Affordable Life Insurance Protection for Your Family

Is a Physical Exam Required for Life Insurance?

Last Updated: February 13, 2026 | Written by President of Term Life Online – AU, AAI, ARM


Is a Physical Exam Required?

If you’re asking, "Is a physical exam required for life insurance?" you’re likely worried about needles, medical appointments, or delays in getting approved.

Here’s the short answer:

No — a physical exam is not always required.

In fact, millions of people qualify for life insurance every year without ever taking a medical exam.

But whether you need one depends on:

  • Your age
  • Your health
  • The amount of coverage
  • The type of policy you choose

Let’s break it down clearly so you know exactly what to expect — and how to get covered fast.

If you want to skip ahead and see what you qualify for, you can request a free life insurance quote now and compare exam-free options instantly.


When Is a Physical Exam Required for Life Insurance?

A physical exam is typically required when:

  • You’re applying for a large coverage amount (e.g., $500,000+)
  • You’re choosing fully underwritten term life insurance
  • You have certain health risks
  • You want the absolute lowest possible premium
  • Start Your FREE Quote

Traditional life insurance policies often include:

  • Blood draw
  • Urine sample
  • Blood pressure reading
  • Height and weight check
  • Basic medical questionnaire


The exam is usually free and completed at your home in about 20–30 minutes.

But here’s what most people don’t realize…

Many applicants can skip the exam entirely. 


When Is a Physical Exam NOT Required?

You can often avoid a medical exam if you choose:


1. No-Exam Term Life Insurance


2. Simplified Issue Life Insurance


3. Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance

  • No exam
  • No health questions
  • Approval guaranteed
  • Typically for ages 50–85
  • Usually includes a waiting period
  • Start Your FREE Quote


These policies are extremely popular because they’re fast and convenient.


Why Do Some Policies Require a Physical Exam?

Insurance companies use medical exams to:

  • Verify health history
  • Measure risk accurately
  • Offer lower rates to healthier applicants

If you’re in excellent health, taking an exam could actually save you money.

For example:

  • A healthy 35-year-old may qualify for lower rates with an exam.
  • A 60-year-old with mild health issues may prefer no-exam simplicity.

The right choice depends on your priorities:


Does No-Exam Life Insurance Cost More?

Sometimes — but not always.

No-exam policies may have:

  • Slightly higher premiums
  • Lower maximum coverage limits

However, technology has changed underwriting dramatically.

Many insurers now use:

  • Prescription history databases
  • Medical records checks
  • Motor vehicle reports
  • Credit-based insurance scoring

This allows approval without traditional lab work.

For many applicants, pricing is surprisingly competitive.

The only way to know for sure?

Request your free life insurance quote and compare rates instantly.


Compare Rates!


How Much Coverage Can You Get Without a Physical Exam?

Coverage limits vary, but common ranges include:

  • $25,000 to $1,000,000+ for no-exam term policies
  • $5,000 to $25,000 for final expense policies
  • Up to $3 million with accelerated underwriting (in some cases)

Eligibility depends on:

  • Age
  • Health history
  • Lifestyle
  • Tobacco use

A quick quote check can show your available options in under 60 seconds.


What Happens During a Life Insurance Physical Exam?

If you choose (or require) an exam, here’s what to expect:

  • Basic health questionnaire
  • Height and weight measurement
  • Blood pressure reading
  • Small blood sample
  • Urine sample

No stress tests.

No invasive procedures.

No hospital visits.

Results are sent directly to the insurance company — you don’t even pay for it.


Pros and Cons of Exam vs. No Exam Policies


With Physical Exam

Pros

    ✔ Potentially lower premiums

    ✔ Higher coverage amounts

    ✔ More accurate underwriting

Cons

    ❌ Takes extra time

    ❌ Requires blood/urine samples


Without Physical Exam

Pros

    ✔ Faster approval

    ✔ No needles

    ✔ No lab work

    ✔ Convenient

Cons

    ❌ Slightly higher rates in some cases

    ❌ May limit coverage amounts


The right option depends on your goals.


Who Should Consider No-Exam Life Insurance?

No-exam coverage is ideal if you:

  • Want coverage immediately
  • Dislike medical testing
  • Have mild health concerns
  • Need moderate coverage
  • Are buying final expense insurance

Many applicants are approved the same day.


Frequently Asked Questions


1. Is a physical exam required for term life insurance?

Sometimes. Traditional term policies may require one, but many no-exam term options exist.


2. Is a physical exam required for whole life insurance?

It depends on the policy type. Final expense and guaranteed issue policies usually do not require exams.


3. Can I get life insurance with health problems and no exam?

Yes. Simplified issue and guaranteed issue policies are designed for this.


4. Is no-exam life insurance legitimate?

Yes. These are real, regulated policies offered by major insurers.


So… Is a Physical Exam Required?

Not always.

You have options.

You can:

  • Take an exam for potentially lower rates
  • Skip the exam for speed and convenience
  • Choose guaranteed approval if health is a concern

The best policy is the one that fits your timeline, budget, and comfort level.

Instead of guessing, see your real options now.

👉 Request your free life insurance quote today and find out whether you qualify for no-exam coverage — with no obligation and no pressure.

Protection doesn’t have to be complicated.

And it doesn’t have to involve needles either.


Compare No Exam Life Insurance Quotes


Top Pick – JRC Insurance Group

JRC Insurance Group helps you shop, compare and save on life insurance. Regardless of your age or health background, we'll shop our 40+ insurance companies and find you affordable life insurance you need to protect your family and fit your budget. Compare the best life insurance rates for savings up to 73%. 

JRC Insurance offers up to $3,000,000 of life insurance with no medical exam required. 

You can get approval for your insurance policy in as little as 10 minutes to 2 days. JRC offers no exam life insurance for diabetics, too.

JRC offers some of the best rates on life insurance policies without any health exams required.

You can choose from $25,000 to $3,000,000 of no exam life insurance coverage from several leading life insurance carriers through JRC Insurance Group. Start Your FREE Quote.


Highly Recommended – Globe Life Insurance

Get FREE Information On How $1* Can Buy Up To $100,000 Globe Life Insurance For Adults Or Children

  • No Medical Exam – Simple Application.
  • No Waiting Period. Buy Direct.
  • Rates As Low As $3.49 Per Month.
  • The Globe Life Family Of Companies Has Nearly 17 Million Policies In Force.
  • No Phone Required. No Credit Required.
  • The Globe Life Family Of Companies Has Over $224 Billion Of Coverage In Force.
  • Globe Life Is Rated A (Excellent) By A.M. Best Company As Of August 2023.


Highly Recommended – Mutual of Omaha

Mutual of Omaha offers guaranteed acceptance whole life insurance for people age 45 to 85. Choose $2,000 up to $25,000 of coverage. Rates start as low as $8.84 per month. There’s no medical exam and no health questions. You cannot be turned down. You can get a quote and apply online now. Start Here to get a FREE Quote. 

  • Your life insurance policy comes with a 30 day Risk-Free, Money-Back Guarantee


Resources:


About Our Methodology

Reviewed By: President of Term Life Online – AU, AAI, ARM

  • 30+ years of experience in insurance planning

How We Keep This Guide Accurate: We regularly updates our content to reflect the latest rates and industry trends. We are committed to providing transparent, unbiased information to help you make the best decision for your family.

At Term-Life-Online.com We value your trust and privacy.



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