How to Become an Insurance Broker in CA

FIngerprints are the first requirement in the application process.

Becoming an insurance broker allows you to offer insurance products from different insurance companies rather than serving as an agent of one. There are different types of insurance that a broker can offer including home, life, health or auto to name a few. You must be appropriately licensed in the state of California for the specific type of insurance you will be brokering. The specific details vary for the types of insurance listed on the California Department of Insurance. Certain requirement are uniform for all areas.

Instructions

1. Obtain an application and fingerprint card from your employer or the California Department of Insurance.

2. Get fingerprinted. Take the card with two forms of identification to a fingerprint service provider. Police stations are one resource. Many small copy stores, notary public locations or private mail box stores also offer fingerprinting for a nominal fee.

3. Obtain written consent from the Commissioner to engage in insurance sales if you have been convicted of any federal or state felonies or misdemeanor crimes. You can obtain a "1033 Application for Written Consent" at the California Department of Insurance website.

4. Complete the prelicensing education requirements. There are no college degrees required for insurance brokering. You must complete the required number of hours of education provided by a California approved course. Each area requires hours specific to the type of insurance offered; fire and casualty require 40 hours of class time. Most areas require 8 to twelve hours of ethics.

5. Fill out your application. This may be done online at the California State of Insurance website.

6. Pay all required fees. This includes a 2-year term licensing fee as well as your examination fee.

7. Schedule your exam at an approved California state licensing exam center. Pass the exam with a 70 percent or higher.

8. Await your approval from the California Department of Insurance.

Tips & Warnings

• Attendance is strictly monitored at all prelicensing classes with roll taken at the start and end of class as well as after any snack or lunch breaks. Failure to attend may result in denial of your broker's license.

References

• Insurance.ca.gov: Agents & Brokers
• Insurance.ca.gov: Producer Licensing Requirements