How to Become an Insurance Broker in California

Every state needs good insurance brokers. Typical insurance agents represent only one company; they're "captive." Because of this, the services that they offer are necessarily limited. A broker, however, may represent dozens of insurance companies, and has access to products from each of one. California has strict rules about who can and cannot become a broker, so pay close attention to the state law.

Things You'll Need

• Clean background check
• California state insurance classes
• Pre-licensing examination

Instructions

1. Ensure that you have a clean background. The state does a Federal background check on you when you apply. Literally anything that you have done will be evident during the check. If you have a less than sterling record you can still be a broker, but you must disclose any previous transgressions on the application, no matter how minor.

2. Complete pre-licensing education. You must have 40 hours of classroom education to be a property/casualty broker. California splits their "Life Insurance" and their "Health and Accident insurance" apart. If you want to broker both lines, you'll have to take 20 hours for each of the two. If you just want one, then you don't need to complete the other.

3. Complete the Ethics and Insurance Code classwork. In addition to your licensing classes, you must take these as well, unless you're an insurance agent moving in from another state, or you have a CLU, or LUTCF designation.

4. Go to the Sheriff's Office or the Highway Patrol and have your fingerprints done. Submit your fingerprints to the state for your background check.

5. Schedule your licensing examination. You must pass your examination with a minimum score of 70 percent in order to get your license. Submit your paperwork to the California Department of Insurance for verification.

Tips & Warnings

• Never try to fake a background check for the State. They verify your fingerprints and history with the FBI. You will get caught if you try to cheat.

Resources