I recently graduated and have been applying for jobs at a few car insurance companies, but many have told me I must become an agent first. How can I become a car insurance agent?
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Pursuing a career in the insurance industry can be very rewarding (not that I’m biased or anything) but there are a few things you should know before becoming an insurance agent.
Working as a car insurance agent requires you to have a property and casualty license. Requirements for this license vary by state but in general, you will need to:
Meet the minimum education requirements for your state
Complete an insurance licensing course (typically 20-40 hours)
Pass the course exam (if there is one)
Pass the state licensing exam
Submit a licensing application to the state
Pass a background check
To find out your state’s specific licensing requirements, you should visit the state’s government website. It may also be helpful to speak with someone who currently works as an agent to better understand their licensing experience and develop a better understanding of what the work entails.
Once licensed, you can work directly for a specific insurance company or work for a company like
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