Massachusetts insurance continuing education requirements
Last updated
Continuing education (CE) is what keeps a Massachusetts producer license active after you pass the exam. The rules come from Massachusetts General Laws chapter 175, section 177E, and the Division of Insurance regulation 211 CMR 50.00. [1] [2] The Division's own CE page states the same requirements. [3] CE is also on the exam: the Massachusetts part of both producer exams covers licensing. [4]
How many hours
- Before your first renewal: 60 hours of approved instruction. [1] [2]
- After that: 45 hours for each 36 month period before the renewal date. [1] [2]
- Ethics: the hours must include 3 hours of Massachusetts Approved Ethics, coded MAE. [2] [3]
- Carry forward: excess hours earned in one 36 month period may be carried forward to the next 36 month period. [1] [3]
- Any line counts: the hours may be met in any line of insurance the producer is licensed for, and the regulation encourages at least one hour in each licensed line. [2]
The Division's page explains that the first renewal date comes less than three years after the license is first issued, because a license renews on your birth date on a triennial basis. It asks producers to finish CE before the renewal date so the hours show on their transcript. [3]
Who must comply
The rules apply to resident and nonresident producers licensed for life and annuity, variable annuity and variable life, accident and health, and property and casualty lines. [2] Among those not required to comply under 211 CMR 50.03: [2]
- nonresidents who hold an equivalent resident license from a state with CE requirements and are certified in good standing there;
- persons licensed before April 4, 1983, with listed exceptions;
- producers licensed only for travel and credit insurance limited lines;
- fraternal agents; and
- anyone holding a resident license for which no exam is required.
What counts
The Division's page lists national designation programs such as CPCU, CLU, CIC and AAI among those that qualify. [3] Section 177E also gives credit for teaching: an instructor or seminar lecturer earns the same hours as a person completing that instruction. [1]
If you fall short
- Extension: for good cause, the commissioner may grant more time. [1] [2]
- Certification: every licensee must furnish written certification, in a form the commissioner accepts, of the instruction completed. [1] Under 211 CMR 50.05, each resident producer who must complete CE is responsible for completing the form prescribed by the Commissioner certifying that the requirements were met, and sponsors keep records of participation for at least six years. [2]
- Penalties: failing to complete the required credits by the renewal date may result in non-renewal or suspension. After a hearing, which may be waived, a licensee may also face a civil fine of not less than $20 nor more than $100 for each hour of instruction they are short. [2] Section 177E also allows suspension of all licenses for failing to comply or for a false or fraudulent certificate. [1]
FAQ
How many CE hours does a new Massachusetts producer need?
60 hours before the first renewal date. [1] [2]
And after the first renewal?
45 hours every 36 months, including 3 hours of approved ethics. [1] [2]
Can extra hours roll over?
Yes, to the next 36 month period. [1]
Do nonresident producers need Massachusetts CE?
Section 177E does not apply to nonresidents who hold an equivalent home state license and meet their home state's CE rules, if that state recognizes Massachusetts CE on the same basis. [1]
What is the fine for missing hours?
$20 to $100 for each hour short, after a hearing that may be waived. [2]
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Sources
Laws and exam documents quoted as of October 2026.
- M.G.L. c. 175, s. 177E: https://malegislature.gov/Laws/GeneralLaws/PartI/TitleXXII/Chapter175/Section177E
- 211 CMR 50.00, Continuing Education for Insurance Producers: https://www.mass.gov/doc/21150pdf/download
- Massachusetts Division of Insurance, Continuing Education Information for Producers, Public Insurance Adjusters and Providers: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/continuing-education-information-for-producers-public-insurance-adjusters-providers
- Pearson VUE, Massachusetts content outlines 122301 (effective July 22, 2026): https://www.pearsonvue.com/content/dam/VUE/vue/en/documents/publications/122301.pdf