Education · 1 of 4

The path

Hired first, licensed within months, trained on the job. No degree required.

1. 1

   High school

   Grade 12

   Job Bank says completion of secondary school is usually all that is required. Business, English and math help.

2. 2

   Get hired

   Weeks to months

   Many brokerages hire unlicensed people into customer service and train them. A college diploma in insurance or business helps but is not required.

3. 3

   Pass the licensing exam

   1 to 3 months of study

   Ontario: the RIBO (Registered Insurance Brokers of Ontario) Level 1 exam. Alberta: the General Licence Qualification Program exam through the Alberta Insurance Council. Each province has its own.

4. 4

   Work under supervision

   1 to 2 years

   Quote and bind home and auto policies, handle renewals, learn the products. Higher licence levels come with experience and more exams.

5. 5

   Specialize

   3 or more years in

   Commercial lines, farm, marine, or move into management or your own brokerage.