If you’re looking for a career that combines income potential, flexibility, and the opportunity to help others, then become health insurance agent might be the perfect fit for you. With growing awareness about medical expenses and the rising need for health coverage, health insurance is one of the most in-demand services in India today.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to become health insurance agent, including eligibility, process, exam, documents, income potential, and more.
Who is a Health Insurance Agent?
A health insurance agent is a certified professional authorized to sell health insurance policies to individuals, families, and businesses. They act as a bridge between insurance companies and customers by:
- Explaining various health insurance plans
- Helping customers choose suitable policies
- Assisting in the policy issuance process
- Supporting policyholders during claims
In India, to legally operate as a health insurance agent, you must register and obtain a license from the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI).
Why Become Health Insurance Agent?
There are several advantages to pursuing a career as a health insurance agent:
- 💼 High Demand: Health insurance is now a necessity, especially after COVID-19.
- 💰 Attractive Commission: Earn based on the number and value of policies you sell.
- 🕒 Flexible Working Hours: Be your own boss and work at your convenience.
- 📈 Career Growth: With experience, you can grow into an advisor or even start your own agency.
- 👨👩👧👦 Help People: Guide families toward financial security during medical emergencies.
Eligibility to Become Health Insurance Agent
Before you start the process, make sure you meet the following eligibility criteria set by IRDAI:
For Individuals:
- ✅ Minimum Age: 18 years
- ✅ Educational Qualification: Minimum 10th pass for rural areas, 12th pass for urban areas
- ✅ Nationality: Must be an Indian citizen
- ✅ Training: Must undergo mandatory training from an IRDAI-approved institution
Step-by-Step Process to Become Health Insurance Agent
Here’s a complete roadmap to become a licensed health insurance agent in India:
Step 1: Choose a Health Insurance Company
Start by selecting the health insurance company you want to represent. Some of the top health insurance providers in India include:
- Star Health and Allied Insurance
- Niva Bupa Health Insurance
- Care Health Insurance
- HDFC ERGO Health
- ICICI Lombard
- Tata AIG Health Insurance
Reach out to their nearest branch or visit their website to apply as a prospective agent.
Step 2: Undergo IRDAI Mandatory Training
After getting shortlisted, you’ll be enrolled in a 15-hour training program (for general insurance agents) conducted by an IRDAI-approved training institute or directly by the insurance company.
Training covers:
- Health insurance basics
- IRDAI regulations
- Policy types and features
- Customer handling and ethics
- Claims process and documentation
Training is available both online and offline.
Step 3: Appear for IRDAI IC38 Exam
Once training is complete, you must pass the IRDAI IC38 exam, which tests your knowledge of health insurance products and regulatory guidelines.
Exam Details:
- Format: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
- Total Questions: 50
- Passing Marks: 35% (minimum 17 correct answers)
- Duration: 1 hour
- Medium: English, Hindi, and regional languages
Exam centers are available across India, and some companies offer online examination options as well.
Step 4: Submit Documents for Registration
After clearing the IC38 exam, you’ll need to submit the following documents for IRDAI registration:
- PAN Card
- Aadhar Card
- Educational Certificate (10th/12th pass mark sheet)
- Passport-size photographs
- Address Proof (Utility bill, rent agreement, etc.)
- Training Certificate
- IC38 Exam Scorecard
Your chosen health insurance company will forward these documents to IRDAI for license issuance.
Step 5: Get Your IRDAI License
Once your application is approved, you’ll receive your Health Insurance Agent License from IRDAI. This license is valid for 3 years and allows you to legally sell and service health insurance policies.
Cost to Become a Health Insurance Agent
Become health insurance agent requires a low investment. Here’s a rough estimate of costs involved:
| Item | Approximate Cost |
| Training Fee (15 hours) | ₹1,000 – ₹2,000 |
| IC38 Exam Fee | ₹500 – ₹700 |
| License & Registration Fee | ₹250 – ₹500 |
| Miscellaneous/Admin Charges | ₹200 – ₹300 |
| Total Cost | ₹2,000 – ₹3,500 |
Most insurance companies sponsor your training and exam if you agree to work with them.
How Much Can You Earn as a Health Insurance Agent?
Your income as a health insurance agent depends on your performance and the value of the policies you sell. Here’s how you earn:
- Commission-Based Earnings: Earn a percentage of the premium paid by the customer.
- Renewal Commission: You continue earning commission every year as long as the policy is renewed.
- Bonuses & Rewards: Companies offer additional incentives like cash rewards, travel gifts, and recognition programs.
Example:
If you sell a health policy with a premium of ₹20,000 and the commission is 15%, you earn ₹3,000. If you sell 10 such policies a month, your monthly income is ₹30,000 – and it only grows from there with renewals and referrals.
Tips to Succeed as a Health Insurance Agent
To become a successful health insurance agent, follow these tips:
1. Know Your Products
Understand the features, exclusions, and benefits of all the health insurance plans offered by your company.
2. Focus on Customer Needs
Always recommend plans based on what’s best for the customer, not just what offers the highest commission.
3. Stay Updated
Keep learning about new health policies, IRDAI guidelines, and industry trends.
4. Leverage Digital Tools
Use WhatsApp, Facebook, and LinkedIn to reach out to prospects. You can also use CRM tools to track leads and renewals.
5. Build Relationships
Health insurance is not a one-time transaction. Build trust and maintain long-term relationships for continued renewals and referrals.
Career Growth for Health Insurance Agents
Here’s how your career can grow over time:
- Year 1-2: Learn the basics, build your client base, and earn consistent commissions.
- Year 3-5: Become a senior advisor, lead a team of junior agents, and start earning from team performance.
- Year 5+: Start your own insurance agency, partner with multiple insurers, and build a thriving business.
Final Thoughts
Choosing to become health insurance agent can be the start of a rewarding and financially secure career. With minimal investment, flexible work hours, and the ability to positively impact lives, this profession is gaining popularity across India.
Whether you’re a student, a working professional looking for side income, or someone seeking a career shift — now is the best time to join the booming health insurance industry.
FAQs About Becoming a Health Insurance Agent
Q1. Can I sell policies from multiple companies?
No. As an individual agent, IRDAI allows you to represent only one general insurance company at a time.
Q2. Can I become a health insurance agent online?
Yes. Many insurance companies now offer online training, exams, and digital onboarding.
Q3. How long does it take to become health insurance agent?
The entire process — from training to licensing — takes around 2 to 3 weeks.
Q4. Is the health insurance agent job full-time or part-time?
You can work full-time or part-time based on your availability and goals.
