How to Become an Insurance Agent in India?

With increasing awareness of financial security and healthcare needs, the demand for insurance products in India is growing. As a result, becoming an insurance agent is now a popular and stable career option, whether you’re a student looking for part-time income, a retired professional, or someone exploring a mid-career switch.

Flexibility is one of the biggest attractions of this career. Insurance agents can create their schedules, decide which products they would like to sell, and even choose whether they would like to be an agent for one company or a representative of several insurers online. Keep reading to know how to become one!

What Is an Insurance Agent?

An insurance agent is a qualified expert authorised to sell insurance policies to individuals or corporate bodies on behalf of an insurance company. They act as intermediaries between the client and the insurer, translating policy language, advising on suitable coverage, and settling claims.

In India, insurance agents are required to be certified by the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI).

Once certified, they can represent a single insurer or multiple insurers, depending on the type of registration, and sell life, health, motor, or general insurance policies.

What Are the Types of Insurance Agents in India?

In India, insurance agents are typically categorised according to the nature of the products they sell. The two broad categories are:

1. General Insurance Agent

A general insurance agent deals with non-life insurance products. They are:

• Health insurance
• Motor insurance (car, motorbike, commercial vehicles)
• Travel insurance
• Home and property insurance
• Fire and liability cover

General insurance policies typically have short durations (1 year is the general principle), and agents usually receive renewal commissions if customers renew their policies. Agents must undergo IRDAI-prescribed training and an exam to be awarded a general insurance license.

2. Life Insurance Agent

A life insurance agent is eligible to sell insurance covers such as:

• Term insurance
• Endowment plans
• Money-back policies
• Unit Linked Insurance Plans (ULIPs)
• Retirement and pension plans

These agents assist individuals in selecting long-term financial protection and investment plans. Their earnings often come from high first-year commissions and smaller commissions on policy renewals.

Some agents opt to become composite agents, allowing them to sell both general and life insurance products, provided they complete training and pass separate exams for each stream.

How to Become an Insurance Agent in India?

The process to become an insurance agent in India is governed by the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI). While the core steps are similar for both life and general insurance agents, the training and licensing are separate for each.

1. For General Insurance Agents

Step 1: Register with an Insurance Company or Aggregator

Choose a general insurance company or an online aggregator. Some insurers allow direct registration on their websites through a ‘Become an Agent’ or ‘Careers’ section.

Step 2: Complete IRDAI-Prescribed Training

IRDAI mandates a 15-hour training module, available online or offline through company-affiliated training partners. You can refer to the official training content here: IRDAI PoSP Portal or the insurer’s internal portal.

Step 3: Pass the Licensing Exam

Once training is completed, you’ll need to take an online test (often conducted by the insurer or an IRDAI-authorised platform). The passing score is usually 35% or more.

Step 4: Receive Certification

On passing the exam, IRDAI issues a license allowing you to sell general insurance policies as a certified Point of Sale Person (PoSP) or agent.

2. For Life Insurance Agents

Step 1: Apply to a Life Insurance Company

Contact a trusted life insurance provider. You can visit their official websites and register under their agent/advisor programs.

Step 2: Undergo IRDAI-Approved Training

A mandatory 15-hour training must be completed via the company or an authorised institute. This training covers the basics of life insurance, ethics, product categories, and customer service.

Step 3: Appear for the Pre-Licensing Exam

This online test is conducted by the National Insurance Academy (NIA) or the insurer. You must score at least 17 out of 50 to qualify.

Step 4: Get an IRDAI Life Insurance Agent License

After clearing the test, you’ll receive a life insurance license from IRDAI. This license is usually valid for three years and is renewable.

Requirements and Qualifications to Become an Insurance Agent

To become insurance agent in India, you don’t need an advanced degree or years of experience. However, you must meet a few essential criteria set by IRDAI, along with certain skills that can help you succeed in this field.

1. Basic Eligibility Criteria

• Minimum Age: You must be at least 18 years old at the time of application.
• Educational Qualification: You should have passed at least the 10th standard (Class 10) from a recognised board.
• Training Completion: You must complete the mandatory 15-hour IRDAI training program from a registered training institute or insurer.
• Exam Qualification: You must pass the IRDAI pre-licensing exam for either general or life insurance (or both).
• Valid KYC Documents: Aadhaar card, PAN card, recent passport-sized photographs, and address proof are typically required during registration.

2. Desirable Skills and Qualities

Although not mandatory, the following traits can make you a more successful insurance agent:

• Good communication skills are needed to explain policies clearly.
• Customer-first mindset to build lasting relationships.
• Basic tech literacy is required, as most insurers now use digital platforms.
• Time management and self-discipline for flexible but productive work hours.
• Sales and persuasion ability, especially for complex or long-term policies.

Becoming an insurance agent in India is a viable and flexible career option. With low entry barriers, no need for a college degree, and the backing of IRDAI-regulated training and certification, anyone with the right mindset and communication skills can start their journey in this sector.

If you’re ready to explore this path, many insurers offer digital onboarding options. You can get started right away by signing up to become an insurance agent. The support, training, and earning potential make this a viable career option for ambitious individuals across India.