What is a personal lines insurance license, and how do I get one?

A personal lines license authorizes an agent to sell property and casualty insurance to individuals and families for primarily noncommercial purposes, such as auto and homeowners coverage. Requirements vary by state: New York requires a 40-hour prelicensing course for personal lines, Georgia requires an 8-hour course, and Illinois requires 20 hours. California requires only a 12-hour course on ethics and the California Insurance Code.