Career Guide

How to become an independent insurance agent

A step by step path to taking control of your career, representing multiple carriers, and building an insurance business on your own terms.

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By David Racich, Owner and CEO of Brokers Alliance. Updated July 2025.

01 · The role

Understand what it means to be independent

Unlike captive agents who work for a single insurance company, independent agents can offer products from multiple insurers. That lets you tailor coverage to fit each client and maximize your earning potential. At Brokers Alliance we help new and experienced agents make the transition into independence with the support and resources they need.

MCMultiple carriers

Access to multiple carriers and product lines, so you place the right coverage rather than the only coverage.

CFCommission flexibility

Higher commission flexibility than a captive contract allows.

BRYour brand

Greater control over your own marketing and branding.

AGYour agency

The freedom to build your own agency and book of business.

02 · Licensing

Meet your state licensing requirements

Each state requires agents to be licensed to sell insurance products. Here is what the process generally involves.

01Choose your specialty

Life, health, property and casualty, and so on. Your line determines the coursework and exam.

02Complete pre licensing education

Most states require 20 to 40 hours of coursework.

03Pass the state exam

Exams are administered through state insurance departments or testing vendors.

04Apply and clear a background check

A clean record speeds up the approval process.

05Obtain your National Producer Number

Your NPN is a unique ID that tracks your licensing status across states.

Brokers Alliance can connect you with trusted licensing providers and exam prep resources.

03 · Appointments

Get appointed with insurance carriers

Once you are licensed, you need to get appointed by carriers to sell their products. Appointments allow you to quote and bind policies on behalf of the insurer. Here is what you need to have in place.

LNActive license and NPN

Your state license and National Producer Number, current and in good standing.

EOErrors and Omissions insurance

E and O coverage protects you and is required by most carriers before appointment.

CACompleted carrier application

The appointment paperwork for each carrier you intend to represent.

FBA trusted FMO or BGA

Contracting through a partner like Brokers Alliance streamlines appointments across carriers.

04 · Your partner

Choose the right FMO or BGA

Partnering with a Field Marketing Organization or Brokerage General Agency is crucial for independent success. The right partner provides tools, training, marketing support, and access to top rated carriers. Here is why agents choose Brokers Alliance.

CSCompetitive commission structures

Compensation built for producers who want to grow.

LGLead generation tools

Resources to keep your pipeline full.

TRTraining programs and webinars

Ongoing education for new and experienced agents alike.

SPDedicated agent support team

Real people behind you when you need answers.

QPCustom quoting platforms

Tools that make it easy to quote and place business.

05 · Growth

Build your book of business

Marketing and client retention are the keys to long term success. Start by identifying your niche and developing a strong local or digital presence. From there, consistent outreach and service turn first policies into a growing, renewing book that is yours.

Ready to go independent?

Brokers Alliance has helped agents make the leap since 1982. Independently owned, based in Fountain Hills, Arizona. Reach us at (866) 872-9394 and we will map out your path to independence.

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