How to Become a Car Insurance Agent
Insurance is a recession-proof line of work, which is why there are so many people getting into this business today. There is relatively little training needed to be able to enjoy such great job security. You will also be able to set your own hours and determine your own income. While you will need some education, breaking into this industry can be accomplished with the proper determination.
- Check with your state’s insurance department for a licensing course. Enroll in this course, which will last one to two weeks. There are also may be some weekend classes available that last three to four weeks.
- Complete any necessary coursework for your license. This may include information on home and business liability insurance, depending upon your state’s requirements. Even if you don’t plan to sell these types of insurance you will need to learn the information in order to get your license.
- Undergo a criminal background check and fingerprinting. This needs to be completed before you will be able to take the licensure exam.
- Take your state’s licensure exam. Usually a third party company will administer this in an electronic format. As soon as you complete the exam you will be told whether or not you have passed. Your results will then be submitted to the state’s insurance department on your behalf by the testing facility. If you pass, you will receive written confirmation of this before you leave the testing facility.
- Find a company offering competitive products for you to sell. It is up to you whether you want to work as a representative of just one company or if you want to represent multiple companies. Each of the companies that you work for will submit an appointment form to the state insurance department notifying them that you are now affiliated with that company.
- Anyone who plans to sell policies outside of their home state will need the company that they are working for to submit a “foreign agent” application to the other state’s insurance department. There are no additional testing requirements though. However, you must receive the license before you can provide quotes, discuss coverage or sell a policy in that other state.