How to Get a Life Insurance Licence in Canada (Outside Quebec)
Outside Quebec, every province follows the same path to a life insurance licence, built on CISRO's harmonized LLQP. Quebec has its own system run by the AMF and is not covered here.
The steps
- 1. Take the accredited LLQP course with a provider approved in your province. The course certificate is valid for 12 months (BC rule).
- 2. Register for the provincial exam. In BC this starts with an eligibility verification in the Insurance Council's portal, which can take up to three business days, and you need a CIPR (Canadian Insurance Participant Registry) number.
- 3. Pass the modules. All four for a life licence (Life, A&S, Seg Funds, Ethics); A&S and Ethics for an A&S licence.
- 4. Apply for the licence within 12 months of the first module passed. Regulators also assess suitability: trustworthiness, competence, financial reliability and any conflicting business activities.
- 5. Meet the practice requirements, which commonly include errors and omissions insurance and a sponsoring insurer or agency. Confirm the list with your regulator.
| Province | Regulator |
|---|---|
| British Columbia | Insurance Council of BC |
| Alberta | Alberta Insurance Council |
| Ontario | Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRA) |
| Other provinces and territories | The provincial or territorial superintendent or insurance council |
Frequently asked questions
Can I sell life insurance after passing the LLQP?
No. You must first apply for and receive a licence from your provincial regulator.
How long do I have to get licensed after the exam?
In BC, within 12 months of the first module you pass.
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