Last Updated on April 27, 2026 by Jacques Wong, B.Sc.
Experts predict moderate job growth for insurance brokers through 2026 due to retirements and a demand for new brokers. If you live in Ontario and want to capitalize on this outlook, this guide will help you better understand the journey ahead of you.
The Registered Insurance Brokers of Ontario (RIBO) is the insurance regulatory body in Ontario. This organization grants RIBO licenses, which authorize brokers to represent clients and sell personal and commercial insurance in the province. However, a RIBO license does not allow you to become an insurance agent—for that, you’ll need an Other Than Life (OTL) license.
Now that you know what license you’ll need, the next question is how long it will take you to get your RIBO license. The answer is that it depends on the pace of your studies and how active you are during your job search efforts, but at a minimum, it may take as little as five weeks.
Here’s everything you need to know about RIBO insurance licensing requirements in Ontario and how to make sure you get licensed fast.
What Is the RIBO License?
The RIBO license is a mandatory certification for anyone who wants to work as a general insurance broker in Ontario. It demonstrates your knowledge of industry regulations, insurance products, and ethical standards.
There are 3 levels of individual RIBO licenses, which are as follows:
- Level 1: For entry-level brokers who work under the supervision of a Principal Broker
- Level 2: For individuals with expertise in commercial and technical insurance
- Level 3: For individuals qualified to act as a Deputy Principal Broker, Supervising Broker, or Principal Broker
Obtaining your Level 1 license is sufficient to get hired at an insurance brokerage and kickstart your career. You’ll need to pass the Level 1 exam and be employed at a licensed brokerage to fully activate your license. You’ll work under a Principal Broker when you first enter the profession.
It’s important to note that Ontario is the only province that differentiates between agents and brokers—other provinces use the terms interchangeably.
Becoming an insurance agent in Ontario authorizes you to represent one insurance company, meaning you can only sell products from that insurer. You’ll need to take your Other Than Life (OTL) Exam to become an agent.
On the other hand, a broker can offer clients the best choice of insurers and products. As a broker, you can serve a wider range of clients and explore different insurance solutions from insurance providers globally to meet each client’s unique needs.
Steps to Getting a RIBO License
In order to obtain your RIBO license in Ontario, you’ll need to take the following steps:
1. Meet the Eligibility Requirements
Before you begin the insurance licensing process, you must meet the following basic requirements:
- Have a valid government-issued ID
- Be at least 18 years of age
You don’t need any prior insurance experience or post-secondary education to get your Level 1 license, which makes it a great starting point for individuals of all ages. Whether you’re just entering the workforce, making a career change, or looking for a part-time job during retirement, you can dive into the world of insurance sales in Ontario by obtaining your RIBO license.
2. Study for the RIBO Exam
Most people spend 4 – 8 weeks studying for the RIBO Level 1 exam. Your timeline will vary based on how familiar you are with the material and how consistently you study. Using structured learning tools like an exam prep course can help you learn and retain important information needed for the exam.
It’s also important to consider common student challenges you may encounter, including:
- The overwhelming volume of material
- Industry jargon that’s difficult to understand
- Memorizing and applying key concepts
Fortunately, there are a few different study options available to help you prepare. Although there are no official insurance course providers in Ontario, PNC Learning offers an exam prep course with self-paced online tutorials for the entry-level broker exam. PNC Learning works with RIBO to engage in best practices and exam content changes.
At PNC Learning, our courses are designed to help you quickly learn and retain complex information. We provide clear, plain-language learning and focus on the information you need to pass the exam. Our platform is organized with tools like quizzes, examples, and memory aids to reinforce learning.
Here are some of the best practices our students use to improve their retention levels and pass rates:
- Print your notes and annotate them as you go (handwritten notes improve recall)
- Turn your notes into a custom study package
- Use a pen first, then highlight concepts you’re having trouble with
- In your final review, focus only on the highlighted sections
- Make use of practice quizzes and exams
Once you’re confident that you’re ready for the exam, you can choose a date and location. Remember, you don’t need to apply for a license yet. You’ll start looking for a job and apply for your license after passing the exam.
3. Take the RIBO Level 1 Exam
The RIBO 1 exam is a multiple-choice test with 100 questions and 15 pilot questions (115 questions in total). You’ll have 3 hours to complete the exam. You must achieve a score of at least 75% to pass. The exam is $300 per attempt. You should receive the unofficial pass/fail exam results within 48 hours of writing the exam but official results won’t come out until 14 days later. You need the official results for the license application but if you know you’ve passed, you can start looking for work right away.
If you don’t pass the exam the first time, you can retake it later. However, we recommend taking time to revisit your weakest areas using your own highlighted and annotated notes before booking a retest.
RIBO doesn’t provide an official study book or learning materials, so you’ll need to seek out your own resources. Fortunately, PNC Learning offers a downloadable 125-page RIBO 1 textbook and a downloadable by-laws and regulations textbook, giving you everything you need to know without any jargon.
View RIBO 1 course details, then scroll to “What’s included.”
4. Secure Employment With a Brokerage
This next step often causes a bit of confusion.
Contrary to what many people believe, you don’t need to apply for a RIBO license before finding a job. Instead, you pass the exam and then start applying for jobs right away. Remember, you’ll have to work under a Principal Broker. That’s why RIBO requires you to gain employment before activating your license.
Once you’ve been hired, you’ll apply for your license through RIBO, with your Principal Broker acting as your sponsor. Finding a position may take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. Factors that could impact your job search include your availability, location, and how active you are during the application process.
5. Submit Your RIBO License Application
After you’ve secured employment, your sponsoring brokerage will submit your application to RIBO. This includes all necessary documentation, application fees, and confirmation of your exam results. You’ll be responsible for paying the application fee, which is $330 for a new license. License renewals are $220 annually.
When RIBO sends you your confirmation, you’ll officially be a licensed insurance broker. This process typically takes 2–4 weeks.
How Long Does It Take Overall?
Here’s a breakdown of the typical timeline to get a RIBO license:
- Studying for the Exam: 4 – 8 weeks
- Scheduling the Exam: 1 – 2 weeks
- Finding a Job: 2 – 8 weeks (varies widely)
- Completing the RIBO Application Process: 2 – 4 weeks
The biggest variables are how quickly you absorb the material and how long it takes you to find a job.
The type of training program you sign up for will also impact your timeline. Before choosing a program, however, it’s important to consider your unique learning preferences. Decide between self-study vs. structured learning programs. The latter can help keep you accountable but may not provide the flexibility you need.
Online accredited insurance training programs can make it easier to meet both your personal and work obligations. This adaptability can mean a faster path to licensure.
PNC Learning is the go-to resource for preparing for the RIBO exam. Our interactive learning resources promote information retention and set you up for success. PNC Learning can also help with other licensing pathways, including the Life License Qualification Program (LLQP). Our accredited LLQP course prepares you for the LLQP exam so you can become an Ontario life insurance agent.
Get Your RIBO License Faster
If you’re looking to fast-track your way into the insurance industry, choosing the right study method makes all the difference. Our exam prep courses for insurance brokers:
- Cut out unnecessary content
- Focus only on what you need to know
- Provide content in plain language, not confusing industry jargon
- Tutor support from a licensed instructor
- Offer 24/7 availability
No other RIBO prep provider offers this combination of simplicity, support, and a track record of student success. PNC Learning also offers online insurance courses in Canada for continuing education.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Hard Is the RIBO Exam?
The RIBO exam can be challenging, especially for those unfamiliar with insurance terminology. Many students struggle with the volume of material and applying key concepts.
Focused study tools, practice exams and tutor support from PNC Learning help many students pass on their first attempt. Set yourself up for success with PNC Learning.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a RIBO License in Ontario?
RIBO license costs include exam fees, study materials, and licensing application fees. Overall, you can expect to spend $300 on your exam and $330 for your license. Don’t forget to account for study prep materials as well.
All-in-one exam prep packages from PNC Learning offer the most bang for your buck while also giving you the tools you need to pass your exam.
How Long Does It Take to Get Your License in Ontario?
Once you submit your RIBO license application, it will most likely take around 2–4 weeks to process your information and email your license confirmation with next steps on how to set up your account on RIBO’s portal, IRIS. The timeline may vary depending on RIBO’s processing times and whether you correctly submit all required documents with your application.
Is There High Demand for RIBO-Licensed Professionals?
Overall, the current demand for RIBO-licensed professionals is strong. Private equity firms have been investing heavily in the brokerage space, which has helped increase job growth. These investments are projected to continue.
Market cycles and economic fluctuations can also influence demand. Brokers see increased demand during hard markets (in light of rising premiums) but face price competition in soft markets. Economic turbulence can create new opportunities for brokers, too, as consumers and businesses seek cost-effective coverage.