“The best investment you can make is in yourself.” — Warren Buffett. If you’re considering a career as a public insurance adjuster in Texas, you’re looking at an industry that offers stability, independence, and a real opportunity to help people. But before you can dive in, you need to navigate the licensing process. The good news? It’s straightforward—if you know exactly what to do. This guide will take you step by step through everything you need to obtain your public adjuster license in Texas, from passing the state exam to submitting your application. No fluff. Just the facts you need to start your career.
Step 1: Meet the Requirements
Before you begin, make sure you’re eligible. Texas law defines a public insurance adjuster as someone who represents policyholders in claim negotiations with insurance companies. This means you’re advocating for individuals and businesses—not insurance companies.
To legally work in Texas, you must be licensed by the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI). That means:
- You must be at least 18 years old.
- You must pass a background check.
- You need to obtain a $10,000 surety bond (more on that later).
- You need to pass the state exam (unless exempt).
If you meet those criteria, it’s time to start the process.
Step 2: Pass the Texas Public Adjuster Exam
This is where most people trip up. The Texas Public Adjuster Exam is 100 multiple-choice questions, covering:
- Insurance policies (home, commercial, flood, and more).
- Insurance terms and concepts.
- Texas state regulations and ethics.
You’ll need at least 70% to pass, and the test is proctored by Pearson VUE. The exam fee is $48, and you can register on their website.
Who Is Exempt from the Exam?
- If your license expired less than a year ago, you don’t need to retake the exam.
- If you already hold a public adjuster license in another state, Texas may grant reciprocity.
This test isn’t designed to be easy. The first-time pass rate is only about 57%. That means studying is non-negotiable.
Step 3: Get Fingerprinted for a Background Check
Texas law requires all public adjusters to pass a fingerprint background check. This ensures you don’t have any disqualifying criminal history.
How to Get Fingerprinted
- Schedule an appointment with IdentoGO (available online or by calling 1-888-467-2080).
- Bring a valid photo ID.
- Pay the fingerprinting fee (varies by location, typically around $40).
Your fingerprints will be electronically submitted to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the FBI.
Step 4: Obtain a $10,000 Surety Bond
To operate legally in Texas, you must secure a $10,000 surety bond. This bond acts as financial protection for clients in case you violate the law or fail to fulfill your duties ethically.
Where to Get a Surety Bond
You can purchase a bond online from state-approved providers. The cost is usually $100 per year.
Once purchased, you’ll need to upload a copy of your bond when submitting your application.
Step 5: Submit Your Application Online
Now that you’ve passed the exam, completed your fingerprinting, and secured your surety bond, it’s time to apply for your public adjuster license in Texas. This is done through Sircon, Texas’ online licensing portal.
Application Process:
- Go to Sircon and create an account.
- Fill out the application form.
- Upload your documents (fingerprint receipt, surety bond, and exam proof if required).
- Pay the $50 application fee.
Once submitted, the Texas Department of Insurance typically processes applications within two to three weeks.
What About Renewals & Continuing Education?
Your public adjuster license must be renewed every two years. The renewal fee is $50, and you must complete 24 hours of continuing education (CE).
CE Requirements:
- 3 hours must be ethics-related.
- 12 hours must be classroom or equivalent.
If you don’t meet these requirements, Texas charges a $50 fine per missing CE hour (up to $500 max). If you’ve been licensed for 20 consecutive years, you’re exempt from CE requirements.
Texas Public Adjuster License: Business vs. Individual
If you’re planning to start your own public adjusting firm, the licensing requirements are slightly different.
For Agencies (Firms):
- You must have a Texas Designated Responsible Licensed Producer (DRLP) on staff.
- All executive officers, directors, and partners must be disclosed.
- The agency must be registered with the Texas Secretary of State.
- The agency must also hold a $10,000 surety bond.
If you’re applying as an individual adjuster, you’ll follow the standard steps outlined above.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The process can take anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks, depending on how quickly you complete each step. The Texas Department of Insurance typically processes applications within two to three weeks after submission.
The total cost includes:
> Exam fee: $48
> Fingerprinting fee: Around $40
> Application fee: $50
> Surety bond: $100 per year
> Total estimated cost: $238+ (varies based on providers and location).
Yes, you must pass the Texas Public Adjuster Exam unless you qualify for an exemption. The test consists of 100 multiple-choice questions, and you need at least 70% to pass.
Your license must be renewed every two years. You’ll need to complete 24 hours of continuing education (CE), including 3 hours in ethics.
If you fail to complete your 24 CE hours, Texas imposes a $50 fine per missing hour, with a maximum penalty of $500.
Yes. If your home state has a reciprocity agreement with Texas, you may be able to apply for a non-resident Texas license without taking the exam.
Yes, Texas law requires public adjusters to hold a $10,000 surety bond as financial protection for policyholders. This bond must be uploaded with your license application.
Final Thoughts: Get Licensed & Start Your Career
Becoming a licensed public adjuster in Texas isn’t just about passing a test—it’s about building a career that offers real impact. Policyholders trust you to advocate for them when dealing with insurance claims. And in return? You get a rewarding career with strong earning potential and job security.
Quick Recap:
- Pass the Exam (or qualify for an exemption).
- Get Fingerprinted for your background check.
- Obtain a $10,000 Surety Bond.
- Submit Your Application Online via Sircon.
- Complete CE Every Two Years to Stay Licensed.
This guide is for informational purposes only. TX Public Adjusting is a professional public adjusting company and does not offer licensing assistance. If you need official information on obtaining your license, please refer to the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI).
