There are a few different types of insurance brokerages, each with its own set of requirements. The most common type of brokerage is an independent insurance broker. These firms are not owned by an insurance company, and they work with multiple carriers to find the best coverage and prices for their clients. To become an independent insurance broker, you will need to pass a state licensing exam and complete some pre-licensing education courses. Some states also require you to have a certain amount of experience working in the insurance industry before you can obtain your license.
Another type of insurance brokerage is a captive agent brokerage. These firms are owned by an insurance company and only sell that company’s products. If you want to become a captive agent, you will need to go through the training program offered by the insurer you wish to represent. Once you have completed the training, you will be able to take the state licensing exam for that particular insurer.
The last type of brokerage is a health insurance exchange, which is set up under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Health exchanges are online marketplaces where people can comparison shop for health plans offered by different insurers. If you want to become a health exchange navigator or assist people in enrolling in ACA-compliant plans, you will need to take some specific courses and pass an examination administered by your state’s Department of Insurance.