How to Become an Insurance Broker in Florida

Insurance brokers act as independent agents who help clients find and purchase insurance policies. They offer clients options from many different insurance companies, rather than working exclusively with one insurance agency. Florida has a robust insurance market, and becoming a licensed insurance broker can lead to a lucrative career.

Part 1: Preparing for a Career as an Insurance Broker

Step 1: Identify Opportunities in Your Area

• Job Market Growth: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 9% job growth for insurance brokers from 2014 to 2024.
• Florida Market: There are over 200,000 people working in the insurance field in Florida. Metropolitan areas tend to have higher concentrations of brokers.
• Research Job Boards: Check job boards in your city or target work area to gauge the strength of the insurance job market.

Step 2: Complete the Necessary Education Requirements

• High School Education: You must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Higher Education: While not required, a bachelor’s degree in business, finance, or a related field makes you a more attractive candidate for employers.

Step 3: Decide What Type of Insurance to Specialize In

• Specialization Areas:
  • Accident and Health Insurance
  • Automobile Insurance
  • Homeowners Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Professional Liability Insurance
  • Flood Insurance
• Licensing Requirements: Florida requires tailored pre-licensing coursework and a licensing exam for most specializations.

Part 2: Preparing and Applying for a License

Step 1: Find a Pre-Licensing Exam Course

• Course Requirements: Use the Florida Division of Insurance Agent and Agency Services License Qualifications to determine if your specialization requires a pre-licensing course.
• Course Options: Courses are offered both online and in classroom settings. Expect to spend at least 40 hours in a course.

Step 2: Complete the Pre-Licensing Course

• Course Completion: Submit proof of course completion before registering for the licensing exam.

Step 3: Register for the Florida Licensing Exam

• Registration Process: Register for the exam through Pearson VUE by creating an account and paying the $42 fee.

Step 4: Study for the Exam

• Study Materials: Use study books and online classes. Focus on the exam content guidelines specific to your specialization.

Step 5: Take the Licensing Exam

• Exam Details: The exam content varies by specialization. You can find exam content outlines through Pearson VUE.

Step 6: Submit Your Fingerprints

• Fingerprinting: Get fingerprinted through MorphoTrust USA. The cost is $45.80 plus local sales taxes.

Step 7: Create a MyProfile

• Online Portal: Register with the Florida Department of Financial Services’ Bureau of Licensing online portal.
• Application Fees: Pay the $50 application fee and $5 for the license ID.

Part 3: Working as an Insurance Broker in Florida

Step 1: Apply for an Appointment

• Authorization: An appointment authorizes you to act as an agent of the insurer. Use the eappoint online portal to apply.
• Fee: Each appointment costs $60.

Step 2: Renew Your License

• Renewal Requirement: Florida agent and adjuster licenses do not need periodic renewal but will expire if no appointment is received within 48 months.
• Reapplication: If your license expires, you must start the licensing process again.

Step 3: Take Continuing Education Courses

• CE Courses: Required for many insurance lines. Submit proof of completion through MyProfile.
• Penalty: There is a $250 fine for failing to submit required CE course proof.

Step 4: Transfer Your License if You Leave Florida

• Reciprocity: Some states will accept your Florida insurance license with full reciprocity. Check the requirements of the state you are moving to.

By following these steps, you can become a licensed insurance broker in Florida and build a successful career in the insurance industry.