Bluefire Insurance

If you’re looking for a career in sales, becoming an independent insurance agent can make a lot of sense for you if you want to be paid for performance. The beauty of the industry is that everyone needs a car insurance policy by government mandate. But what does it take to be an insurance agent? 

Becoming a good agent involves not just meeting the minimum requirements but also becoming a trusted advisor to your clients. This guide will give you both a solid understanding of the basic requirements in Washington, as well as insider tips on how to become a truly successful agent. 

What it Takes to Be an Independent Insurance Agent 

You ideally need the following job skills that help you become a better agent: 

• Entrepreneurial Spirit: As a salesperson, you “eat what you kill.” So you need to have the wherewithal to go out there and secure new business. This is one of the most essential skills for insurance agent aspirants. 

• Resilience: This isn’t a business for the faint of heart. Each day, you will encounter difficult clients, competition, and new regulatory challenges. Staying cool under pressure makes all the difference. 

• Interpersonal Skills: Building trust and lasting relationships with clients is key. If you can’t win your clients’ trust, you can’t sell them a policy. 

• Problem-Solving Skills: Assessing clients’ needs and finding the best insurance options requires careful analysis and an in-depth conversation about what they’re looking to achieve, whether that’s financial security, protection from significant risks, or something else entirely. 

Independent Insurance Agent Requirements in the Pacific Northwest: State-by-State Breakdown 

Each state has its own qualifications to become an insurance agent, although there is also a lot of crossover between them. Here’s what you need to know about becoming an insurance agent in Washington. 

Washington 

Washington’s licensing requirements include: 

• Pre-Licensing Education: Washington requires 20 hours of pre-licensing education per line of coverage (e.g., property, casualty, life, or disability). 

• Licensing Exam: You must pass the Washington Insurance Licensing Exam. The exam is administered by Pearson VUE and tests both state-specific regulations and general insurance knowledge. 

• Background Check: Washington requires fingerprinting and a criminal background check before you can receive your license. 

• Application Process: After passing the exam, apply for your license through NIPR or directly through the Washington Office of the Insurance Commissioner. 

• Fees: The state charges an application fee (typically around $55) for the initial licensing and additional fees for fingerprinting (around $50). 

• Continuing Education: Washington requires 24 hours of continuing education every two years to maintain your license, including 3 hours of ethics. 

How to Be a Successful Insurance Agent 

Just getting your license isn’t enough. Becoming a truly successful insurance agent in the northwest involves having a knack for bringing in new clients, finding out what their problems are, and solving those problems with custom-tailored solutions. 

On top of that, you need to retain clients for the long haul — and that requires working on your “EQ,” or emotional intelligence. 

Finally, you should have strong business acumen. Courses in accounting, finance, and marketing can help here. 

This isn’t an exhaustive list of the traits that all agents and professionals need, however. 

Resources for Aspiring Independent Insurance Agents 

Here are some great sources for new and aspiring agents (and veterans in the industry, too): 

• NIPR: NIPR allows you to keep track of applying for and renewing licenses across all the states. It’s invaluable. 

• Small Business Administration: The SBA has great resources for new agents. 

• IIABA: This association represents members of the industry and their employees. 

• WebCE: This company offers courses that allow you to get CE credits. 

• Insurance Journal: This is an excellent publication for industry members. It also covers important certifications for insurance professionals. 

Is Becoming an Independent Insurance Agent Right for You? 

Becoming an independent agent could be a great fit if you’re entrepreneurial, self-motivated, and enjoy building relationships. You’ll need to be resilient and proactive as you’ll be managing your own business, handling marketing, client acquisition, and navigating industry regulations. 

If you thrive in environments where you have control over your schedule and income potential, and you have strong problem-solving and interpersonal skills, this career can be highly rewarding. 

The Best Place for Independent Insurance Agents No Matter Your Location 

This guide has shown you how to get started as an agent in the PNW. You learned about the state licensure requirements for Washington, as well as how to be a successful agent in this competitive world. 

Ready to take the next step? Find out why agents thrive in partnership with Bluefire. Contact us today to become a producer!