CIC Insurance Designation: Everything You Need to Know

Are you looking for a career in insurance or want to advance your existing career in the insurance industry? If yes, then a Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC) designation may be just what you need to make your mark. CIC is an insurance industry’s premier professional designation, which is earned through a rigorous education and examination process. In this article, we will explore what exactly the CIC designation is, its significance, how to obtain it, and frequently asked questions about it.

What is the CIC designation?

The Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC) is a professional designation awarded to insurance agents and brokers. This designation recognizes the agent or broker’s broad knowledge of commercial insurance and personal insurance solutions. The designation is awarded by the National Alliance for Insurance Education & Research, a leading provider of insurance and risk management education in the US. The CIC program has been in existence for over five decades and is widely recognized as the premier designation for insurance professionals.

As an insurance professional, getting the CIC designation enhances your knowledge and expertise in risk management, insurance policy coverage, and more. It demonstrates to your clients and employers that you have made a commitment to professional development, and it separates you from other agents and brokers who have not earned this designation.

Why is the CIC designation important?

The CIC designation is essential for insurance professionals who work with businesses and individuals. It shows that the agent or broker has the necessary knowledge and expertise to provide the best insurance solutions for their clients. It also demonstrates that the agent or broker is committed to the insurance industry and has a long-term career in the field.

Moreover, the CIC designation provides opportunities for professional development, including cutting-edge industry training, networking opportunities, and access to the latest insurance information and products. This designation is a symbol of excellence and integrity and can help you stand out in a crowded insurance job market.

How to earn the CIC designation?

Earning the CIC designation requires completing five courses and passing five exams within five years. The courses cover a wide range of insurance topics, including commercial casualty, commercial property, personal lines, agency management, and life and health insurance.

The courses are delivered in several formats, including classroom instruction, online or self-study, and webinars. The National Alliance offers various delivery methods to ensure that the courses are accessible to all insurance professionals, regardless of their location and availability.

After completing each course, you must pass an exam to receive credit. The exams are available in-person or online, and the passing score is 70%. Once you have completed all five courses and exams, you will earn the CIC designation.

FAQs about the CIC designation

Q: What are the prerequisites for obtaining the CIC designation?

A: There are no prerequisites for obtaining the CIC designation. However, it is recommended that you have some experience in the insurance industry before starting the program.

Q: How long does it take to earn the CIC designation?

A: The CIC designation can be earned within five years. However, the timeline depends on the candidate’s availability and preferred learning method.

Q: What is the cost of earning the CIC designation?

A: The cost of earning the CIC designation varies depending on the delivery method and location. It ranges from $125 per course for self-study to $1,125 per course for classroom instruction.

Q: What are the benefits of earning the CIC designation?

A: The benefits of earning the CIC designation include a broad knowledge of commercial insurance and personal insurance solutions, professional development opportunities, networking opportunities, and access to the latest insurance information and products.

Q: Is the CIC designation recognized outside the US?

A: The CIC designation is recognized only in the US.

Conclusion

The CIC designation is a symbol of excellence and integrity and can provide insurance professionals with professional development opportunities, networking opportunities, and access to the latest insurance information and products. Earning the CIC designation requires completing five courses and passing five exams within five years. The costs of earning the designation vary depending on the delivery method and location. By earning the CIC designation, you can enhance your knowledge and expertise in risk management, insurance policy coverage, and more, and demonstrate to your clients and employers that you are committed to the insurance industry and have a long-term career in the field.