Bluefire Insurance

Want to work in a field that gives you solid earnings opportunities, the ability to help others get the financial protection they need from everyday risks, and make a difference in your local community? Becoming an independent agent in the Mid-Atlantic might make sense. 

But what does it take to be an agent in this part of the U.S.? Each state has its own requirements, though they do have significant similarities. Here’s a step-by-step guide to becoming an independent insurance agent in the Mid-Atlantic. 

What It Takes to Be an Independent Insurance Agent 

Becoming an independent agent involves channeling personality traits that insurance professionals need, work habits, and skills into an effective formula for connecting clients with their risk management needs. 

While a college degree isn’t on the list of insurance agent requirements, it may be helpful to have a degree related to finance or business to help give you the skills you need to become a better agent. 

But the most important credential you’ll need in this field is a license. 

Independent Agent Requirements in the Mid-Atlantic: State-by-State Breakdown 

So, what does it take to be an insurance agent where you live? Each Mid-Atlantic state has specific steps and qualifications to become an insurance agent. 

New York 

To get your insurance license in New York, follow these essential steps: 

• Complete Pre-Licensing Education: 20-40 hours of coursework, depending on the policy type. 

• Pass the State Exam: Administered by the New York Department of Financial Services. 

• Apply for a License: Submit an application through the National Insurance Producer Registry (NIPR). 

New Jersey 

Here’s what you need to do to obtain an insurance license in New Jersey: 

• Educational Requirement: Complete 24 hours of pre-licensing courses. 

• Exam and Fingerprinting: Pass the licensing exam and undergo fingerprinting. 

• Application: Apply for the license via the NIPR. 

Pennsylvania 

Follow these steps to get licensed in Pennsylvania: 

• Pre-Licensing Education: 24 hours of study in your desired insurance line. 

• Exam: Pass the Pennsylvania Insurance Department exam. 

• Application: Submit the license application through NIPR. 

Maryland 

In Maryland, here’s the process to become a licensed insurance agent: 

• Education: No pre-licensing education is required for many lines, but study materials are recommended. 

• Exam: Pass the Prometric-administered state exam. 

• Application: Apply via the Maryland Insurance Administration. 

Delaware 

For Delaware insurance licensing, complete these steps: 

• Education: Complete required pre-licensing courses. 

• Exam: Pass the state-specific licensing exam. 

• Application: Apply online through NIPR. 

Washington D.C. 

To get licensed in Washington D.C., follow these steps: 

• Education: Complete required pre-licensing courses. 

• Exam: Pass the Pearson VUE-administered licensing exam. 

• Application: Submit your license application through NIPR. 

Virginia 

In Virginia, here’s what you need to do to obtain an insurance license: 

• Education: Complete 16-20 hours of coursework. 

• Exam: Pass the licensing exam and submit fingerprints for a background check. 

• Application: Apply via Sircon or NIPR. 

West Virginia 

For licensing in West Virginia, follow these steps: 

• Education: Pre-licensing courses required. 

• Exam: Pass the West Virginia Insurance Commissioner’s exam. 

• Application: Apply online via NIPR. 

Is Becoming an Independent Insurance Agent Right for You? 

But what do insurance agents really do? You might also be asking how to be a successful agent. 

The most successful agents who operate independently as opposed to working in an exclusive setting have a few traits in common. First, they enjoy working with people and solving problems. If you also enjoy helping everyday people solve complex problems related to their personal financial situations, then you might also enjoy this aspect of the job. 

Second, agents have a high tolerance for fluctuations in month-to-month sales. That’s because agents earn their keep based on commissions, and commissions only come from generating sales. You’ll need to be comfortable with the fact that commissions can come and go, and it’s important to stay the course even during dry spells. 

Finally, there’s a degree of business ownership involved in being an independent agent as opposed to working in-house. You’ll need to find creative solutions to generate leads, close prospects, and continue to generate repeat business, including all the marketing and accounting infrastructure that comes with these activities. 

If all this sounds good to you and you feel you have or can build on these skills for agents, then you’ll find yourself in a career that gives you significant earning potential while also running your own business! 

Resources for Aspiring Independent Insurance Agents 

If you’re looking for resources to help jumpstart your career, take a look at these: 

• The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) provides valuable tools and regulatory information for agents. 

• Trade publications like Independent Agent Magazine and Insurance Journal keep agents updated on industry trends and best practices. 

• The American College of Financial Services offers certifications and continuing education for professionals in the industry. 

Join Bluefire as an Independent Agent 

Becoming an independent agent in the Mid-Atlantic requires strong communication, organizational, and sales skills, alongside resilience and an entrepreneurial spirit. Legal insurance agent requirements include pre-licensing education, passing state-specific exams, and submitting applications through platforms like NIPR. Each state in the region, from New York to West Virginia, has tailored steps for licensing, but all emphasize understanding industry products and regulations. 

Bluefire Insurance is the ideal partner for independent agents in the Mid-Atlantic. With access to a wide range of products, industry support, and tools to grow your business, our team makes it easier to succeed. Learn more and become a producer today!