I don't know for certain what the experience requirements are for obtaining E&O insurance.  But, I have heard the 3-year rule before.  That really doesn't surprise me, either.  You cannot learn to abstract without extensive on the job training.  There are many "odd" situations that pop up and it takes experience and training to know how to properly handle them.  I have been in the abstracting business for 14 years and I still see new things all the time.  But, my experience helps me realize when I need to refer to the Ohio Title Standards, Ohio Real Estate Code, or another resource. 

I can't advise you on how to obtain E&O without meeting the E&O carrier's requirements - that doesn't seem possible.  But, I would say that you may need to get the experience first.  That would mean finding a job working for a title company, title attorney, or established abstract company.  With the market being so slow, that may be tough.  But, in my opinion, there are no shortcuts to learning to abstract.

For more of my thoughts, please see So, You Want To Be An Abstractor?