Insurance Schools in Florida: Everything You Need to Know

If you’re considering a career in the insurance industry in Florida, you’ll need to obtain the appropriate education and licensing. Insurance schools in Florida offer a variety of programs that can help you achieve your career goals, whether you’re interested in becoming an insurance agent, adjuster, or underwriter. In this article, we’ll explore the different types of insurance schools in Florida, what you can expect from their programs, and how to choose the right one for your needs.

Types of Insurance Schools in Florida

There are several types of insurance schools in Florida, each offering different programs and courses to prepare you for a career in the insurance industry. Here are the most common types:

Type of School
Description
Vocational Schools
Vocational schools specialize in providing education and training for specific trades or occupations. In Florida, you can find vocational schools that offer insurance courses for aspiring agents, adjusters, and underwriters.
Community Colleges
Community colleges are public institutions that offer two-year associate’s degree programs as well as certificate programs in various fields, including insurance.
Online Insurance Schools
Online insurance schools are becoming increasingly popular, as they offer flexible and convenient options for students who may not have the time or resources to attend traditional schools.

Vocational Schools

Vocational schools are a great option for students who want to focus solely on insurance courses and receive hands-on training in a short amount of time. In Florida, vocational schools offer a variety of insurance courses, including:

  • Property and Casualty Insurance
  • Life and Health Insurance
  • Adjuster Training
  • Underwriting Training

Most vocational schools in Florida offer programs that can be completed in less than a year. Some of the most popular vocational schools for insurance education in Florida include:

  • Florida Insurance College
  • Central Insurance School
  • Gold Coast Schools

Community Colleges

Community colleges in Florida offer a more comprehensive education in insurance, as they provide students with the opportunity to earn an associate’s degree in insurance. This type of program usually takes two years to complete and covers a wider range of topics, including:

  • Insurance Law and Regulations
  • Principles of Risk Management and Insurance
  • Insurance Claims Investigation and Processing
  • Marketing and Sales Techniques for Insurance

Some of the most popular community colleges for insurance education in Florida include:

  • Florida State College at Jacksonville
  • St. Petersburg College
  • Broward College

Online Insurance Schools

Online insurance schools offer a flexible and convenient option for students who may not be able to attend traditional schools. Most online programs are self-paced, allowing students to complete coursework on their own schedule. Online insurance schools in Florida offer a variety of courses and programs, including:

  • Pre-Licensing Courses for Insurance Agents and Adjusters
  • Continuing Education for Insurance Professionals
  • Exam Preparation Courses for State Licensing Exams

Some of the most popular online insurance schools in Florida include:

  • 360training
  • Insurance License Express
  • ExamFX

Choosing the Right Insurance School for You

Choosing the right insurance school in Florida depends on your individual needs and career goals. Here are some factors to consider when selecting an insurance school:

Accreditation

Make sure the school you choose is accredited by a recognized accrediting agency. Accreditation ensures that the school meets certain standards of quality and that your degree or certificate will be recognized by employers and other educational institutions.

Programs Offered

Consider the programs and courses offered by the school to make sure they align with your career goals. If you’re interested in becoming an insurance agent, for example, you’ll want to enroll in a program that provides pre-licensing courses and exam preparation.

Flexibility

If you’re juggling work or family responsibilities, you may want to look for a school that offers flexible scheduling options, such as online or evening courses.

Career Services

Some schools offer career services, such as job placement assistance and networking opportunities, to help students launch their careers after graduation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Insurance Licenses Do I Need in Florida?

In Florida, insurance professionals must obtain a license from the Florida Department of Financial Services. The type of license you need depends on the type of insurance you’ll be selling or adjusting. You can obtain licenses for:

  • Life and Health Insurance
  • Property and Casualty Insurance
  • Adjuster

What Are the Requirements for Obtaining an Insurance License in Florida?

To obtain an insurance license in Florida, you must:

  • Complete an approved pre-licensing course for the type of license you’re pursuing
  • Pass a state licensing exam
  • Submit an application and fees to the Florida Department of Financial Services
  • Undergo a criminal background check

How Long Does it Take to Get an Insurance License in Florida?

The time it takes to get an insurance license in Florida depends on how quickly you complete the pre-licensing course, pass the licensing exam, and submit your application and fees. On average, the process takes about 4-6 weeks.

What Are the Continuing Education Requirements for Insurance Professionals in Florida?

In Florida, insurance professionals are required to complete continuing education courses to renew their licenses. The number of hours required varies depending on the type of license you hold. For example, property and casualty insurance agents must complete 24 hours of continuing education every two years, while life and health insurance agents must complete 20 hours.

What Is the Job Outlook for Insurance Professionals in Florida?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of insurance sales agents in Florida is projected to grow 11% from 2018 to 2028, which is faster than the average for all occupations. The demand for insurance products is expected to increase as the population ages and as more people become aware of the importance of insurance coverage.

Conclusion

Attending an insurance school in Florida can provide you with the education and training you need to succeed in the insurance industry. Whether you choose a vocational school, community college, or online insurance school, make sure you select a program that aligns with your career goals and provides you with the skills and knowledge necessary to obtain a Florida insurance license.