Commercial insurance agents provide clients with a wide array of products while maintaining a large network of clients and businesses. To ensure the authenticity and regulation of services provided by these agents, the government requires agents to obtain a commercial insurance license. Performing the tasks required of providing and selling insurance policies without having an authentic license is punishable by law. For those who would like to pursue a career in the insurance industry, it is recommended they obtain a commercial insurance license through their local government.

Make sure you are old enough to sit for the exam. Commercial insurance licenses require applicants to be at least 18 years of age on or before the date of filing. Citizens who are under the age of 18 may opt to volunteer in an insurance agency to gain a full understanding of the processes and paperwork involved in obtaining a commercial insurance license.

Have sufficient working knowledge and experience in the insurance and securities field. Applicants with college training and degrees in finance and other business courses have an advantage in getting licenses because of their educational background. For those breaking into the industry, a few solid years of experience in sales or similar types of work will prove to be beneficial as well.

Complete the number of required insurance educational course hours. Depending on the state in which the applicant applies for a commercial insurance license, he or she must fulfill the required number of course hours before taking the examination. The insurance department of each state has schedules and classroom hour requirements to follow for aspiring license brokers. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners' website lists information and links to several state insurance departments.

Schedule an exam with your local state government’s commercial insurance licensure examination facilitating body. Prometric is the leading global provider of comprehensive testing and assessment services and offers a wide array of information and links on its website as to how and where to schedule and take the licensure exam.

Take the insurance licensing exam and fulfill the grading requirement. Upon completing the required number of course hours, applicants can register to take the licensure examination for commercial insurance agents. Each facilitating department in various states has different exam questions, but applicants must be prepared to answer questions regarding property, casualty, life and health insurance. Study centers often recommend applicants review previous licensing exams to get a clear idea of how exam questions are formulated. Books and other reading material are also very helpful in providing a wide array of insurance information.

Be aware of continuing studies programs and other advancement procedures. Successful licensure exam takers should be aware of some states’ mandatory continuing education requirements, because the renewal of these licenses often requires licensed agents to undergo additional specialized training and course work.