Insurance Continuing Education: Why It Matters and What You Need to Know

As an insurance professional, staying up-to-date on industry trends, regulation changes, and new laws is crucial to your success. The best way to do this is through continuing education. In this article, we will explore the importance of insurance continuing education, the benefits of getting certified, and answer some frequently asked questions.

What is Insurance Continuing Education?

Insurance continuing education is a requirement for many states in the US and Canada that mandates insurance professionals to complete a certain amount of hours of education on a regular basis. The purpose of these courses is to ensure that insurance agents are knowledgeable in their field and are equipped to provide the best service to their clients.

Continuing education courses cover topics such as new industry trends, regulatory changes, ethics, risk management, and consumer protection. These courses can be taken online or in-person, and the number of hours required to complete the courses depends on the state or province you are licensed in.

How Often Do You Need to Complete Insurance Continuing Education?

The frequency with which you need to complete insurance continuing education varies by state and province. In the United States, for example, many states require agents to complete 24 hours of continuing education every two years. In other states, the requirement may be 30 hours every two years. It’s important to check with your state’s insurance regulatory agency to determine your specific requirements.

Why is Insurance Continuing Education Important?

Insurance continuing education is essential for several reasons:

1. Keeping up-to-date on industry changes: The insurance industry is constantly evolving, and new trends, regulations, and laws emerge frequently. Insurance continuing education courses provide a way for insurance agents to stay on top of these changes.
2. Meeting state and regulatory requirements: Many states require insurance agents to complete a certain number of hours of continuing education to maintain their license. Failing to complete these requirements can result in fines and even license suspension.
3. Increasing knowledge and skills: Continuing education courses provide insurance professionals with the opportunity to learn new skills, improve customer service, and gain a competitive edge in the industry.

What Are the Benefits of Getting Certified in Insurance Continuing Education?

Getting certified in insurance continuing education has several benefits:

1. Enhanced credibility: Certification demonstrates to clients and employers that you are committed to your profession and are knowledgeable of the latest industry trends and regulations.
2. Increased earning potential: Insurance agents with certification often have higher earning potential than those who do not.
3. Maintain licensure: In some states, certification may be required in order to maintain licensure.

Insurance Continuing Education FAQ

How Do I Sign Up for Insurance Continuing Education Courses?

There are numerous providers of insurance continuing education courses, both online and in-person. You can search for courses through your state’s insurance regulatory agency or through professional organizations such as the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC).

How Many Hours of Insurance Continuing Education Do I Need?

The number of hours of insurance continuing education required varies by state or province. In the United States, the range is typically between 24 and 30 hours every two years. Check with your state’s insurance regulatory agency to determine your specific requirements.

What Topics are Covered in Insurance Continuing Education Courses?

Insurance continuing education courses cover a range of topics, including:

• Industry trends
• New legislation and regulation changes
• Consumer protection
• Risk management and loss control
• Ethics
• Customer service

Do I Need to Complete Insurance Continuing Education If I’m Not Actively Selling Insurance?

In many states, insurance agents are required to complete continuing education even if they are not actively selling insurance. This is because the regulation changes and industry trends are still relevant to agents who are not actively selling insurance. Check with your state’s insurance regulatory agency to determine your specific requirements.

Can I Take Insurance Continuing Education Courses Online?

Yes, many providers offer insurance continuing education courses online. These courses offer flexibility and convenience for insurance agents who may not be able to attend in-person courses. However, make sure that the courses you are taking are approved by your state’s insurance regulatory agency.

Conclusion

Insurance continuing education is a crucial aspect of being a successful insurance professional. By staying up-to-date on industry changes, you can provide the best service to your clients and maintain a competitive edge in the industry. Getting certified in insurance continuing education demonstrates your commitment and knowledge to clients and employers.

Be sure to check with your state’s insurance regulatory agency to determine your specific requirements for insurance continuing education.