# How to Become an Insurance Adjuster in California

_Licensing_

Canonical: https://www.claimspages.com/learn/licensing/california/

California is the largest insurance market in the United States, with significant claims activity from wildfires, earthquakes, and property damage. The California Department of Insurance (CDI) regulates adjuster licensing and requires a state exam for both independent and public adjusters. Unlike many states, California requires independent adjusters to have substantial prior experience before they can be licensed.



California issues two adjuster license types:

Independent Adjuster — Contracted by insurers to handle claims on their behalfPublic Adjuster — Represents policyholders in negotiating claim settlementsStaff adjusters employed directly by an insurer and catastrophe adjusters are exempt from licensing.



The California adjuster exam is a multiple-choice, computer-based test requiring a 70% passing score. It covers insurance terminology, property and casualty insurance, claims adjusting processes, ethics, and California insurance law. Exams are administered at CDI examination sites ($79 fee) or PSI Test Centers ($122 fee).



Gain required experience (independent adjusters: 4,000 hours) or complete pre-licensing education (public adjusters: 20 hours)Register for and pass the CDI adjuster licensing examSubmit your application through the CDI online portalPay application and exam feesPost surety bond (public adjusters only)

Independent adjusters must complete 24 hours of continuing education every 2 years, including 3 hours of ethics.



California's experience requirement (4,000 hours for independent adjusters) makes it one of the more challenging states for new adjusters. Many adjusters begin their careers in other states and later apply for a California license after gaining experience.