In this guide
A life insurance medical exam is a short health screening, usually done at your home or workplace by a paramedical professional rather than your own doctor. It typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes and includes measurements, a blood sample and a urine sample, plus questions about your health history. The insurer generally pays for it, and the results help decide your health class and price.
Key takeaways
- The exam is part of underwriting, the process the insurer uses to assess your risk and set your premium.
- It commonly includes height, weight, blood pressure and pulse, plus blood and urine samples. Some applicants also complete a questionnaire or other tests, depending on age and coverage amount.
- The insurer usually pays for the exam and you do not need to visit a clinic.
- Preparing sensibly, such as avoiding alcohol, caffeine and tobacco beforehand and staying hydrated, can help ensure accurate readings.
- Not all policies need an exam. See no-exam life insurance for alternatives and trade-offs.
Why insurers ask for an exam
Life insurance prices are based on risk. An exam gives the insurer objective information about your current health instead of relying only on your answers. In general, better results can place you in a lower-risk "health class," which usually means a lower premium. Poorer results may mean a higher price, or occasionally a decline.
Whether an exam is required depends on your age, the coverage amount, the policy type and the insurer's rules. Larger amounts and older ages are more likely to trigger one, and some insurers skip the exam for qualified applicants. Our guide on how to buy life insurance shows where the exam fits in the process.
What happens during the exam
- Scheduling. After you apply, the insurer or a vendor contacts you to book a visit, often at home or work, at a time that suits you.
- Identity check. The examiner confirms who you are, often with photo ID.
- Health questions. You answer questions about your medical history, medications, family history, lifestyle, travel and activities. Be accurate, as this record becomes part of your application.
- Measurements. Height, weight, blood pressure and pulse are recorded.
- Samples. The examiner collects blood and a urine sample.
- Extras, if requested. Depending on age and policy size, some applicants are also asked for an electrocardiogram (ECG) or other tests, or the insurer may request records from your doctors.
The whole visit often takes about 20 to 30 minutes, though the timing varies.
What the tests can look for
| Sample or measure | What insurers commonly look at |
|---|---|
| Height and weight | Body mass index and build |
| Blood pressure and pulse | Cardiovascular risk |
| Blood | Cholesterol, blood sugar markers and other indicators of liver and kidney function; may also test for certain infections and medication use |
| Urine | Kidney function, signs of diabetes, and may detect nicotine or other substances |
Exact panels differ by insurer. Nicotine testing is often part of it, which matters if you use tobacco or nicotine products; see life insurance for smokers and tobacco users.
How to prepare
Many insurers and consumer guides suggest simple preparation steps. Follow any instructions you receive from your insurer, which take priority.
- Stay hydrated. Water helps with blood and urine collection.
- Avoid alcohol and caffeine for at least a day beforehand where possible, since they can affect readings.
- Skip tobacco and nicotine before the test if the insurer advises it. Do not hide use on the application, as that can cause problems later.
- Avoid heavy exercise right before the visit, which can temporarily affect blood pressure and some results.
- Ask about fasting. Some exams ask you to fast for a few hours. A morning appointment can make that easier.
- Have your medication list and your doctors' names ready.
- Get a good night's sleep.
Watch out: Do not stop taking prescribed medicines or alter your routine on your own to look healthier. Talk to your doctor about any health concerns, and answer all questions honestly. Incorrect answers can affect a future claim.
After the exam
Underwriting review
The insurer's underwriters combine your exam results, application, and often database checks and medical records. This can take from a few days to several weeks, particularly if they need information from your doctor.
Possible outcomes
- Approved as applied. You get the coverage and rating you requested.
- Approved at a different rating. The price may be higher than the original quote if results differ from your answers.
- Modified offer. For example, a lower amount, or a different policy type.
- Postponed or declined. The insurer may ask you to reapply later or refer you to other options. Another insurer may view your situation differently.
Your results
Life insurers often share certain application information with industry databases that other insurers can check. In some cases you can request a copy of your information or ask about errors. Your insurer should explain how to do this if you are declined or rated higher.
Tip: If you are surprised by a higher rating, ask the insurer what caused it and compare quotes from several insurers. Different companies weigh health factors differently, so a result that is unfavorable with one may be better with another.
Exam vs. no-exam at a glance
- With an exam: More complete information, often lower prices for healthy people, higher coverage amounts. Takes more time.
- Without an exam: Faster and less intrusive, but typically higher prices and lower limits for the same applicant.
If you are wondering how big a policy you need before deciding, see how much life insurance do I need.
Privacy and what insurers do with the information
The exam and application create a detailed health record, so it is reasonable to ask how it will be used. Insurers use the information to underwrite your policy and are generally subject to federal and state privacy rules. Many also report certain application details to industry databases that other insurers can check, which is one reason accurate answers matter when you apply with more than one company.
If you have questions, ask the insurer for its privacy notice, and ask whether you can obtain a copy of the information it holds about you. If you believe something is wrong, such as a lab value that does not match your records, tell the underwriter and provide documentation from your doctor.
If the exam is a source of anxiety
Some people delay buying coverage because they dislike needles or worry about the results. Tell the examiner if you tend to feel faint, so they can have you sit or lie down. You can also ask whether a different collection method is available. If the process still feels like a barrier, compare the cost of a policy with an exam against one without; the price gap is sometimes smaller than people assume, and sometimes larger.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to pay for the life insurance medical exam?
Typically not. The insurer usually pays for the exam. If someone asks you for payment, check with the insurer before paying.
How long does a life insurance exam take?
Often around 20 to 30 minutes, although scheduling and underwriting afterward can take days to weeks.
Can I fail a life insurance medical exam?
There is no pass or fail. Results affect your health class and price, and in some cases the insurer may decline an application. Other insurers may assess the same results differently.
Will the exam show drug or nicotine use?
Samples may be tested for nicotine and certain substances, depending on the insurer. Answer questions honestly, since the application is a legal document.
Can I get life insurance without an exam?
Yes, some insurers offer accelerated underwriting, simplified issue or guaranteed issue policies. They often cost more or limit the coverage amount.
Sources
- Insurance Information Institute – 8 smart steps for buying life insurance
- NAIC – Life Insurance (Consumer guide)
- NAIC – Life Insurance (Insurance Topics)
- Progressive – What to expect from a life insurance medical exam
- Western & Southern – What to expect during a life insurance medical exam
General information only. This guide explains general concepts and is not insurance, legal or financial advice. Rules and prices vary by state and insurer. Check your policy documents and speak to a licensed insurance professional or your state insurance department about your situation.