Insurance agents enjoy lucrative and flexible careers while helping people protect their families, businesses, and financial legacies. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the need for qualified insurance agents will rise by 10% over the next several years. This impressive growth rate makes this the ideal career path for those seeking new opportunities. How does someone become a licensed insurance agent? What role do insurance license classes play in building a satisfying and long-term career?

Possible Paths to Licensure

An insurance career can begin in a variety of ways. However, most agents find themselves on this path in these ways.

• Promotion in a current position. For those employed in administrative and clerical positions in an insurance office, obtaining a license may be a gateway to getting a promotion to sales.
• Entrepreneurial endeavors. Self-employed professionals involved in tax preparation, bookkeeping, and financial planning can add insurance licensure to their list of available services.
• Sales professionals seeking better compensation. Natural born salespeople are drawn to the insurance field for its high-income potential and long-term profitability.

Each state has its own unique licensing process and requirements. However, most of them include these minimum requirements. Applicants must:

• Possess a valid high school diploma.
• Complete an approved insurance training course.
• Pass an official knowledge test.

These requirements ensure that future agents have the legal and procedural knowledge necessary to properly create insurance contracts in their chosen specialty. After achieving licensure, continuing education courses may be necessary to maintain your credentials.

The Importance of Insurance License Classes

The majority of states require aspiring agents to complete a course before attempting to take the licensing examination. These courses form the backbone of an agent’s working knowledge. Some of the essential information covered in these courses include:

• State, federal, and local laws that apply to the administration of insurance policies.
• Basic contract requirements for agents and subscribers.
• Fundamentals of insurance coverage and the practical application of these financial interests.

Many courses also offer instruction in ethics, consumer protection, and the technical aspects of insurance coverage. Even if these courses aren’t required for licensure in your area, completing insurance license classes still benefit your career. These courses are designed to give you the knowledge you need in an efficient format. When compared to self-study efforts, these classes improve your test performance and ensure your information is accurate and up-to-date.

After licensure, most new agents receive additional training from their employer or by working with a more experienced agent for a short period of time. This allows them to put into practice what they’ve learned without risking negative legal repercussions.

A career in insurance is the ideal path for those who seek independence, high earning potential, and unlimited opportunities. Put yourself in the best position for success with insurance license classes.

Catherine Gomez