Texas vs California Adjuster License Reciprocity

Texas vs California Adjuster License Reciprocity: 2026 Guide

✗ NO RECIPROCITY

Reciprocal Status NO
Exam Required YES
Application Fee (California) $245.00 – $295.00 (varies by license type)
Application Method California Department of Insurance Direct Application

No Reciprocity: Full Licensing Required

California does not maintain reciprocal recognition with Texas for adjuster licenses. Holding a Texas All-Lines Adjuster license provides no exemptions from California’s independent licensing requirements.

California operates one of the most stringent adjuster licensing frameworks in the United States, administered by the California Department of Insurance (CDI). The state requires all adjusters—resident and non-resident—to pass California-specific examinations covering state insurance codes, regulations, and claims handling procedures unique to California law.

Critical distinction: Unlike reciprocal states where Texas licensure substitutes for examination requirements, California treats all out-of-state adjusters as new applicants. Your Texas licensing experience and credentials do not reduce or waive any California requirements.

Steps to Apply for California Adjuster License

Step 1: Determine License Type
California issues separate adjuster licenses by line of authority. Common license types include:

  • Property & Casualty Adjuster: Covers auto, homeowners, commercial property claims
  • Workers’ Compensation Adjuster: Separate license required for WC claims
  • Public Adjuster: Distinct license for adjusters representing policyholders (not insurers)

Most Texas adjusters seeking California licensure apply for the Property & Casualty Adjuster license, which most closely aligns with Texas All-Lines scope.

Step 2: Complete Fingerprinting
California requires Live Scan fingerprinting through an approved Live Scan service provider. Schedule an appointment and complete the “Request for Live Scan Service” form (Form CDI 8016). Fingerprint results are transmitted electronically to the California Department of Justice and FBI. Fee: approximately $70.00 – $80.00 (varies by provider).

Step 3: Pass California State Examination
Register for the California adjuster examination through PSI Exams at psiexams.com. Exam specifications:

  • 150 multiple-choice questions
  • 3.5-hour time limit
  • Passing score: 70%
  • Exam fee: $60.00 (non-refundable)

The California examination covers state-specific insurance codes (California Insurance Code), Fair Claims Settlement Practices Regulations (10 CCR § 2695), and California-specific claims procedures. Texas exam preparation materials will not adequately prepare you for California content.

Step 4: Submit Application & Fees
After passing the examination, submit the California Adjuster License Application (Form CDI 8017) to the California Department of Insurance. Include:

  • Completed application form
  • Fingerprint clearance confirmation
  • Examination pass notice
  • Application fee: $245.00 – $295.00 (varies by license type; verify current fee schedule with CDI)

Step 5: Processing & Issuance
California Department of Insurance processes applications within 8-12 weeks. Processing times may extend during high-volume periods following catastrophic events. Monitor application status through the CDI online portal.

Professional Consideration: California’s lack of reciprocity creates a barrier to entry for out-of-state adjusters. However, California generates the highest claim volumes in the nation due to wildfires, earthquakes, and urban disaster events. Adjusters willing to invest in California licensure gain access to premium deployment opportunities and higher per-claim compensation rates compared to reciprocal states.

Continuing Education Requirements

California adjusters must complete continuing education for license renewal:

  • 24 hours of CE every two years
  • Minimum 3 hours of Ethics (California Insurance Code and regulatory focus)
  • CE must be completed through California Department of Insurance-approved providers

Texas CE credits do not transfer to California. Adjusters maintaining both licenses must complete separate CE requirements for each state.

Alternative: Emergency Adjuster Licensing

California offers temporary emergency adjuster licenses during declared states of emergency (typically following major wildfires or earthquakes). Emergency licenses:

  • Valid for 180 days (non-renewable)
  • Require sponsorship by a California-licensed insurer or independent adjusting firm
  • Do not require examination (waived during emergency declarations)
  • Expire automatically when emergency declaration is lifted

Emergency licenses provide short-term deployment opportunities but do not substitute for permanent California licensure. If you anticipate regular California assignments, obtain the standard permanent license.

Explore More Texas Adjuster Guides:

← Back to Home