How to Get an Insurance License
Obtaining an insurance license in your state (or other states in which you have interest in doing business) is not difficult, if you know what to expect, and can fulfill the requirements. It is important to understand that passing the test and "being licensed" are not the same thing; and that the process is slightly different from state to state. The following should help increase your knowledge in this regard.
Job Specifics and Skill set Required
Insurance sales agents, sometimes referred to as “producers” represent and offer clients one or more types of insurance, such as, life, health, disability, auto, homeowner's etc.
Licensed property and casualty insurance agents handle policies that protect individuals and businesses from financial loss resulting from automobile accidents, fire, theft, wind, and other events that can damage or loss to property. In the business arena, property and casualty insurance can also provide workers’ compensation, premise liability coverage, or medical malpractice...to name a few.
Licensed life insurance producers sell policies that pay benefits when an insured policyholder dies. A whole life policy might be offered to provide a cash-value which may be used for retirement income, children college education, or anything the owner of the policy decides. Life insurance agents also sell annuities that can be used to supplement retirement income.
Licensed Health insurance agents offer health insurance policies that cover the costs of medical care and loss of income due to illness or injury. They also may sell dental insurance, disability insurance, long term care insurance and Medicare supplement policies.
Today, it is increasingly common for agents to be licensed in life & health as well as property & casualty, allowing them to sell all types of insurance.
Additionally in today’s market, an increasing number of insurance sales agents are offering comprehensive financial planning services to their clients. These services include retirement planning, estate planning, and assistance in setting up pension plans for businesses. As a result, any insurance agents are involved in “cross-selling”. In addition to offering insurance, agents commonly become licensed to sell mutual funds, variable annuities, and other securities.
Licensing and Training Required
Every person in every state involved in the “solicitation, selling, or negotiation of insurance” must have a state-issued license. Licensure requirements vary by state but typically require some insurance-related coursework and the passing of an exam.
Insurance sales agents must obtain a license in the states where they plan to work. Separate licenses are required for agents to sell life & health insurance and property & casualty insurance. The TESTivity course for both life & heath and property & casualty licensure includes:
Audio reinforced textbook
Audio reinforced flashcards
Mind Maps
Crossword puzzles
Downloadable MP3 audio course
Quizzes and practice exams
Following the completion of an approved training course, candidates must take a state licensing examination covering insurance fundamentals and state insurance laws.
Audio reinforced textbook
Audio reinforced flashcards
Mind Maps
Crossword puzzles
Downloadable MP3 audio course
Quizzes and practice exams