Research the insurance lines you want to sell (life, health, property & casualty, annuities, etc.)
Check your state/province licensing requirements for insurance agents
Meet minimum eligibility requirements (age, residency, background checks if required)
Complete required pre-licensing education (course hours and approved providers)
Pass the required licensing exam(s)
Submit your license application with required documentation and fees
Complete any additional state-specific steps (fingerprinting, background check, application review)
Choose an insurance carrier or work with an agency/brokerage (if required)
Obtain required appointments/affiliations with carriers
Consider completing optional designations and training (industry-specific credentials)
Build a resume and sales materials (pitch, product knowledge, compliance-ready scripts)
Set up your compliance workflow (recordkeeping, disclosures, suitability requirements)
Create a lead generation plan (networking, referrals, marketing, partnerships)
Learn underwriting and claims basics for the products you sell
Develop customer service and follow-up processes
Maintain your license with continuing education and renewal fees
Stay current on regulations, product updates, and consumer protection rules