đź©ş What Happens During the Exam
The exam is free, takes 20-30 minutes, and can be done at home. A paramedical examiner collects:
Physical Measurements
- • Height and weight (BMI)
- • Blood pressure
- • Pulse/heart rate
Lab Work
- • Blood draw (cholesterol, glucose, HIV, drugs)
- • Urine sample (drugs, nicotine, kidney function)
- • Sometimes EKG for older applicants
What Your Blood & Urine Reveal
Cholesterol
Total, HDL, LDL. High LDL or low HDL increases rates.
Blood Glucose/A1C
Screens for diabetes. Elevated levels flag diabetes risk.
Nicotine/Cotinine
Detects tobacco use. Smokers pay 2-3x more. Detectable for weeks.
Drug Screen
Tests for illegal drugs. Marijuana increasingly allowed by some insurers.
Liver & Kidney Function
Elevated enzymes can indicate alcohol use or organ issues.
Tips for Better Exam Results
âś“ Morning Appointment
Schedule for morning. Blood pressure is typically lower, and you can fast overnight naturally.
âś“ Fast 8-12 Hours
Don't eat before the exam. Fasting improves cholesterol and glucose readings.
âś“ Hydrate Well
Drink water (not coffee). Hydration makes blood draw easier and urine sample cleaner.
âś“ Skip Alcohol 48+ Hours
Alcohol elevates liver enzymes and blood pressure. Abstain for 2-3 days before.
âś“ Avoid Strenuous Exercise
Exercise 24 hours before can elevate heart rate and affect certain markers.
âś“ Skip Caffeine Morning Of
Coffee elevates blood pressure and heart rate. Drink water instead.
❌ Don't Do This
- • Don't lie about smoking—nicotine is detectable for weeks
- • Don't crash diet—your normal weight matters more than temporary loss
- • Don't take someone else's medication to "improve" results
Understanding Rating Classes
| Rating Class | Premium Level | Who Qualifies |
|---|---|---|
| Preferred Plus/Elite | Lowest | Excellent health, no tobacco, ideal weight, perfect labs |
| Preferred | Low | Very good health, minor issues allowed |
| Standard Plus | Average+ | Good health with some controlled conditions |
| Standard | Average | Average health, some risk factors |
| Substandard/Table Rated | Higher | Significant health issues, still insurable |
FAQs
How long do results take?
Lab results take 1-2 weeks. Full underwriting decision takes 3-6 weeks for traditional policies. Accelerated underwriting (no exam) can approve in days.
Can I retake the exam if results are bad?
Not with the same application. However, if you're denied or rated poorly, you can apply with a different insurer. Some people improve health and reapply in 6-12 months for better rates.
What if I use marijuana?
Policies vary. Some insurers treat marijuana like tobacco (2x rates). Others are more lenient for occasional recreational use. Be honest—they'll find out from your medical records anyway.
The Bottom Line
The life insurance exam is quick and painless. Prepare by fasting, hydrating, and avoiding alcohol/caffeine before your exam. A morning appointment typically yields better blood pressure readings. Your health class (Preferred, Standard, etc.) significantly impacts your premium—but even substandard coverage is better than no coverage.