Choosing the right insurance pre-licensing course can make the difference between passing your exam the first time and having to start over. The best programs give you clear state-specific content, engaging study materials, and practice tools that match the real exam. With so many national providers offering different formats, price points, and state approvals, it can be hard to know which one actually prepares you for success.
In this guide, I break down the best insurance pre-licensing courses in 2025 and compare their features, pricing, and formats. Whether you want a self-paced online course, instructor-led sessions, or a package that includes practice exams and flashcards, this list will help you find the right fit for your state’s licensing requirements and your learning style.
There are plenty of insurance pre-licensing courses available, but I narrowed the list down to the top six:
- Kaplan Financial Education: Best overall insurance pre-licensing course
- ExamFX: Best for flexible, state-specific exam prep
- WebCE: Best for extended access and continuing education (CE) options
- XCEL Solutions: Best for first-time test takers
- Aceable Insurance: Best for mobile-friendly and self-paced learning in select states
Available in Arizona, California, Georgia, Illinois, Massachusetts, Missouri, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Texas. - America’s Professor: Best for video-based instructor-style lessons in 14 states
Available in Arizona, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Montana, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, and Wyoming.
Key takeaways
- The best insurance pre-licensing courses provide state-approved content, clear study materials, and practice exams that closely match the real test.
- Prices typically range from about $79 to $528, depending on your state, the license type you want, and whether you choose a basic or premium package.
- Most learners complete their pre-licensing course in one to three weeks, although many providers offer extended access if you prefer a slower pace.
- Choosing the right provider depends on your learning style, your budget, and the exam requirements in your state.
Quick comparison of insurance pre-licensing courses
Kaplan Financial Education: Best overall insurance pre-licensing course
Pros
- State-specific class content
- Live classes or self-study classes available
- Multiple package tiers
Cons
- Live classes have fixed schedules, which may cause scheduling conflicts
- Course access may end after 60 days based on state guidelines
- Some class materials come at an extra cost
Pricing
The pricing below varies based on the state you register in.
- Basic Package: Priced at $139 in many states. Includes state-specific pre-licensing content, online study tools, and review exams.
- Essential Package: Priced at $189 in many states. Adds enhanced study materials and additional review tools.
- EssentialPlus Package: Priced at $249 in many states. Includes all Essential materials plus live and on-demand online review classes.
- Premium Instruction Package: Priced from $219 to $329 in select states. Adds a live online instructor-led class, the License Exam Manual, a State Law Supplement, and expanded review tools.
- Career Launcher Package: Priced at $349. Adds live and on-demand sessions, the Insurance Accelerator program, and additional study resources.
Students can select packages for individual license lines, such as Life only, Health only, Life and Health, Adjuster Lines, Property, Casualty, or combined options. Pricing varies by state due to different hour requirements and state approval rules.
Kaplan makes the pre-licensing process feel structured and manageable, especially if you are new to the insurance industry. The lessons are easy to follow, the study tools are well organized, and the content aligns with each state’s requirements, so you know you are learning exactly what will appear on the exam. I also like that Kaplan offers several package options, making it easier to choose the level of support you want without paying for extras you may not need.
The QBank is one of the biggest advantages because it lets you practice with exam-style questions and track the areas you need more review in. If you prefer learning with an instructor, the EssentialPlus or Career Launcher packages include live and on-demand sessions to help reinforce the trickiest topics. Overall, Kaplan delivers a dependable learning experience with the right balance of structure, flexibility, and exam-focused tools.
- Instructor expertise: Kaplan’s insurance courses are built by industry professionals with experience in insurance sales, underwriting, and regulatory compliance. The content is written and updated by subject matter experts who specialize in state licensing requirements.
- Method of delivery: Courses are delivered online through a self-paced platform, with optional live and on-demand instruction available in the EssentialPlus and Career Launcher packages. Students can study on a computer, tablet, or mobile device.
- Courses available: Kaplan offers pre-licensing courses for Life, Health, Life and Health, Property, Casualty, Personal Lines, and Adjuster licenses. Each course is tailored to the state-specific rules and exam requirements for your location.
Kaplan has a 92% exam pass rate for Life and Health and a 90% pass rate for Property and Casualty.
ExamFX: Best for flexible, state-specific exam prep
Pros
- Three different learning formats to choose from
- Large variety of license types available
- Easy-to-use online portal for classes
Cons
- Access to class materials may expire after a certain amount of time, depending on class type
- Job placement is not available upon licensing
- Prices vary based on the license needed
Pricing
- Self-Study Package: Priced from $79.95 to $169.95, depending on the license line. Includes 60 days of course access, the interactive learning portal, online exam simulations, a readiness exam, and instructor and technical support.
- Video Study Package: Priced at $219.95. Includes everything in the Self-Study Package plus on-demand video lectures.
- Live Online Package: Priced at $299.95. Adds scheduled live online classes in addition to all Video Study materials and provides real-time instructor support.
Students can select pre-licensing courses for Life, Health, Life and Health, Property and Casualty, Personal Lines, Adjusters, Medicare Supplement or Long-Term Care, and Limited Lines Automobile. Pricing varies by state and license type, but the three package levels remain consistent across most courses.
ExamFX gives learners a clear path to the exam by offering three structured formats that fit different study preferences. The self-study option works well if you want a simple and affordable way to prepare, while the video and live online packages add more support for students who learn best through guided instruction.
I also like that ExamFX includes exam simulations and a readiness exam in every package, since these tools help you understand how close you are to passing before you schedule the real test. The interface is easy to navigate, and the consistent layout across all license lines makes the learning experience feel straightforward.
- Instructor expertise: ExamFX courses are developed by insurance professionals and experienced instructors who understand state licensing content and exam requirements. Live online sessions are led by educators who guide students through key exam topics.
- Method of delivery: Courses are delivered entirely online. Students can choose from a self-paced learning portal, on-demand video instruction, or scheduled live online classes, depending on the package they select.
- Courses available: ExamFX offers pre-licensing courses for Life, Health, Life and Health, Property and Casualty, Personal Lines, Adjusters, Variable Products, Medicare Supplement and Long-Term Care, and Limited Lines Automobile. Availability varies by state, but most core license lines are offered nationwide.
WebCE: Best for extended access and continuing education options
Pros
- Pass guarantee is offered if you follow the course and don’t pass the first time
- Affordable pricing structure
- Large selection of classes available
Cons
- Courses are self-paced with no live instructor
- Study tools require an additional purchase
- Video instruction only available in higher-priced packages
Pricing
- Exam Prep Package: Priced at $99.95. Includes online pre-licensing content, exam simulations, printable study charts, and 60 days of course access.
- Exam Prep Plus Package: Priced at $149.95. Includes all Exam Prep features plus additional study aids designed to reinforce core concepts.
- Study Tools: Priced from $14.95 to $29.95. Optional add-ons such as Flash Tutor and Exam Tutor provide extra practice and quick review sessions.
Students can choose from a variety of license lines, including Life, Accident and Health, Life and Health combined, Property, Casualty, Personal Lines, and several state-specific options. Pricing varies by state, but the Exam Prep and Exam Prep Plus packages are consistent across most locations.
WebCE is a great option for students who want an affordable and straightforward way to prepare for their insurance licensing exam. I like that the courses are easy to follow, and the platform includes helpful study tools like flash cards, exam simulations, and printable study charts. The pass guarantee also adds extra confidence, especially for first-time test takers who want reassurance while they study.
The guided ordering process makes it simple to choose the right course for your state, which removes a lot of confusion for beginners. Even though WebCE does not offer live or instructor-led classes, its self-paced format and clear course layout make studying feel manageable. The focus on CE is also a plus if you plan to keep growing in the insurance field after passing your exam.
- Instructor expertise: WebCE courses are developed by insurance education specialists and reviewed by compliance experts to ensure the material aligns with current state regulations and exam requirements. The curriculum is designed to simplify complex topics and help students build a strong foundation before taking the test.
- Method of delivery: Courses are delivered entirely online through a self-paced learning portal. Students can access exam simulations, flash cards, study charts, and other tools from any desktop or mobile device. The Exam Prep Plus package includes additional supplemental materials for deeper review.
- Courses available: WebCE offers pre-licensing courses for Life, Accident and Health, Life and Health combined, Property, Casualty, Personal Lines, and state-specific exam options. Many lines also include optional study tools, ethics courses, and supplemental review aids for added support.
XCEL Solutions: Best for motivated students who want a structured, self-paced path
Pros
- Straightforward, easy-to-use learning platform
- Choose between English, Spanish, Korean, Mandarin, and Vietnamese for the course study language in some states
- State-specific courses
Cons
- Starting price is higher than that of competitors
- Not all features are available in the standard package
- No customer support on weekends or after 7 p.m. on weekdays
Pricing
- Standard Pre-Licensing Course: Priced at $199. Includes XCEL’s full three-part training system with online self-paced learning, exam simulators, practice questions, and core study tools.
- Premier Pre-Licensing Course: Priced from $224.25 to $299, depending on discounts and state availability. Adds flashcards, recorded review classes, and additional study aids to reinforce key exam concepts.
XCEL offers courses for Life, Health, Life and Health combined, Property, Casualty, and Personal Lines. Pricing varies slightly by state and license type, but the Standard and Premier tiers follow the same structure across most locations.
XCEL does a great job of making exam preparation feel organized and manageable, especially if you prefer a clear, guided learning path. I like that the courses use a structured three-part system that walks you through learning the material, reviewing key concepts, and practicing with exam-style questions. The unlimited exam simulators are a big advantage because they give you as much practice as you need before test day.
The Premier package adds helpful tools like flashcards and recorded review classes, which can reinforce the most important topics without requiring live class attendance. XCEL also offers multiple language options in select states, which is a benefit for bilingual learners. Overall, XCEL provides a strong mix of study tools that focus on helping you build confidence and stay on track from start to finish.
- Instructor expertise: XCEL courses are created by insurance education professionals with decades of industry and teaching experience. The curriculum is developed using research-based methods and is reviewed regularly to ensure it aligns with state exam standards.
- Method of delivery: Courses are delivered online with a self-paced format. Depending on your state and package, you may also have access to livestream or recorded review classes. Students can study using practice exams, flashcards, review notes, and additional digital tools included in each package.
- Courses available: XCEL offers pre-licensing courses for Life, Health, Life and Health combined, Property, Casualty, and Personal Lines. Select states also include multi-language Health pre-licensing options. All courses follow XCEL’s structured three-part training approach designed to prepare students for exam success.
Aceable Insurance: Best for mobile-friendly and self-paced learning in select states
Pros
- Mobile-friendly courses make studying easy on the go
- Multiple methods to contact customer service
- Enrollment discounts available
Cons
- Not available in all states
- Small class selection
- Live instruction is only available in some states
Pricing
- Life + Health Course: Typically $239, discounted in some states (currently discounted to: $167.30). Includes 1,300+ practice questions, 5+ hours of video, quizzes, and flashcards.
- Property + Casualty Course: Usually $239, with discounted pricing shown at $167.30. Includes 1,000+ practice questions and 9+ hours of video.
- 4-in-1 License Bundle (Life, Health, Property, Casualty): Regularly $379 to $429, with discounted examples ranging from $299 to $300.30. Provides full content access for all license types and bundled study tools.
- State-Based Standard Courses: Most state courses (Life-only or Health-only) are priced at $199, including 20 hours of online, self-paced content.
Students can choose from Life + Health, Property + Casualty, or an all-in-one bundle. Pricing varies by state based on available license types and promotional discounts.
Aceable’s pre-licensing program stands out because it’s designed for people who need flexibility without sacrificing structure. The courses are fully online and self-paced, which makes it easy to fit study time around work or family responsibilities. The lessons use a modern learning style with short videos, quizzes, and interactive tools, so the material never feels overwhelming or dry.
I also like that Aceable includes a large number of practice questions, which helps reinforce key concepts and build test-day confidence. The 4-in-1 bundle is another strong advantage for anyone planning to earn multiple lines of authority since it combines all four license types into one program at a better price.
Aceable’s support team is another plus. From enrollment to exam day, you can get help with questions or guidance on what to study next, which makes the entire licensing process feel more manageable.
- Instructor expertise: Aceable’s pre-licensing courses are developed by insurance education specialists who focus on breaking down complex topics into simple, easy-to-understand lessons. The curriculum is built around practical explanations, short video segments, and clear examples that help students learn faster and retain information.
- Method of delivery: Courses are delivered entirely online through a self-paced, mobile-friendly platform. Students can complete the course on a desktop, tablet, or smartphone with access to videos, quizzes, flashcards, and large practice question banks. Each course includes structured study paths that guide you through the licensing requirements step by step.
- Courses available: Aceable offers pre-licensing courses for Life + Health, Property + Casualty, and a 4-in-1 combined bundle covering all four license lines. Standard single-line courses are also available in select states for Life-only or Health-only licensing. Course availability varies by state, with offerings currently available in Arizona, California, Georgia, Illinois, Massachusetts, Missouri, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Texas, with upcoming expansion into additional states.
America’s Professor: Best for video-based instructor-style lessons in 14 states
Pros
- Hard-copy textbook included
- Easily accessible customer support
- 100-day online access
Cons
- Limited states supported
- Courses only available in English
- Course does not come with a guarantee
Pricing
- Life-Only or Health-Only Course: Typically $145. Includes video instruction, textbook, practice questions, and 100-day access.
- Combined Life & Health Course: Generally priced at $199, with some versions reaching $279, depending on course depth and required hours.
- Property-Only or Casualty-Only Course: Commonly priced at $145, matching the single-line format for other license types.
- Property & Casualty Combined Course: Usually $199, with some variations priced at $279 based on course length and requirements.
- Full “PC + LH” Combo Package: Ranges from $348 on the lower end up to $528.50 for expanded or multi-line packages.
- Limited Lines Course: Priced at $149.
Students can choose from single-line or multi-line pre-licensing courses, depending on the license they need. Pricing varies by course type and package level, with single-line classes at the lower end and full multi-line bundles at the highest tier. Course costs differ based on content depth, instructional materials, and included resources, but the overall structure remains consistent across all offerings.
America’s Professor stands out for students who want a more traditional, instructor-guided experience without the pressure of fixed class times. The split-screen lecture style feels closer to sitting in a real classroom, and the included physical textbook gives you a full learning package without having to buy extras. I also like that they offer 100 days of course access and will extend it if you need more time, which makes this one of the most flexible programs for students who want to learn at their own pace.
Its customer support is another strong point. You can tell the team knows the course material well, and it shows in how quickly they answer questions or help you understand tougher topics. Everything together creates a clear, structured learning environment that works especially well for students who prefer guided teaching over self-study formats.
- Instructor expertise: America’s Professor courses are taught by experienced instructors who specialize in simplifying complex insurance concepts through clear, classroom-style video lessons. Their teaching approach combines real-world explanations with structured examples, offering the feel of an in-person lecture from an industry expert.
- Method of delivery: Courses are delivered online through video-based instruction paired with a physical textbook. Students can watch lessons on demand, follow along in the textbook, and complete practice questions and sample exams at their own pace. Each course includes 100-day access with extensions available until you pass the test.
- Courses available: America’s Professor offers pre-licensing courses for Life, Health, Life and Health combined, Property, Casualty, Property and Casualty combined, and multi-line bundles that include all major license types. Limited lines and specialty options are also available depending on the state.
How to choose the best insurance pre-licensing course
Choosing the right pre-licensing course depends on your learning style, your state’s requirements, and the type of insurance license you want to earn. Start by checking your state’s required course hours and verifying that the provider you choose is approved in your state.
If you learn best through structured lessons or instructor guidance, look for providers that offer live online classes or strong video instruction. If you prefer a flexible, self-paced option, select a course with mobile access, practice exams, and clear learning tools.
Pricing also varies widely, so compare what each package includes before deciding. Focus on programs that offer plenty of practice questions, exam simulations, and support resources to help you feel confident on test day.
State-specific licensing requirements
Insurance licensing requirements vary by state, including the number of required pre-licensing hours, types of approved courses, and rules for scheduling the state exam. Some states require both a pre-licensing course and fingerprinting, while others only require the exam.
Always confirm your state’s rules through your state’s Department of Insurance before enrolling. Many providers include guided enrollment tools to help you choose the correct course for your state, and most offer detailed breakdowns of required hours, content areas, and testing procedures.
Study tips & test-taking strategies
Preparing for an insurance licensing exam is easier when you use the right study approach. Break the material into small sections and study consistently rather than trying to absorb everything at once. Use practice exams to identify weak areas and repeat those sections until you feel confident.
Flashcards and quizzes are helpful for memorizing definitions and key concepts. On exam day, read each question carefully, eliminate incorrect answers, and manage your time so you don’t rush through the final section. Most students benefit from studying for at least one to two weeks, depending on the course length and complexity.
My methodology
I evaluated each insurance pre-licensing provider using several factors important to prospective agents. These include state approval, course quality, pricing, available learning formats, instructor expertise, study tools, and customer support.
I also looked at access length and overall value based on the features included in each package. Providers were analyzed using publicly available information, student experiences, and platform features to help identify which courses work best for different types of learners.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The best course depends on your learning style. Kaplan works well for students who want structured materials. ExamFX is ideal for flexible state-specific prep, XCEL is suited for students who want a structured, self-paced path, WebCE is great for affordability, Aceable is strong for mobile learners, and America’s Professor is best for instructor-style teaching.
Most courses take one to three weeks to complete, depending on your state’s required hours and how much time you dedicate each day.
Most states allow online courses, but a few may have specific approval requirements. Always check your state’s Department of Insurance before enrolling.
Property and Casualty can feel more complex due to the number of coverage types, while Life and Health often require more memorization. Difficulty varies by student.
Most states require a passing score of around 70%, though the exact passing score depends on your state’s testing provider.
Bottom line
Insurance pre-licensing courses help you prepare for your state exam with structured lessons, practice tools, and state-approved content. The right course depends on your budget, learning preferences, and the type of license you plan to earn. Whether you want a fully self-paced class, mobile-friendly lessons, or instructor-driven video teaching, there’s a provider on this list that fits your goals and helps you get ready for exam day with confidence.