The short answer
Every agent has a resident license in their home state, and to sell insurance to clients in other states, they obtain non-resident licenses in those states. A resident license is the one you earn by passing your home state's exam, while non-resident licenses are generally granted based on your resident license through reciprocity, without retaking exams, for a fee and application. So expanding into other states is usually a matter of applying for non-resident licenses rather than starting over. This lets agents serve clients across multiple states, including those who move or spend time in more than one state.
So a resident license is your home-state license, and non-resident licenses let you sell in other states, usually via reciprocity.
How they work
You earn your resident license by meeting your home state's education and exam requirements. Once licensed, you can typically obtain non-resident licenses in other states by applying and paying a fee, since most states grant them based on your resident license without additional exams. You must keep both your resident and non-resident licenses current, including continuing education, which is usually satisfied through your resident state. Our guide to the licenses you need to sell Medicare, ACA, and life covers the lines of authority, and our join our team page covers getting set up.
Non-resident licenses generally follow from your resident license through reciprocity, with the resident state driving continuing education.
Why it matters for agents
Holding non-resident licenses lets you serve clients who live in or move to other states, expanding your market and helping clients who split time between states. It is a common step for agents growing their business regionally. Because each state has its own fees and rules, confirm the requirements for the states you want to add. Our join our team page explains how we help agents get appropriately licensed.
The takeaway: your resident license is your home-state base, and non-resident licenses obtained through reciprocity let you serve clients in other states and grow your market.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a resident and non-resident insurance license?
A resident license is the one you earn in your home state by passing its exam. Non-resident licenses let you sell in other states and are generally granted based on your resident license through reciprocity.
Do I have to retake exams for a non-resident license?
Usually not. Most states grant non-resident licenses based on your resident license without additional exams, requiring an application and fee.
Why would an agent get non-resident licenses?
To serve clients who live in or move to other states, expanding their market and helping clients who split time between states, such as snowbirds.
Free Consultation
Have Questions About Your Situation?
Every Medicare situation is different. Our Wyoming and Utah advisors provide free, personalized guidance — no pressure, no obligation.