AHIP Certification FAQs: Your Guide to Passing the Exam
For licensed agents who offer MA and PDP plans, AHIP certification is a must-have credential, but it often comes with a lot of questions. Whether you’re a first-time test taker or renewing your Medicare certification for the upcoming year, understanding the AHIP certification FAQs can help you save time, avoid mistakes, and stay compliant.
At Network Insurance, we work with agents every day, guiding them through certification training, contracts, and carrier requirements. We’re here to simplify the AHIP course process, so you can stay focused on building your book of business.
What is AHIP Certification and Why Do Agents Need It?
AHIP stands for America’s Health Insurance Plans. Their certification exam helps ensure agents understand Medicare basics, compliance rules, and how to protect beneficiaries from fraud, waste, and abuse. The certification is required by most Medicare Advantage plan and Part D plan (PDP) carriers
AHIP Medicare training keeps you compliant. It proves you know the rules when selling Medicare plans and gives carriers confidence that you can explain them clearly to clients. If you’re not AHIP certified, you may be restricted from marketing or selling certain products. Most major carriers won’t even let you complete their product training or submit business until your AHIP certification and National Producer Number (NPN) is on file. Getting certified early helps you stay ahead and avoid delays when AEP rolls around.
Frequently Asked Questions About AHIP Certification
- When Should I Take the AHIP Exam?
Agents usually start taking the AHIP test in June or July, when the new certification year becomes available. This gives you plenty of time to finish additional carrier training courses before AEP.
- How Long is AHIP Certification Valid?
AHIP certification is valid for one plan year. You’ll need to recertify each year to stay compliant and continue working with Medicare Advantage and prescription drug plans.
- What is the Passing Score for AHIP?
You need a 90% to pass. The exam has 50 review questions, and you can take it up to three times per season. It’s an open-book test with a two-hour time limit.
- How Much Does AHIP Certification Cost?
The standard cost is $175, but carriers may offer a discounted rate if you access AHIP through their agent portals.
- Is AHIP Certification Required for All Medicare Agents?
If you sell Medicare Advantage or Part D plans, yes. AHIP is not required for agents who only offer Medicare Supplement products, but it’s still a valuable continuing education resource that often provides CE credits.
Tips for Preparing for the AHIP Exam
Understanding the Exam Format
The AHIP exam is timed and must be completed in one sitting. You’ll get two hours per attempt. There are five key modules, followed by the final exam.
Reviewing Key Topics
Focus on:
- Medicare basics
- Enrollment periods
- General compliance guidelines
- Fraud, waste and abuse training (FWA)
These are the most heavily tested areas.
Using Practice Exams and Study Guides
Many agents find success using AHIP’s website for built-in quizzes, plus third-party study guides and videos. Reviewing your answers after practice exams can help you retain important info.
What Happens If You Fail the AHIP Exam?
Retake Policies and Fees
You have three total attempts per season. If you don’t pass, you’ll need to start over with a brand-new purchase, which means paying the full exam fee again—usually $175 unless you’re eligible for carrier or FMO discount. This can get expensive, so it’s smart to go into your first attempt prepared and focused.
Keep in mind that even though your training module progress carries over during your three attempts, any failed attempts will still be visible to carriers. Some carriers track this internally and may flag multiple failures in their eligibility and contracting process.
Strategies for a Successful Retake
Before your next attempt, revisit the training materials, review your incorrect answers, and take new notes. Also, give yourself time between attempts. Taking the test again immediately without studying could lead to another failure. Block off a few quiet hours to review, test yourself, and make sure you feel confident before trying again.
How to Maintain AHIP Certification Year After Year
Annual Renewal Requirements
You must retake the full course each year when the new content releases, usually in late June. Be sure to use the current year’s version.
Staying Updated on Medicare Rules and Regulations
Even outside of certification, agents should keep up with CMS guidelines and carrier updates to stay sharp and compliant.
Incorporating AHIP into Your Ongoing Professional Development
Use AHIP certification as a chance to refresh your knowledge, sharpen your sales skills, and stay informed. It’s more than a checkbox—it’s an investment in your business.
FAQs About AHIP Certification for 2026
- What’s New for AHIP 2026?
Expect updates on regulatory changes, new compliance guidelines, and possibly refreshed content around Medicare marketing rules.
To stay ahead, regularly check AHIP’s official website and your carrier portals. Many carriers release AHIP guidance documents as soon as the new version goes live, usually
- Do I Have to Complete Carrier-Specific Training After AHIP?
Yes. AHIP is only the first step. Carrier-specific certifications are critical because they teach you how to present that carrier’s plans accurately and compliantly. Skipping this step means you won’t be authorized to sell those products—even if you’ve passed AHIP. You’ll usually find carrier training in their individual agent portals, and many require them to be completed annually alongside your AHIP renewal.
- Can I Use My AHIP Certification for Multiple Carriers?
Absolutely. Once you pass, you can transmit your results to multiple carriers, just follow the instructions provided in their portals.
You’ve Got This: Network Insurance Is Here to Help
AHIP certification is a crucial step in your Medicare sales journey, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right preparation, a clear understanding of the requirements, and a solid timeline, you can pass the exam and start the season strong. Whether it’s your first time certifying or your tenth, staying current with these AHIP certification FAQs can make the process faster, smoother, and less stressful.
At Network Insurance, we don’t just hand you a to-do list and wish you luck, we work alongside you. From AHIP guidance to carrier contracting, training support, and compliance best practices, we’re here to make sure you have everything you need to succeed.
Need help getting started? Contact Network Insurance today, we’re ready to support you every step of the way.
