If you’re serious about a career in insurance adjusting, getting licensed in New York is one of the smartest (and most strategic) moves you can make. But fair warning: it’s not easy. The New York Series 17-70 General Adjuster License is known as one of the toughest licenses in the country. No reciprocity. No shortcuts. Just a very real opportunity to stand out in a competitive industry.
So, how do you get your New York adjuster license—and is it really worth it?
Is the New York Adjuster License Worth It?
Yes—if you want to work claims in New York (and be in constant demand with IA firms), licensing is a must. Unlike many other states, New York does not offer reciprocity, so if you want to adjust any type of claim there, you’ll need to pass their exam and apply directly. This makes New York adjusters rarer—and more valuable.
Step-by-Step: How to Get Your NY Independent Adjuster License
Step 1: Determine which New York License You Need
New York offers several different adjuster licenses, so it’s important to determine which license you’re going for and proceed with prepping and testing accordingly. Unless your employer has directed otherwise, we recommend obtaining the New York General Adjuster Series: 17-70 License. THIS is the in-demand license, covering the most lines of authority.
New York Adjuster License Types:
- New York General Adjuster: Series 17-70
- New York Auto Adjuster: Series: 17-66
- New York Fire Adjuster: Series 17-64
- New York Casualty Adjuster: Series 17-65
- New York Inland Marine Adjuster: Series 17-69
- New York Independent Motor Vehicle No Fault & Workers’ Comp Health Services Adjuster: Series 17-72
Make sure your exam prep, state exam, and application are all for your desired license type.
Step 2: Meet Basic Requirements
You must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be trustworthy and competent
- Have no felony or fraud-related convictions
Step 3: Prepare for the State Exam (This Part Matters)
New York doesn’t require pre-licensing courses, but don’t let that fool you. The state has detailed rules and regulations that every adjuster must follow, regardless of license type. The 17-70 exam is particularly intense—100 questions, 2 hours, and a 70% passing score. It’s considered one of, if not the toughest, exams in the country. Most people won’t pass without structured preparation. But we think it’s worth it, as adjusters who hold this license are always in demand.
We highly recommend taking a professional prep course. AdjusterPro’s NY 17-70 Prep Course ($199) includes reference materials, quizzes, and practice tests that simulate the real exam. You should be scoring 90%+ on practice exams before scheduling your real one.
All of AdjusterPro’s courses have been rigorously prepared and are regularly updated so no matter which license you’re pursuing, you can feel confident in passing your state exam. Our online classroom allows you to see your progress and exam readiness, take practice tests, and even create your own quizzes and flashcards to help with subjects you are struggling with. Once you’re consistently making 90% on your practice tests and passing all the quizzes with flying colors…it’s exam time!
Step 4: Register and Take the New York Adjuster Exam
- Register at PSI Exams Online ($33 fee)
- Make sure to register for the licensing exam that corresponds to your prep course
- Schedule your test at a PSI center
- Be sure to cancel/reschedule 2+ days in advance to avoid losing your fee
Step 5: Submit an Application for Your New York Adjuster License
After passing the exam, you need to submit your adjuster license application. To do so, follow the New York State Department of Financial Services (NYDFS) submission requirements for IA (Independent Adjuster) Applicants.
- Get fingerprinted via IdentoGo ($87 fee)
- New York residents must do this electronically
- Out-of-state applicants can submit a fingerprint card
- See detailed fingerprinting information
- Complete the Independent Adjuster Application via the New York Department of Financial Services (NYDFS) portal
- Make sure to apply for the license type that matches the exam you passed
- You may need to disable “Pop-up Blockers” in your browser before using the portal
- Pay the $100 licensing fee (credit card, e-check, or mailed check)
- Submit:
- Original score report
- Signed IdentoGo pre-enrollment confirmation
- Select “7777 Pre-Licensing Waived” when prompted
After 3 to 4 weeks, you can check the status of your license on the NYDFS License Search page. For a complete list of application details, visit the NYDFS website.
Step 6: Maintain and Renew Your License
- New York doesn’t require CE hours for adjusters
- Licenses expire on December 31st of every even-numbered year
- Renewal fee: $50
- Renew your license through NYDFS Login.
What Does it Cost to get A New York Adjuster License?
| Fee | Cost |
|---|---|
| AdjusterPro Exam Prep Courses | $199 (optional but recommended) |
| Exam Fee | $33 |
| Fingerprints | $87 |
| Licensing Fee | $100 or $50 (depends on year of cycle) |
| Renewal | $50 |
Estimated Total: $419 if taking a prep course.
Why New York Adjusters are Always in Demand
Reciprocity means an adjuster holding a home state license can apply for an adjuster license in another state without having to take that state’s exam. If you want to learn more about reciprocity and why it’s vital to your success, visit our Reciprocity: The Truth About Adjuster Licensing Agreements Between States blog article.
Because New York doesn’t offer any reciprocity, few adjusters are licensed there. That makes the ones who are licensed more attractive to IA firms looking to expand or handle high-volume claims. Passing the New York exam isn’t just a license—it’s a competitive edge.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re ready to become one of the few licensed New York independent adjusters, start with a quality prep course. Whether you go with AdjusterPro or another provider, just make sure you’re setting yourself up to succeed on the first try.
Need help? Check out our New York Adjuster Exam Prep Courses and become the adjuster IA firms call first.
New York Department of Financial Services Contact Information
Website: New York Department of Financial Services: Insurance
Mailing Address:
New York Department of Financial Services
Licensing Bureau
One Commerce Plaza,
Albany, NY 12257
Phone: 800-342-3736
Email: [email protected]
