---
title: What does a life insurance medical exam test for
url: https://coverfolk.com/answers/what-the-exam-tests
updated: 2026-10-08
---

# What does a life insurance medical exam test for?

Updated October 8, 20263 sourcesCoverfolk team[Fact checked](/editorial-standards)

The short answer

It is like a short checkup. The examiner checks your height, weight, and blood pressure, and takes blood and urine to look for things like high sugar, high cholesterol, drugs, and nicotine.

Policygenius says the exam takes about 30 minutes. It can be at your home or work. You answer questions about your health, habits, and medicines.

Blood and urine tests can show high cholesterol, high blood sugar, kidney or liver problems, HIV, and hepatitis. Men over 50 may get a prostate test. Older people or people buying large policies may get a heart test called an EKG.

The tests also look for drugs and nicotine. Policygenius says tobacco users can pay two to three times more.

Insurers also check records. With your OK, they can see your medical records and prescription history. They may check MIB, a database of past insurance applications. MIB says you can get your own file free once a year.

Be honest. Washington says false health answers can lead to a canceled policy or no payment to your family.

* Fast 6 to 8 hours before
* Drink water
* Skip hard exercise the day before
* Avoid cold and allergy medicine if you can
* Have your doctors' names ready

## More questions

### Can I see what MIB has on me?

Yes. MIB gives a free copy once a year. You only have a file if you applied for individual life or health insurance in the last 7 years.

### Can I skip the exam?

Yes, with some policies. Guaranteed issue policies have no exam and no health questions, but they cost more and pay less.

## Sources

1. [Policygenius: Life Insurance Medical Exam: What You Need to Know](https://www.policygenius.com/life-insurance/life-insurance-medical-exam/)
2. [MIB: Request Your MIB Consumer File](https://www.mib.com/request_your_record.html)
3. [Washington Office of the Insurance Commissioner: Learn how life insurance works](https://www.insurance.wa.gov/insurance-resources/life-insurance/learn-how-life-insurance-works)