It’s that time of year again! The 2026 AHIP Certification exam opens on June 23rd, and if you’re ready to knock it off your list early, we’ve got you covered.

Whether you’re gearing up for your first certification or recertifying for the tenth time, AHIP is a key step to being ready-to-sell for AEP. And while it might not be the highlight of your summer, it’s one of the easiest wins you can lock in early.

This guide breaks down exactly what you need to know for 2026: what AHIP is, how much it costs, what’s new, and how to pass it the first time, so you can move on to what really matters.

What is AHIP Certification?

The AHIP (America’s Health Insurance Plans) certification is a standard test all insurance agents are required to take and pass in order to sell Medicare Advantage (MA) and Prescription Drug Plans (PDP). The test measures whether or not you’ve completed required Medicare training courses and that you understand how to compliantly sell Medicare as outlined by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). Certification is required each year.

2026 AHIP Certification Overview:

• Required annually
• Covers Medicare basics + FWA
• Open-book, open-note
• 50 questions
• 2 hours to complete
• 90% required to pass
• 3 attempts allowed
• Cost: $175 (Get a discount with AGA)

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What to Expect from the AHIP Exam

The AHIP certification covers two key topics: Medicare and Fraud, Waste, and Abuse (FWA). After completing your training modules, you’ll move on to the exam—a timed, open-book test designed to confirm you understand the compliance rules and sales practices CMS requires.

You’ll have up to three attempts to pass, but here’s the catch:

• Some carriers may not accept agents who fail more than once, even if they eventually pass. Always double-check carrier-specific rules.
• Fail all three attempts, and you won’t be eligible to sell for the year.

Take your prep seriously, especially if you rely on certain carriers. A few hours of review now can save you a season of setbacks.

Tips for Passing AHIP Certification Exam

1. Study & Take Notes

While the AHIP Certification exam is open-book, thorough preparation is still essential. Review the AHIP training modules carefully, focusing on any updates or changes for 2026. Take advantage of practice quizzes to reinforce your knowledge and identify areas that need more attention.

Pro Tip:  Create a concise study guide with key information from the AHIP training materials. Well-organized notes can save you valuable time during the exam.

2. Manage your Time

The AHIP exam consists of 50 questions to be completed within 2 hours. Pace yourself by reading each question carefully, but avoid getting stuck on challenging ones. Mark unclear questions for review and revisit them if time permits.

3. Utilize Technology

If you’re taking the AHIP Certification exam on a computer, leverage tools like Ctrl+F to quickly find keywords within the digital AHIP training modules. Consider using a second monitor to display the modules on one screen for convenient reference. 

4. Maintain Focus and Manage Stress

Test anxiety can affect even the most prepared individuals. To stay calm and focused during your AHIP exam, choose a quiet, distraction-free environment. Practice relaxation techniques, stay hydrated, and fuel your brain with healthy snacks. Approach the exam with a positive, confident mindset.

5. Don’t wait

Procrastination is a game we are all guilty of playing from time to time. However, procrastinating on taking the AHIP certification can lead to unnecessary stress. Give yourself enough time to prepare and take the test well before AEP so you can focus on other things like your sales strategy. Also, if you wait until the last minute you may not be able to retake the test before AEP begins.

Frequently Asked Questions About AHIP Certification

Is AHIP a hard test?
AHIP isn’t necessarily difficult, but it does require preparation. The exam is open-book and open-note, but you still need a solid grasp of Medicare rules and compliance standards. Most agents pass with proper review, but rushing through the material can lead to mistakes.

When can I take 2026 AHIP?
The AHIP 2026 certification exam opens on June 23, 2025. Agents can take the training and exam as early as that date to get certified and ready-to-sell before AEP.

Is there a deadline for AHIP?
There’s no official “deadline” for AHIP, but you must pass it before you can sell Medicare Advantage or PDP plans for AEP. Since some carriers have additional certifications and contracting timelines, the earlier you pass, the better.

Final Takeaway

Passing AHIP isn’t just a checkbox, it’s a signal to carriers and clients that you take compliance seriously. The sooner you complete it, the more time you have to focus on marketing, client outreach, and strategy. Start early, study smart, and take advantage of every resource at your disposal.