Such courses are offered by the Insurance Brokers Association of B.C., the Canadian Accredited Insurance Brokers and the Insurance Institute of Canada. Applicants for a salesperson's licence need not have insurance experience. People entering at Agent Level 2 require more courses than a salesperson to meet the licensing requirements but do not require insurance experience. Salespeople are more restricted than agents in the work they are licensed to perform. B.C. There are different licence classifications for different types of insurance agents.
Progression is possible through a combination of education, experience and examinations.
Continuing education is also required to maintain a licence. Insurance agents and brokers should be able to communicate effectively and be persuasively persistent. They should have an interest in details and in helping people achieve their financial goals. Since they usually work without supervision, they must be able to plan their time well. Mathematics and computer skills are important, as is a willingness to work long hours.