United States · Licensing examWho needs a California insurance adjuster license?
California's Insurance Code treats an adjuster as anyone other than a private investigator who investigates or adjusts insurance claims for pay, or asks for that business. The licensed business runs under a qualified manager, who passed the adjuster exam and can be you. The qualified manager doesn't have to live in California.
Requirements
- At least 18
- Two years of certified experience in insurance adjusting (4,000 compensated hours)
- A pass on the Insurance Adjuster exam, by you or your qualified manager
- A $2,000 adjuster bond (form LIC 31A-14), unless you adjust only for a licensed adjuster, qualified manager or firm that has filed one
- Fingerprints and a 2x2 passport photo
- An application through Sircon, NIPR or form LIC 041-A
The California adjuster exam
PSI gives it at test centers, including CDI's own in Los Angeles, or online with a remote proctor. The bulletin, revised March 2026, lists 100 questions in 158 minutes and a 70% pass mark for adjuster exams. Agent exams need 60%.
The exam costs $79 and a retake $32. A pass is valid for one year. If you fail the same exam 10 times, you can't take it again for 12 months. CDI's Examination Objectives list what the exam covers.
Fees and license term
| Item | Fee |
|---|---|
| Two-year license | $311 per qualified manager |
| Exam | $79 |
| Re-exam | $32 |
| Branch office certificate | $52 |
| Late renewal | $390 |
The license runs two years from the issue date, ending on the last day of that same month two years later. Filing fees aren't refundable.
Sources: California Department of Insurance and 2 more. Checked October 2026.
- California Department of Insurance: Insurance Adjuster Licensing Information ↗
- California Department of Insurance: Candidate Information Bulletin, revised March 2026 (PDF) ↗
- California Department of Insurance: Producer Licensing Fees ↗
Rules and fees can change, so check the official site before your test.
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