com. You will need your home-state license number, which must be in good standing. The application fee is $55 + $5.60 NIPR transaction fee.
Non-Resident License Details: For current reciprocal state agreements and application requirements, contact the WV OIC Licensing and Education Division at wvinsurance.gov/Divisions_Licensing or call (304) 558-3354.
West Virginia Insurance License Renewal
West Virginia insurance licenses must be renewed every 2 years. Your renewal date is the last day of your birth month, every 2 years. To renew, you must complete 24 hours of continuing education (CE) per renewal cycle, including at least 3 hours of ethics. Course completions are reported to Sircon.
2 yrs
Renewal Cycle
24 hrs
CE Required
3 hrs
Ethics (included)
Carryover: Up to 6 excess CE credit hours from one cycle can be carried forward to the next renewal period. For renewal fees, approved CE providers, and deadlines, visit wvinsurance.gov/Divisions_Licensing or call (304) 558-3354.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many pre-licensing hours are required for a West Virginia insurance license?
West Virginia requires 20 hours of approved pre-licensing education per line of authority. If you want both a Life & Health and a Property & Casualty license, you'll need 40 total pre-licensing hours (20 for each line). Upon completion, you'll receive a Certificate of Pre-Licensing Completion (PL 789E) that must be submitted with your license application. Your certificate is valid for 1 year.
How much does it cost to get an insurance license in West Virginia?
Total costs typically range from $287 to $600+. The breakdown: pre-licensing course ($109.95–$299 per line), Pearson VUE exam fee ($86 per attempt), NIPR application fee ($55 + $5.60 transaction fee), and IdentoGO fingerprinting ($45.75). Getting both L&H and P&C licenses will increase costs due to doubled course and exam fees.
Does West Virginia require fingerprinting for insurance licensing?
Yes. West Virginia requires all new insurance producer license applicants to submit fingerprints for a criminal background check. Fingerprinting is done through IdentoGO (identogo.com) at a cost of $45.75. Fingerprints are submitted to the West Virginia State Police for processing and reviewed by the WV OIC.
How long does it take to get a West Virginia insurance license?
Expect 4–8 weeks total. You must complete 20 pre-licensing hours (typically 2–4 weeks), pass the Pearson VUE exam, schedule and complete fingerprinting via IdentoGO, and wait for the WV OIC to process your application (typically 5–10 business days). Full-time study can shorten this to about 3–5 weeks.
What is the passing score for the West Virginia insurance exam?
West Virginia uses a scaled scoring system. You need a scaled score of 70 to pass. Pearson VUE uses an equating process to ensure fairness across different versions of the exam, so the raw number of correct answers needed may vary slightly depending on your specific test version. You receive your score immediately after completing the exam.
How many questions are on the West Virginia insurance exam?
The West Virginia Life & Health exam consists of approximately 150 questions with a 2.5-hour time limit. The Property & Casualty exam has 80 questions with a 1.5-hour time limit. All exams are administered by Pearson VUE at authorized testing centers.
How much do insurance agents earn in West Virginia?
The average insurance agent salary in West Virginia is approximately $51,803 per year (Salary.com 2026), which is below the national median of $60,370. However, WV is an underserved market — independent agents willing to serve rural areas and smaller cities can build strong books of business and significantly boost income through commissions. Charleston, Huntington, and the fast-growing Eastern Panhandle near DC offer the strongest market opportunities.
How many continuing education hours are required in West Virginia?
West Virginia requires 24 CE hours per 2-year renewal cycle, including 3 mandatory ethics hours. Your renewal date is the last day of your birth month every 2 years. Up to 6 excess CE credit hours can be carried forward to the next renewal period. Course completions are reported to Sircon.
Do I have to complete my West Virginia license application within a certain timeframe?
Yes. Once you pass the West Virginia insurance licensing exam, you must apply for and receive your license within 1 year of the exam date. If you don't apply within 1 year, your pre-licensing certificate (PL 789E) expires and you'll need to retake the 20-hour pre-licensing course before you can reapply.
Can I take the West Virginia insurance pre-licensing course online?
Yes. State-approved providers including WebCE, Kaplan, Xcel Solutions, A.D. Banker, and ExamFX all offer online self-paced courses. However, West Virginia has a unique requirement: self-study exams within pre-licensing courses must be closed-book and monitored by a disinterested third party. Kaplan offers a specific Online Proctoring Option for WV that addresses this requirement.
Income Disclaimer: Salary figures are estimates based on publicly available data and vary significantly by state, market, experience level, employer type, and individual effort. Past or average earnings are not a guarantee of future results. CertLaunch makes no income guarantees of any kind.
Sources:
Licensing requirements, exam fees, and course availability change frequently. Always verify current requirements with your state licensing board before enrolling or submitting any application. Learn how we source our data.