Last Updated on October 1, 2025 by Jacques Wong, B.Sc.
Few careers offer the opportunity to meaningfully help people, enjoy independence, and tap into a stable but growing industry. Becoming an insurance broker offers all of those opportunities, along with the potential to provide a rewarding income and flexible work. And it might be simpler than you think to get started.
Unlike insurance agents, who work for a single insurer, brokers represent clients and can shop for the best policy across multiple companies.
Whether you’re considering changing careers, have recently graduated from college, or are a retiree exploring ways to stay busy and pull in a little more money, this helpful guide will walk you through how to become an insurance broker in six clear steps.
Live in Ontario, BC, or Alberta? We have more detailed guides specific to each of these provinces:
- How to become an insurance broker in BC
- How to become an insurance broker in Ontario
- How to become an insurance broker in Alberta
Step 1. Understand the Role of an Insurance Broker
An insurance broker acts as a trusted advisor who helps clients find the best policies for their needs. Once you become a broker, you’ll be able to help your clients find the right auto, home, or business coverage.
However, shopping around to balance value with coverage needs is just part of what you’ll be doing.
An important aspect of this job is building relationships. That said, even if you’re not a “people person,” you can still thrive in the industry. Roles like underwriting, account management, or operations involve less face-to-face interaction than sales and may be a better fit for those who prefer behind-the-scenes work.
Here’s a closer look at some of the tasks you’ll be handling each day:
- Assessing clients’ needs and risks
- Recommending insurers and policies
- Building long-term relationships based on trust
A client-first approach is what sets brokers apart and makes the insurance broker career a fulfilling one. Whereas an agent can only offer products from their company, you’ll be able to expand your search, compare rates, and genuinely help people protect their interests.
To top it all off, you’ll enjoy a flexible schedule. You can use this extra time to complete continuing education (CE), engage in hobbies, acquire new clients, or work toward personal goals that will make you a more well-rounded broker.
Step 2. Meet the Basic Requirements
The Canadian insurance industry is tightly regulated. There are numerous regulatory bodies, including the Canadian Council of Insurance Regulators (CCIR) and the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI). Each province has its own unique regulations as well, which can further complicate matters.
However, many of the basic insurance broker requirements are consistent across all provinces. Here are a few examples:
- Age: You must be 18 or older
- Legal status: You must be legally eligible to work in Canada and have a clean criminal record (exceptions are allowed)
- Language skills: You must possess strong written and verbal English skills (and French in Quebec) to communicate with clients
- Licensing requirements: No matter which province you live in, you’ll need to pass an exam and get licensed
Meeting these basics ensures that you’re eligible to pursue your insurance broker license. Don’t underestimate the value of your communication skills, as you’ll need them to break down the differences between policy options and build relationships with your clients or insurers. The best insurance brokers are exceptional communicators.
Step 3. Complete Pre-Licensing Education
One of the most important steps to achieving your license as an insurance broker is completing your pre-licensing course. You’ll need to complete insurance broker training from a reputable provider, like PNC Learning.
Our interactive courses are designed to help you learn and retain critical information that you’ll need for your insurance broker exam. We offer courses for each province’s examination process, as well as continuing education programs designed to help you stay compliant and become a well-rounded broker.
PNC Learning’s online eLearning platform is flexible and user-friendly. We adapt to your learning style so you have the confidence you need to pass your exam. Our insurance exam prep courses include plain-language learning without the industry jargon, instant tutor support if you get stuck on a concept, and a guaranteed pass.
Whether you’re fitting coursework into your busy schedule as a parent and want mobile access, prefer a flexible course structure, or learn best with audio-driven content, you’ll find exactly what you need from PNC Learning.
Ready to jumpstart your journey with PNC Learning?
Start with a no-obligation free trial of any insurance prep course today.
Step 4. Pass the Licensing Exam
In Ontario, you’ll take the RIBO Level 1 exam, which is administered by the Insurance Brokers Association of Ontario (IBAO) or the Insurance Institute of Ontario (IIO). If you live in British Columbia, you’ll need to take the CAIB 1 or Fundamentals of Insurance exam offered by the Insurance Institute of BC. In Alberta, you need Alberta GLQP Level 1. All of these exams consist of multiple-choice questions and take about 2–3 hours to complete.
Passing your broker licensing exam starts with choosing the right prep course. With PNC Learning, you can study at your own pace and use our practice exams to simulate test conditions.
Make sure to take advantage of all of our different study tools to familiarize yourself with exam information in multiple formats. Explore our courses and set yourself up for success.
Step 5. Get Licensed and Register With a Regulatory Body
Once you pass your exam, you can apply for your insurance broker certification. In most provinces, your employer (a licensed brokerage) must sponsor your application. They’ll submit the sponsorship letter to the appropriate regulatory body.
Next, you’ll need to provide proof that you passed the exam and a copy of your government-issued ID. You can submit these online. You’ll also need to provide proof of your eligibility to work in Canada if you aren’t a citizen. The regulatory body will conduct a background check to verify that you have a clean criminal record.
In some cases, you may need to pay a licensing fee, which varies by province. Expect to spend $250–$350 for your license. As part of this process, you’ll be registered with the regulatory agency that oversees brokers in your province, such as the Insurance Council of BC or RIBO.
Step 6. Find a Brokerage or Start Your Own
Once you have your insurance broker certification, you have two paths: work for the brokerage that sponsored you or start your own. The second path requires additional licensing and registration, as well as the capital to set up.
Most new brokers start at an established brokerage to gain experience from seasoned peers. This is a great option, as you’ll be able to lean on knowledgeable brokers as you handle client inquiries and recommended policies. Networking with industry pros and attending job fairs can help you land a role or connect with mentors.
Don’t forget about ongoing insurance broker training requirements. You’ll need to complete annual CE hours regardless of whether you strike out on your own or go to work for another broker. PNC Learning has flexible online courses to help you meet your CE requirements and continue building your knowledge.
Skills and Traits of Successful Insurance Brokers
Here are some of the qualities you’ll need to thrive in your career as an insurance broker:
- People skills: Build rapport with underwriters and clients to understand their needs and earn trust
- Persistence: Follow up with clients and stay resilient in a competitive and changing market
- Problem-solving abilities: Overcome challenges to find the best policy for each client’s unique situation
- Compliance knowledge: Stay up to date on key regulations through continuing education so you can practice ethically
Most importantly, you must commit to continually getting better. Doing so will help you succeed as an insurance broker and deliver the best value for your clients.
Take Your First Step With PNC Learning
Now that you know how to become an insurance broker, it’s time to take your first steps toward a rewarding career. Use our step-by-step guide to get a head start on your journey.
With PNC Learning’s online courses and support, you’ll have everything you need to find success. Start your journey with a free preview of any insurance course.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Being an Insurance Broker Difficult?
No. Aside from passing the licensing exam, there are no other educational requirements. As part of our program, we teach core concepts as simply as possible and support you every step of the way. PNC Learning can provide a clear path to passing your exam and equip you with the skills you need to serve clients.
How Do I Become an Insurance Broker in Canada?
The process of becoming an insurance broker in Canada can be broken down into three simple steps:
- Study with PNC Learning
- Pass the exam
- Look for a job
Your employer will sponsor your license and help you with the application process. Having an experienced broker in your corner can create a clear path to getting to work.
Can Insurance Brokers Make Good Money?
Absolutely. You can make a comfortable salary as an insurance broker in Canada, with average pay ranging from $59,438 for entry-level positions to $135,058 on average for a senior-level position. There’s plenty of need for brokers, and the demand is expected to increase. The opportunity is there—PNC Learning can help you capitalize on it.
What Is the Difference Between an Insurance Agent and a Broker?
An agent represents one insurer. As a broker, you can represent multiple insurers. In most provinces (except Ontario), the same license is required. In Ontario, you would need to take the OTL to become an agent.
For instance, if you worked for Desjardin or Cooperators, you would be an agent. When helping clients, you could only sell policies from that company — you couldn’t sell for other insurers, such as Intact.
Generally speaking, becoming a broker provides more job opportunities and exposure to multiple insurers. That experience will help you find the best options for your clients.