---
title: "What Is State Exam? Definition | Epic Life Glossary"
description: "The state exam is a test that a person must pass to earn a producer license in a state. It covers insurance basics, state law, and ethics for the..."
url: https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/state-exam
publisher: Epic Life Group
apply: https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/apply
quote: https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/get-a-quote
---

Agent licensing and appointments

# State Exam

The state exam is a test that a person must pass to earn a producer license in a state. It covers insurance basics, state law, and ethics for the license type, such as life.

## Why it matters

Most states use a testing vendor and require a score above a set passing mark. A failed attempt usually means a wait, a retake fee, or both. Study time and exam fees differ by state. After passing, the applicant finishes the license application, fingerprints, and fees. Many nonresident applicants skip the exam if they already passed in their home state.

Source: [naic.org](https://content.naic.org/insurance-topics/producer-licensing)

[Read next, for agentsHow life insurance licensing works across multiple states](https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/careers/licensing)

## Where we use this term

-   [Your first 90 days as a telesales life insurance agent: a week-by-week ramp](https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/guides/first-90-days-as-a-telesales-agent)
-   [How to join an IMO: the questions to ask before you sign](https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/guides/how-to-join-an-imo)
-   [How to get a multi-state life insurance license: resident first, then nonresident](https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/guides/multi-state-life-insurance-license)
-   [How to become a life insurance agent with no experience](https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/careers/new-agents)

## Start your climb.

Tell us where you are today and request a call about licensing, training and the calls.

[Apply to join](https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/apply)

Shopping for coverage instead? [Get a quote](https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/get-a-quote)