
To represent an insurance company, a licensed agent must be appointed by the company. This appointment is a formal agreement between the agent and the insurance company.
The appointment process typically involves the agent submitting an application to the insurance company, which is then reviewed and approved. The agent must also meet the company's requirements for licensure and experience.
In order to be appointed, the agent must have a valid insurance license in the state where they plan to sell policies. This license is issued by the state's insurance department after the agent has completed the required training and passed a licensing exam.
The agent's appointment is typically valid for a specific period of time, and may be renewed or terminated by either party.
Check this out: Insurance Adjuster License Requirements by State
What is a Licensed Agent?
A licensed agent is an individual who has been appointed by an insurance company to sell and service their products. They must meet specific requirements to become licensed.
Licensed agents typically have a thorough understanding of insurance policies and laws, which enables them to advise clients on the best coverage options for their needs. They are also responsible for handling client inquiries and resolving any issues that may arise.
To become a licensed agent, one must undergo training and pass a licensing exam. This ensures they have the necessary knowledge to provide accurate information to clients.
A licensed agent's appointment by an insurance company grants them the authority to sell and service the company's products, but it does not necessarily imply a long-term employment contract.
Appointing a Licensed Agent
A licensed agent must be appointed by an insurance company to conduct business. This is a crucial step in becoming a valid agent.
To become an appointed agent, you'll need to submit a request to the insurance company. This can be done through their official channels, where you can also inquire about expanding or terminating your current appointment.
An appointment from the insurance company is required, and it's not the same as being a licensed agent. Even if you're licensed, you still need an active appointment to conduct business.
Here are some key things to know about appointments:
- Being a licensed agent is not sufficient to conduct insurance business - you must also have an appointment from an insurance company.
- If you allow 48 months to elapse without an active appointment, you will lose your license altogether.
It's worth noting that an unaffiliated agent who self-appoints is an exception to this rule. However, this is not a common scenario, and most agents will need to go through the appointment process with an insurance company.
Agent vs. Broker
A licensed agent must be appointed by an insurance company, but what does that mean in terms of their role? An agent represents New York authorized companies for which they have been appointed.
To become an appointed agent, a notice of appointment must be electronically submitted to the Department within 15 days from the date the agency contract is executed, or the first insurance application is submitted. This is a crucial step in the process.
A life broker, on the other hand, represents the insured and can place business with any New York authorized company that will accept it. Some companies will only accept business from appointed agents.
Prerequisite

To become a licensed agent, you'll need to meet the prerequisite of having a valid and appropriate license with the State Department of Insurance for which appointment is sought. This is a crucial step in the process.
Having a valid license ensures that you're qualified and authorized to represent the insurance company. It's like having a key to a locked door - without it, you won't be able to get in.
A valid license also shows that you've met the necessary requirements and qualifications set by the State Department of Insurance. This gives you the confidence to take on new challenges and responsibilities as a licensed agent.
If this caught your attention, see: How to Become a Licensed Insurance Agent in Washington State
Frequently Asked Questions
When a licensed agent must be appointed by an insurance company to solicit insurance in Florida the agent's license will terminate?
A licensed agent's license in Florida will terminate after 48 months if not reappointed by an insurance company. This 4-year period is a critical deadline for agents to maintain their active status.
Do insurance agents have to be licensed in Florida?
Yes, insurance agents in Florida must be licensed by the department and appointed by an authorized entity to operate legally. Licensing requirements are outlined in Section 626.112 of the Florida Statutes.
Sources
- https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx
- https://floridaschool.com/eschool/servlet/CourseZipServlet/154/
- https://www.aig.com/home/risk-solutions/why-aig/us-producer-appointment-and-licensing
- https://floridaschool.com/eschool/servlet/CourseZipServlet/154/
- https://www.dfs.ny.gov/apps_and_licensing/agents_and_brokers/lic_app_la_lb
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