Bloomington, Minn., June 12, 2012 – Insurance professionals can continue to pursue industry recognized certification using the world’s largest most secure test center network, thanks to the renewed partnership between the Iowa Insurance Division (IID) and Pearson VUE.

The extension calls for Pearson VUE, the computer-based testing business of Pearson, to continue to conduct application screening, develop and administer computer-based exams and provide a range of continuing education services.

Since its establishment in 2006, the partnership has resulted in a marked change in services for division staff, candidates and licensees. Virtual meetings with content development were immediately implemented to augment face-to-face meetings as a time- and cost-saving measure, while maintaining the quality of work and level of client involvement.

In 2009, representatives from the Division and the State participated in Pearson VUE’s National Insurance Job Analysis – a pivotal step in maintaining the quality and validity of Pearson VUE’s national insurance examinations.

Tom O’Meara, Deputy Bureau Chief of Product and Producer Regulation at IID, said: “The Division staff and our customer base have enjoyed a consistently high level of service and support from Pearson VUE that we know will continue.”

Art Valentine, Senior Vice President of Professional Services and General Manager of Regulatory Services at Pearson VUE, added: “Our relationship with the Iowa Insurance Division has resulted in positive program development over the previous contract term. We are excited by the opportunity to continue our relationship and the development path we’re on.”

Robert Whelan, President of Pearson VUE, added: “Pearson VUE has always cherished a tradition of working closely with our clients to develop and increase program efficiency, while providing the best possible testing experience for the candidate. Partnership renewals are a testament to this, and support our ability to continually develop solutions that target the future and continued success of the Iowa Insurance Division’s program.”

About the Iowa Insurance Division
The Iowa Insurance Division supervises all insurance business transacted in the state of Iowa. The insurance commissioner oversees companies and individuals in the sale of insurance in Iowa and has general control over all aspects of their business, from the forms they use to the rates they charge. The Insurance Division also has statutory authority over many activities related to the sale of securities and other regulated products in the state.