If you want to work as a licensed insurance advisor in India, the very first step is clearing the IRDAI IC-38 exam. Without it, you cannot get your IRDAI license, which means you cannot sell policies or earn commissions.
Many aspiring HDFC Life agents get nervous about this exam. But the truth is—with the right preparation strategy, you can easily clear IC-38 on your first attempt. This guide covers the exam format, syllabus, study hacks, and practical tips to help you succeed.
👉 Related: HDFC Life Agent Training: What to Expect and How to Prepare
What is the IRDAI IC-38 Exam?
The IC-38 exam is conducted by the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) to ensure new advisors understand:
- Basics of insurance and financial planning
- Ethical selling practices & compliance
- Customer handling and grievance redressal
Quick Exam Overview (2025):
- Mode: Online (computer-based test)
- Duration: 60 minutes
- Questions: 50 multiple-choice
- Passing Marks: 17/50 (35%)
- Languages: English, Hindi, and major regional languages
IC-38 Exam Syllabus Breakdown
| Section | Weightage | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|
| Insurance Basics | 20% | Risk, premium, underwriting, claims |
| IRDAI Regulations | 25% | Ethics, mis-selling rules, code of conduct |
| Life Insurance Products | 30% | Term, ULIP, Endowment, Riders |
| Customer Handling | 15% | KYC, grievance redressal, disclosures |
| Financial Awareness | 10% | Savings, investments, retirement basics |
Proven Tips to Pass IC-38 in First Attempt
1. Understand the Syllabus (Don’t Just Cram)
Many candidates fail because they only try to memorize answers. Instead, build concept clarity—why insurance exists, how premiums are calculated, and what IRDAI expects from agents.
2. Use IRDAI’s Official Study Material
During your HDFC Life training, you’ll receive a training handbook. Read it thoroughly—it is directly aligned with exam questions.
3. Take Mock Tests Regularly
Practice online IC-38 mock tests to simulate the real exam environment. This improves both speed and confidence.
4. Focus on Ethics & Compliance
Almost 25% of the paper is on ethics, mis-selling, and IRDAI regulations. These are the easiest scoring areas—don’t ignore them.
5. Manage Your Time Wisely
You’ll have 60 minutes for 50 questions—just over 1 minute per question. Answer the easy ones first, mark difficult ones, and return later.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Ignoring IRDAI regulations and focusing only on product details.
Attempting the exam without taking any mock test.
Memorizing without understanding—leading to confusion in tricky MCQs.
Not reading questions carefully (many are trap-based).
Checklist Before Exam Day
- 📖 Revise insurance basics and IRDAI code of conduct.
- 🖥️ Attempt at least 3 full mock tests.
- 😴 Get a good night’s sleep—alertness matters.
- 🪪 Carry valid ID proof if attending in person.
Why This Exam Matters
The IC-38 exam is your gateway to becoming a licensed agent. Without clearing it, you cannot sell insurance or earn commission. For HDFC Life agents, this is the first official milestone in building your career.
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