How to Obtain a License to Sell Insurance
Insurance sales agents sell a variety of insurance policies, including life, health, long-term care and casualty. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, demand for insurance agents is expected to increase about 12 percent through 2018. States regulate insurance agents through a licensing process. This process is created to educate prospective insurance agents and provide consumer safety.
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Instructions
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Contact your state department of insurance. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, each state has different requirements for selling insurance. Most states, however, require a separate license to sell life, health and property insurance.
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Complete a pre-licensing course. Some states require a pre-licensing course before granting a license. If the state requires this course, it is usually scheduled with the state department of insurance. Each state is different, however, typical information included in the courses are state-specific insurance laws, ethics and consumer protection responsibilities. Passing the course will make you eligible to sit for the state exams.
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Pass an exam for each type of insurance you plan on selling. Request study guide materials from the state department of insurance to prepare. Passing an exam for each insurance type makes you eligible to sell insurance in your home state.
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Complete an application. The state may require you provide proof of passing the pre-licensing course and state administered exam with application materials. After reviewing your application and supporting documents, the state will issue you a license.
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Apply for renewal. Most states require license renewal every two years, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Ask about continuing education requirements. For example, the state may require continuing education in insurance laws and practices before issuing a renewal.
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Tips & Warnings
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, companies typically prefer to hire individuals with a bachelor's degree. Majors in marketing, accounting, math and finance are desirable. However, some insurance agents start selling insurance through on-the-job experience.
If you move to another state, check with the new state's department of insurance. You will likely need to take another exam to be licensed in the new state.
