What must an insurance agent have in order to sell life insurance according to regulatory standards?

To sell life insurance, an insurance agent must obtain a license from the state. This licensing process ensures that agents are knowledgeable about the policies they are selling, the insurance laws and regulations in their state, and how to properly advise clients. The state regulatory body oversees the licensing process to maintain industry standards and protect consumers. Having a license demonstrates that the agent has met the required training and education criteria, which generally includes passing a state-administered examination and fulfilling continuing education requirements to remain updated on industry practices and regulations.

The other options, while potentially beneficial in certain contexts, are not prerequisites for selling life insurance. Experience in underwriting relates more to evaluating risk than to selling policies. A certification from a financial institution might enhance a professional's credibility or knowledge, but it is not a required credential to sell life insurance. Similarly, an advanced degree in insurance may be advantageous, but formal higher education is not mandatory to obtain a license to sell life insurance. Thus, the correct requirement for selling life insurance is indeed having a valid state license.