Florida 2-20 General Lines Agent (Property, Casualty, Commercial Lines and Florida Law)Florida Law and EthicsHard
A Florida 2-20 General Lines Agent is preparing to submit an application for an insurance license. The agent has a prior conviction for a misdemeanor involving moral turpitude from five years ago. According to Florida law, what is the earliest point at which the Department of Financial Services (DFS) may consider granting a license to an applicant with such a conviction?
- AAfter 5 years from the date of final disposition of the crime.
- BImmediately, if the applicant provides a full explanation.
- CAfter 7 years from the date of final disposition of the crime.
- DNever, if the crime involves moral turpitude.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. After 5 years from the date of final disposition of the crime.
Florida Statute 626.207(3)(b) states that the Department of Financial Services may not issue a license to an applicant who has been convicted of a felony or a misdemeanor involving moral turpitude within the 5-year period immediately preceding the date of application. After 5 years, the DFS may consider the application, taking into account rehabilitation and other factors.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. A recent conviction, even with an explanation, would generally prevent immediate licensing due to statutory waiting periods.
- C. 7 years is a common waiting period for certain felonies, but for a misdemeanor involving moral turpitude, the specific period is 5 years.
- D. A conviction for a misdemeanor involving moral turpitude does not permanently bar an applicant from licensure; there are waiting periods and opportunities for rehabilitation to be considered.
License Eligibility After Misdemeanor (Florida)
Florida law imposes a waiting period before an individual with a misdemeanor conviction involving moral turpitude can be considered for an insurance license, emphasizing rehabilitation.
- Applies to misdemeanors involving moral turpitude.
- 5-year waiting period from final disposition of the crime.
- DFS considers rehabilitation and other factors after the waiting period.
- Governed by Florida Statute 626.207(3)(b).
Memory trick: Misdemeanor 'moral turpitude' means a 5-year pause.