A licensed insurance agent sells insurance policies as well as annuities, securities and mutual funds. All insurance agents must obtain a license in the state where they work. Are you an Ohio resident who would like to be an insurance agent? Read on to learn how to become a licensed insurance agent in Ohio.

Decide what type of insurance license you need to earn. There are four common lines of services you can sell: health insurance, accident insurance, life insurance and variable annuities. A majority of insurance agents in Ohio are licensed in all four lines, but you can become licensed in just accident and health insurance or in just variable annuities and life insurance.

Enroll in a pre-licensing educational program. Ohio residents have the choice of attending a classroom-based program or signing up for a self-study program.

Complete your pre-licensing education. You need 40 classroom hours to sell all four lines of service. You need to complete just 20 classroom hours if you wish to become licensed in only two of the four lines. You will be awarded a certificate of completion after finishing all of your coursework. You must have these certificates to sit for the Ohio state licensing exam.

Register for the Ohio state insurance license exam. Ohio residents are required to sit for licensing exams proctored by Pearson VUE. You can schedule your examination date via Internet, mail or telephone.

Pass your licensing exam. Arrive at the testing center about 30 minutes early. Bring two types of identification, including one with a photo. You must also have your certificate of completion from the pre-licensing educational program and your examination reservation confirmation number.

Apply for your Ohio state insurance license. You can complete the application process at the testing center if you pass your exam. Bring enough money to pay for the licensing and the fingerprinting fees.

Receive your license. Your initial license should arrive in the mail as soon as your application is approved and your fingerprints are processed. The waiting period is typically 7 to 10 business days. This initial Ohio state insurance agent license is valid for 2 years after your exam.