Last Updated on September 10, 2025 by Jacques Wong, B.Sc.
Whether you’re changing careers, have just graduated, or are retired and looking for a way to earn some extra income, becoming an insurance broker in Ontario can be a rewarding option. Getting your Registered Insurance Broker of Ontario (RIBO) license will let you help clients navigate their insurance needs as you build a stable, flexible career.
Understanding the RIBO license requirements is the first step to success. Here’s how to do that.
Who Needs a RIBO License?
A RIBO license is required for anyone who wants to work as a general insurance broker in Ontario. This Ontario insurance license covers a wide range of products, including auto, home, and business insurance. Unlike a life insurance license, which covers life and health policies, the RIBO certification focuses on property and casualty insurance.
Want to advise clients on car insurance or homeowners’ policies? If so, you’ll need to take and pass the RIBO exam.
RIBO License Requirements Overview
There are several boxes you’ll have to check to earn your Ontario insurance license. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Age and Legal Eligibility
Before submitting your RIBO license application, you’ll need to meet the basic requirements. Luckily, these are pretty minimal. You must be:
- At least 18 years old
- Legally eligible to work in Canada
That’s it.
Education and Training Requirements
Next, you’ll need to prepare for your exam. Some of the topics that will be covered in the course include:
- Ethics
- Basic insurance principles
- Laws and compliance requirements
PNC Learning offers a comprehensive RIBO Level 1 exam prep course. By thoughtfully breaking down essential concepts and offering practical examples, we help you connect to our educational materials in a meaningful way. Plan to spend about 3-4 weeks (60-100 hours) reviewing the course material to ensure that you’re adequately prepared for the exam.
Passing the RIBO Level 1 Exam
On exam day, you’ll be prompted to answer questions about:
- Insurance principles & products
- Ontario insurance laws and regulations
- Professional ethics and client interactions
The Insurance Brokers Association of Ontario (IBAO) and the Insurance Institute of Canada (IIC) administer the exam. It’s a multiple-choice test, and you’ll need to achieve a passing score of at least 75%. Here are some study tips to help you succeed:
- Take advantage of targeted study materials
- Focus on key areas like Ontario’s insurance regulations
- Take practice exams to build confidence
Language and Communication Skills
Putting your RIBO broker license to work means more than just knowing the rules; you’ll also need to be able to explain them clearly.
You’ll need to break down complex information for your clients and help them identify the right insurance policies that meet their needs. Strong written and verbal skills are vital to ensure clarity in client interactions and documentation.
If English isn’t your first language, consider brushing up on professional communication. You can do this via self-guided practice or by enrolling in additional courses.
Learn more about the RIBO Exam and what to expect.
Applying for Your RIBO License
After you’ve passed your exam, you can apply for your license through the RIBO website. You’ll need:
- Proof of a passing exam score
- A valid photo ID
- Proof of eligibility to work in Canada
- A brokerage (employer) to sponsor you
Once you’ve been hired, your sponsoring broker will submit a letter to RIBO on your behalf. You or your sponsor also need to pay the $350 license fee. After that, you’ll receive your license in 1–2 weeks. Just make sure to include all required documents to avoid any delays.
Working Under Supervision
Once you obtain your insurance broker license in Ontario, you must work under supervision for a set period. You’ll operate under the guidance of an experienced, licensed broker or principal broker. During this time, you’ll:
- Handle client interactions with oversight to ensure compliance
- Learn practical skills like recommending policies
- Build confidence in applying what you’ve learned in the books to real-world scenarios
You’ll typically need to be supervised until your employer determines that you’re ready to work on your own.
Maintaining Your RIBO License
Earning your RIBO license is just the beginning. To keep it active, you must:
- Complete continuing education (CE)
- Pay annual license renewal fees to RIBO
- Adhere to RIBO’s code of conduct and ethical standards
RIBO requires you to complete 8 hours of continuing education annually. PNC Learning makes it easy to stay current on the latest industry trends and legal updates with our RIBO-compliant CE courses. Explore our CE courses for RIBO license holders to keep your license up to date.
Sign Up With PNC Learning Today
Becoming a Registered Insurance Broker in Ontario is straightforward and simple.
You’ll need to meet the RIBO license requirements, complete an accredited course, pass your exam, and apply through a sponsoring employer. With dedication and the right resources, such as PNC Learning’s prep course, you can pass your exam with confidence.
Ready to start preparing for your RIBO 1 exam? PNC Learning can help. Sign up for our RIBO License Course to jumpstart your insurance career.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Get a RIBO License in Canada?
The RIBO licensing process can be broken down into three simple steps:
- Complete a RIBO-complaint exam prep course, like PNC Learning’s RIBO Level 1
- Pass the RIBO Level 1 exam
- Secure a job with a licensed brokerage, which will sponsor your RIBO license application
How Long Does It Take to Get an Insurance Broker License?
It typically takes 3-4 weeks (60-100 hours) to study and pass the RIBO exam. Next, you’ll need to find a job. Your job search timetable will vary depending on what’s available at the time and how diligent you are. Once you’re sponsored by a broker and submit your application, it will take 1-2 weeks for RIBO to process your paperwork.
What Does “RIBO” Mean in Insurance?
“RIBO” stands for “Registered Insurance Brokers of Ontario.” It’s the regulatory body that oversees general insurance brokers in Ontario, Canada. RIBO manages licensing, CE requirements, complaints, and disciplinary actions.
How Much Is a RIBO License in Ontario?
Here are the primary costs of getting your RIBO license:
- Course: $249 with PNC Learning’s exam prep program
- Exam Fee: $300, paid to the exam provider
- Licensing Fee: $350, paid to RIBO
In total, you can expect to pay approximately $900 plus taxes and processing fees to obtain your RIBO license.
Ready to start preparing for your RIBO 1 exam?
PNC Learning can help. Sign up for our RIBO License Course to jumpstart your insurance career.