SB 263: California’s New Annuity CE Requirement Explained

The law just changed. Here’s what every CA life agent needs to know for 2025.

If you’re not sure how to get your California insurance license, read our step-by-step licensing guide.

What is SB 263?

SB 263 is California’s 2025 law updating the CE requirements for anyone who sells, solicits, or negotiates annuity products. The new rule is designed to add “best interest” standards for agents and improve consumer protections. If you touch annuities—even one sale per year—you’re affected.

Who Needs the New Training?

All life agents in California who want to sell annuities after January 1, 2025 must complete an 8-hour SB 263-compliant Annuity CE course—even if you’ve already done annuity CE in the past. This is not a one-time thing; you must repeat the training every two-year renewal period.

What Does the SB 263 Training Cover?

• Best interest sales standards and disclosures
• Types of annuities and how they work
• Suitability, replacement, and compliance
• Producer duties, prohibited conduct, and consumer protections
• All new California disclosure forms and timelines
• Penalties for noncompliance

How Do I Complete the Requirement?

1. Take the approved 8-hour SB 263 annuity CE course—GTA Exam Prep offers it online, self-paced.
2. Pass the open-book quiz (minimum 70% score).
3. Get your certificate instantly. GTA reports your hours to the DOI the same day.

FAQ: What if I already took annuity CE last cycle?

Doesn’t matter. The SB 263 version is required for any transactions in 2025 and beyond—even if your last CE was less than two years ago.

FAQ: What happens if I don’t take the course?

You can’t lawfully sell annuities. Your E&O coverage could be void and you’re open to disciplinary action by the DOI. The carrier will check—don’t risk it.

Quick Recap

• 8-hour SB 263 annuity CE is mandatory every renewal
• New standard starts January 1, 2025
• Online, self-paced, open-book—no excuses

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