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Do You Really Need a License to Be an Insurance Adjuster? What Every Beginner Should Know
- May 13, 2025
- Posted by: Mike Puckett
- Category: Adjuster Licensing career planning Claims Adjuster eLearning Goals Insurance Adjuster licensing

The insurance industry offers promising careers, especially in the field of claims adjusting. But if you’re new to the game, you’re probably wondering: Do you really need a license to be an insurance adjuster? The short answer is yes—in most cases. Let’s break down why, when, and how licensing works, and how AE21 can help you get started on the right foot.
✅ What Is an Insurance Adjuster?
An insurance adjuster investigates claims, assesses damages, and determines the payout an insurance company should make to a policyholder. They work in various areas, including:
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Property damage (homes, vehicles, businesses)
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Catastrophe response (hurricanes, floods, wildfires)
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Workers’ compensation
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Liability and casualty claims
Because adjusters often deal with sensitive legal and financial matters, licensing is required in most states to ensure competency and compliance with industry standards.
📋 Do You Need a License to Be an Adjuster?
🟩 Yes – In Most States
The majority of U.S. states require you to have an adjuster license before you can legally handle insurance claims. Licensing requirements vary by state, but typically include:
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Completing a state-approved training course
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Passing a licensing exam
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Completing a background check
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Meeting continuing education (CE) requirements to keep your license active
Pro Tip: Even if your state doesn’t require a license (like Colorado, Missouri, or Pennsylvania), most employers and major insurance carriers will require it anyway.
🌎 What If My State Doesn’t License Adjusters?
If you live in a state that doesn’t license adjusters, you can apply for a Designated Home State (DHS) License. This allows you to become licensed in another state (commonly Florida or Texas) and operate legally as an adjuster nationwide.
💡 How to Choose the Right State License
When selecting a state license, consider:
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Reciprocity: Will the license be accepted by other states?
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Exam requirements: Does the state waive the exam with training?
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DHS eligibility: Can out-of-state residents apply?
Florida is a popular choice because it offers an exam waiver when you complete an approved pre-licensing course—like the one AE21 provides.
🏆 Why AE21 Is Your Best Choice for Insurance Adjuster Licensing
If you’re looking to start your career quickly, affordably, and with confidence, AE21 is your trusted partner in online insurance adjuster training.
Here’s what sets AE21 apart:
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✅ State-Approved Licensing Programs
AE21’s courses meet all state-specific requirements, including for Florida and Texas licenses. -
✅ Exam-Exempt Training in Florida
AE21 is approved by the Florida Department of Financial Services, meaning you can bypass the state exam by completing their 40-hour licensing course. -
✅ 100% Online and Self-Paced
Perfect for working professionals and career changers. Study anytime, anywhere. -
✅ Expert Support and Exam Prep Tools
AE21 doesn’t just help you pass a test—they prepare you to excel in the real world of insurance adjusting. -
✅ National Recognition and Reciprocity
Licensing through AE21’s training opens doors across multiple states, including through DHS licenses.
📈 Launch Your Adjusting Career with Confidence
Getting licensed is your first step toward a rewarding, high-demand career as an insurance adjuster. With AE21’s expert-led online courses, you can fast-track your training, bypass the licensing exam in Florida, and get started immediately.
👉 Ready to get licensed?
Enroll in AE21’s online adjuster licensing program today and join thousands of successful adjusters who started their careers with the industry’s most trusted online training provider.