To get an Idaho Adjuster license, you’ll pass the exam, file your application and fees, then submit your fingerprints for a background check.
A common question we receive is: How much is the Idaho adjuster license? Prices will vary depending on the type of license, but the most common license will cost as little as $395.
Another common question is: How long does it take to get the Idaho adjuster license? If you take the proper time to study and pass the exam on your first attempt, the process should take around 3-4 weeks.
Step 1: Idaho Adjuster License Course
The first step to getting your adjuster license is taking your test-prep course.
The prices of these courses range depending on the provider and level of coursework, but generally start around $139.
Be sure that you’re comfortable with the material in the coursework before moving on to your state exam.
Difficulty is a subjective matter, but we answer this question with: Yes. The exam is intentionally tough.
The overall pass rate for the Idaho Adjuster Exam is about 57%.
Don’t let this discourage you. Keep in mind that most folks who take this exam haven’t taken any formal tests since high school or college. The state intentionally makes these tests difficult in the hopes of protecting the average citizen from working with adjusters who don’t understand the laws and guidelines surrounding insurance.
The key to passing the exam is to take your exam-prep course seriously and allow yourself time for in-depth study.
Military members and their spouses may be eligible for waived licensing fees. Check this page for more info and to apply.
Step 4: Submit Fingerprints
Once you’ve submitted your license application, the last step in the process is to submit your fingerprints for your background check.
You can complete your fingerprint submission through Pearson VUE, using the account you created to schedule our exam.
You will need to print your fingerprint form, pay the $61.25 fingerprint fee online, then mail your completed form and a printed payment confirmation via USPS to:
Idaho Dept. of Insurance Fingerprints OHTI 1125B Avenida High View Rd. Driftwood, TX 78619
Note
Submitting your fingerprints will initiate a background check. If you have any past offenses on your record and are curious of your eligibility for an insurance license, reach out to the Idaho Department of Insurance for clarification.
Application and Background Check Processing
Once you’ve completed all of the steps above you’ll just need to wait for the background check to come back and the licensing department to process all the paperwork. The IDOI will contact you if they need any supporting documentation or have any questions. Be sure to respond promptly to any requests.
If everything goes smoothly, you’ll receive a message from the licensing department within 5-10 business days containing your license number and any other pertinent information. You can check the status of your license online using the Sircon website.
Now that you’re licensed, you can get to work! Most folks take one of two paths at this point. They choose to become an independent adjuster or a staff adjuster.
The main difference is that staff adjusters are employed by one firm, usually an insurance company, whereas independent adjusters operate as contractors, normally being “rostered” to multiple Independent Adjusting (IA) firms.
If you’re interested in becoming a staff adjuster, check out the current job openings on StateRequirement Jobs.
If the independent adjuster role is more alluring (we think it is), check out this IA Directory.
Adjuster Certifications
To be considered a great candidate for IA firms or insurance companies, you’ll need to prove that you know how to actually work an insurance claim. Certifications show that you know your stuff and will give you a strong advantage over other candidates.
While there are several adjuster certifications available, focus on Xactimate and Insurance Company certs first.
You should strongly consider levels one and two now, and look into level three after you’ve spent some time in the field.
Insurance Company Adjuster Certifications
Large insurance companies like State Farm, Allstate, Liberty Mutual, and others require that adjusters (staff or independent) get their specific certifications.
To get these certs, you’ll need to be on the roster of an IA firm that works with that company. They offer courses to their adjusters throughout the year. Staff adjusters that work for the insurance company will be provided training and certification through their employer.
It’s widely accepted that State Farm’s adjuster certification is the most valuable insurance company cert. They are the largest insurer in the US, and therefore have more claims than other insurers.
Out-of-State and Reciprocal Licensing
Most claims, especially catastrophe (CAT) claims come from weather events. And since you can’t control the weather, you should get licenses in states outside your home state. These are called Non-Resident Adjuster Licenses.
IA firms are much more likely to both roster you and select you for work if you are licensed in states where they operate. If you’re already on a roster or two, talk with your contact there to see if they recommend a state to get licensed in.
The best states to start with are generally those that neighbor your home state. For Idaho, this includes:
Washington
Oregon
Montana
Wyoming
All these states offer what’s called reciprocation with Idaho. This means that you don’t need to take a pre-licensing course or pass an exam in order to get their license. All you need to do is apply, pay the fee, and you’ll be licensed quickly.
License Renewal and Continuing Education
The Idaho Adjuster License expires every two years. The expiration date of your license is set as the last day of your birth month.
The renewal fee for an Idaho adjuster license is $60.
Any additional non-resident licenses you hold will also expire. Most state licenses expire every two years and require a renewal fee. Note that unless the state specifically requires it, you will not be required to take CE courses for each state – just your home state.