Can a convicted felon get a license to sell insurance in Illinois?

Answer 1

The insurance regulatory authority of each state usually has a separate division that handles the licensing of agents and other insurance operatives. By statute and regulation, each state prescribes qualifications, and disqualifications for insurance licensure.

Conviction of a felony is typically a disqualifying factor. However, if a license is denied for this reason, there may be an appeal process which the applicant can use. If it exists, it may require him/her to show rehabilitation, restitution, or otherwise getting back on track. Thereafter, he/she may be able to get a probationary license for a period of time.

It would be extremely difficulty to overcome the felony conviction were it to have involved something connected to the transaction of insurance or securities.

Answer 2

It depends on the nature of the felony conviction. Illinois allows the Department of Insurance to consider felony convictions on a case-by-case basis when determining eligibility for an insurance license. Each application is reviewed individually, and factors like the age of the conviction, the nature of the offense, and the applicant's rehabilitation efforts will be taken into consideration.