license now or wait

A friend who sells life and health, would like to hire me part time as an office assistant. I understand that I cannot quote, sell or solicit insurance policys without a license. A little background I have some sales experience. I was a part time independent travel agent (commission only home based) and did fairly well at it, until orbitz, travelocity and a few of the other online travel agency's pulled most of business away. I took an early retirement from the auto industry. I know a little bit about group plans and dealing with the insurance companies claims departments, since I filled in for the union benefits rep when he was out of town or on vacataion.
My friend is willing to mentor me, to see if I would like the business or not before I invest in the licensing course, background check, test and license. I'm not sure if it would be better to get my license first or check it out for a month or so.