How to Become an Insurance Adjuster in New York
New York is one of the largest insurance markets in the country, with claims activity spanning property damage, liability, workers' compensation, and auto insurance. The New York Department of Financial Services (DFS) regulates adjuster licensing and requires a state exam for all adjuster types.
| New York License Required | Yes |
| New York Pre-Licensing Education | 40 hours (Public Adjuster) |
| New York Exam Required | Yes |
| New York Fees |
|
New York Adjuster Exam Prep
Study outlines, sample question styles, and practical tips for the New York licensing exam, built as a companion to this licensing guide.
Open New York Exam PrepNew York License Types
New York issues two primary adjuster license types:
- Independent Adjuster — Adjusters contracted by insurers
- Public Adjuster — Adjusters who represent policyholders
Staff adjusters employed by insurers are generally exempt from individual licensing.
New York Pre-Licensing Education
Public Adjusters: Must complete a 40-hour DFS-approved pre-licensing course covering property insurance, casualty insurance, claims adjusting procedures, ethics, and New York insurance law. This requirement is waived for applicants with at least one year of prior employment in insurance involving sales, underwriting, or claims.
Independent Adjusters: Not required to complete pre-licensing coursework.
New York Exam Details
All adjuster applicants must pass a computer-based multiple-choice exam administered by PSI within 2 years of applying. A 70% passing score is required. The exam covers insurance terminology, property and casualty insurance, claims adjusting, ethics, and New York insurance law. The exam fee is $33.
New York Application Process
- Complete pre-licensing education (required for public adjusters)
- Pass the PSI licensing exam
- Submit fingerprints and pass a background check
- Apply through the DFS online portal
- Pay application fees and post bond (public adjusters)
- Public adjusters: submit five certificates of character from community members
New York Continuing Education
All licensed adjusters must complete 15 hours of continuing education every 2 years, covering ethics, property and casualty insurance, and New York insurance law.
New York Reciprocity
New York participates in non-resident licensing reciprocity. Out-of-state adjusters can apply for a New York non-resident license with an active home state license.
New York Background Check
Yes. All applicants must submit fingerprints and pass a criminal background check.
New York Bond Requirements
Public Adjusters must submit a $1,000 surety bond. Independent adjusters are not required to post a bond.
New York Key Links
New York Additional Notes
New York has relatively low licensing fees compared to other major states. Public adjuster applicants should note the unique requirement to submit five certificates of character from community members as part of the application.
Continuing education providers for New York. Course listings where published, plus a shortcut back to the CE rules in this guide.
Find New York Service Providers
Looking for claims service providers in New York? Search the Claims Pages provider directory for adjusters, restoration companies, investigators, and more.
Search the New York Provider Directory New York Department of InsuranceThis guide is provided for informational purposes. Requirements change periodically. Always verify current requirements directly with the New York department of insurance before applying.
