How to Get a Public Adjuster License in New York (Step-By-Step)
Apr 02, 2026
If you want to work directly with policyholders and negotiate insurance claims on their behalf, becoming a licensed public adjuster in New York is a powerful career move. New York has stricter requirements than many states, which makes licensed professionals more valuable. However, this also means you need to follow a specific process and submit everything required in a timely manner.
This guide breaks down exactly how to get your New York public adjuster license, step by step.
What Is a Public Adjuster?
A public adjuster is a licensed professional who represents policyholders - not insurance companies - during the claims process. They help assess damage, prepare claims, and negotiate settlements.
They are paid by the policyholder, usually as part of the settlement.
In New York, you must be licensed to legally act as a public adjuster.
New York Public Adjuster License Requirements
Before applying, you must meet the state’s baseline eligibility requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Have no disqualifying criminal history (e.g., fraud or felony convictions)
- Be trustworthy and financially responsible
- Complete a state-approved NY public adjuster pre-licensing course
Step 1: Complete a 40-Hour Pre-Licensing Course
New York requires public adjuster applicants to complete:
- At least 40 hours of state-approved education
This course covers:
- Insurance laws and regulations (general and New York-specific)
- Claims handling practices
- Ethics and professional responsibilities
You will need to pass the pre-licensing exam at the end of the course to satisfy this requirement.
Step 2: Pass the New York Licensing Exam
After completing your course, you must pass the New York public adjuster exam - series 17-62, administered by PSI.
Make sure you have your identification and Certificate of Completion from your pre-licensing course handy when scheduling.
Step 3: Submit Fingerprints and Background Check
All applicants must complete a fingerprinting background check:
- Done through IdentoGO (NY residents)
- Required for background screening
IMPORTANT: If New York DFS doesn't receive your application within 10 days of your fingerprint receipt, they'll discard your fingerprints and you will have to have them done again. (And pay for it.) So make sure your timing and submissions are set up correctly.
Step 4: Obtain a $1,000 Surety Bond
Public Adjuster candidates must submit a bond in the amount of $1000 to cover the licensing period (from date issued to expiration date). The bond, with Acknowledgments and Power of Attorney forms, can be uploaded with your application.
This sounds complicated, but it is relatively straightforward. New York is actually one of the simplest and cheapest states to get bonded in.
- Get the bond from a surety company (not through the state)
- Fill out a short application
- Pay a small premium
- Submit the bond with your license application
The bond protects consumers in case of misconduct or errors.
Step 5: Apply Through the NY Department of Financial Services (DFS)
You’ll submit your application to the New York Department of Financial Services (DFS) with:
- Proof of education
- Exam results
- Fingerprint confirmation
- Surety bond documentation
- Certificates of Character
- Required fees
More details on each of these items are available on the NYDFS website. New York public adjuster applications are submitted online through the DFS licensing portal.
New York Public Adjuster Licensing Fees
Typical costs include:
- Application & license fees: $100
- Exam fee: $40
- Fingerprinting costs: $87
- Bond: Usually 1%-5% of the bond amount
- Education course (Rocket Adjuster): $279
Total estimated cost: $600–$800+, depending on your providers and extras. (These fees are subject to change from their respective providers.)
Step 6: Maintain and Renew Your License
Once licensed:
- Licenses must be renewed every 2 years
- Continuing education is required
- Failure to renew can result in expiration and reinstatement requirements
How Long Does It Take to get a Public Adjuster License in New York?
Most candidates complete the process in:
- 2–6 weeks (fast-track)
- Up to 2–3 months, depending on exam scheduling and application processing
Why New York Public Adjuster Licenses Are Valuable
New York is unique because:
- It has strict licensing requirements
- It does not offer broad reciprocity to adjusters from out of state
- Huge size + large population = a lot of insurance claims
- High claim numbers result in the need for public adjusters to represent policyholders
Common Questions
Do I need experience to get licensed?
No experience is required to get your license. However, relevant insurance experience may allow you to waive the education requirement under the following circumstances:
A candidate for the public adjuster license may wave the education requirement if he/she were regularly employed in the insurance industry for no less than one year in duties involving sales, underwriting, or claims.
Is the exam difficult?
Yes—insurance exams typically have ~55% pass rates on first attempt, so preparation is critical.
Rocket Adjuster's New York Public Adjuster Pre-Licensing course was designed to:
- Satisfy your pre-licensing requirement AND
- Prepare you to pass the state exam
Final Thoughts
Getting a public adjuster license in New York involves:
- Completing a 40-hour course
- Passing the state exam
- Submitting fingerprints
- Securing a surety bond
- Applying through NYDFS
While the process is more rigorous than other states, that’s exactly what makes the license more valuable.
If you're considering becoming a public adjuster in New York, check out the resources available in our blog or email us at support@rocketadjuster.com. We're here to help.
