SuretyBonds.com has developed this comprehensive licensing guide to explain how to get licensed as a public adjuster in Louisiana. Follow this Louisiana Public Adjuster License Guide to understand Louisiana Department of Insurance registration requirements.
In a time of already immense uncertainty in the world, hurricane and tropical storm season introduces another obstacle to overcome. As hurricanes and tropical storms approach and strike gulf coast states, including Louisiana, it is best to be prepared. Whether that preparation includes gathering flashlights, water, food, and first-aid kits or preparing to become a public adjuster, all forms of preparation can put the mind at ease.
What is a public adjuster?
A public adjuster is defined as a person or individual who prepares, finishes, or files an insurance claim for an insured individual seeking damages. It is the duty of a public insurance adjuster to act with objectivity on behalf of a policyholder arranging a policy claim on property insurance.
How do I become a public adjuster in Louisiana?
The Louisiana Department of Insurance regulates licenses in the state of Louisiana. Applicants seeking a license must undergo a five-step process that includes completing an application, passing an examination, and providing the state with fingerprints and proof of surety bond purchase.
1. Submit license application through NIPR
When applying for a new license, individuals must submit an online application through the National Insurance Producer Registry. Candidates can apply as individuals or as business entities. In order to begin the application process, candidates must provide either a license number, national producer number, or social security number.
2. Complete pre-licensing education
All candidates must complete the required hours of pre-licensing education to become a public adjuster. Once the pre-licensure education has been completed successfully, education providers will submit an applicant’s information to the licensing exam vendor, PSI Exams.
3. Pass the Louisiana Public Adjuster Series 301 licensing exam
Public adjusters in the state of Louisiana should plan to take and pass a licensing exam at least one business day after submitting the online application to the Louisiana Department of Insurance. In the state of Louisiana, PSI Exams administer examinations for applicants.
To sign up for an examination, applicants should visit PSI’s website and create an account. After entering a first and last name and email address, applicants have to select an examination type and provide a social security number. Make sure to check the box right next to “Check here to attempt to locate existing records for you in the system.”
Once the aforementioned information is entered into the system, applicants should be ready to schedule an exam. To do so, enter a zip code to find a list of testing site locations. Selecting the desired test site will showcase available dates. Additionally, candidates must pay a fee of $15.00 when signing up for an exam. The Louisiana Public Adjuster Series 301 exam has a time limit of 120 minutes to complete.
Furthermore, should an individual prefer to sign up for an exam time and location over the phone, PSI registrars are available for scheduling Monday-Friday from 6:30am to 9:00pm, and Saturday-Sunday from 8:00am to 4:30pm CT at (800) 733-9267.
4. Submit fingerprints for a criminal background check.
The Louisiana Department of Insurance will conduct a state and national fingerprint-based criminal history record. Electronic fingerprints must be taken at one of PSI Louisiana sites on the same day of the licensing examination. The fee for fingerprinting is $58.00 (state processing fee is $38.00, and PSI processing fee is $20.00). In addition, the fingerprinting process can take up to 4 weeks.
5. Purchase and file a surety bond.
The Louisiana Department of Insurance requires applicants to have a Louisiana public adjuster surety bond in the amount of $50,000. Public adjuster surety bonds remain in effect for one year. A new bond must be filed with the state for each new renewal term as long as the license remains active.
How do I get a public adjuster surety bond in Louisiana?
You can purchase a Louisiana Public Adjuster Bond online 24/7 and receive your official public adjuster document set instantly in your email once you’ve submitted your payment. You can also call 1(800)308-4358 to speak with a surety expert about your bonding needs.
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