To become an insurance adjuster in Arkansas, you'll need to meet the state's licensing requirements. The Arkansas Insurance Department requires adjusters to complete a pre-licensing course that covers topics such as insurance law, ethics, and property damage.
The pre-licensing course must be completed through a state-approved provider, and you'll need to pass a licensing exam to demonstrate your knowledge. The exam consists of a multiple-choice test with 100 questions, and you'll need to score at least 70% to pass.
Once you've passed the exam, you'll be issued a temporary license, which is valid for six months. During this time, you'll need to complete a background check and obtain a surety bond. The bond amount is $25,000, which is required by the Arkansas Insurance Department.
To maintain your license, you'll need to complete continuing education courses every two years. The Arkansas Insurance Department requires adjusters to complete 24 hours of continuing education, with a focus on ethics, insurance law, and industry developments.
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Becoming an Insurance Professional
Getting your Arkansas adjuster license can be a simple and easy process. The process ultimately depends on how you go about completing the required steps.
In Arkansas, getting your adjuster license can be a straightforward process.
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Requirements
To become an insurance adjuster in Arkansas, you'll need to meet the requirements set by the state. You must be at least 18 years old to apply.
You'll also need to be a resident of Arkansas, but if you're not, you'll need to apply for a different license. Non-residents won't be able to obtain an Arkansas adjuster license.
There are different types of adjuster licenses available in Arkansas, including General Adjuster (All-Lines), Casualty Adjuster, Property Adjuster, Workers' Compensation Adjuster (WC), and Crop Adjuster. Most people choose the General Adjuster (All-Lines) license, which gives you the most flexibility and looks best on a job application.
To get started, you'll need to complete a pre-licensing course, which will prepare you for the licensing exam. You can choose from an online course or self-study manual provided by A.D. Banker.
To maintain your adjuster license, you'll need to have at least one year of experience in claims adjustment, or you must work under the direct supervision of an Arkansas licensed adjuster for 1 year after licensure.
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Education and Training
To become an insurance adjuster in Arkansas, you'll need to complete a pre-licensing education course. This mandatory course must be completed before taking the licensing exam.
These courses cover topics such as claims adjusting, basic insurance information, state laws and mandates, and professional ethics. You'll need to complete at least 40 credit hours of education through an accredited provider.
You can take these courses online or in-person, whichever format fits your schedule better. AdjusterPro's online courses come highly recommended, with a 98% satisfaction rate among users.
After finishing your qualifying course, you'll receive a Certificate of Completion. Be sure to hold on to this, as you'll need to provide it as evidence when scheduling your licensing exam.
To pass the licensing exam, you'll need to complete an Arkansas Adjuster prelicensing course. This course is provided by A.D. Banker and is available in both online and self-study manual formats.
You'll need to pass the adjuster-licensing exam to become a licensed adjuster in Arkansas. To maintain your license, you'll need to have at least one year of experience in claims adjustment, or work under the direct supervision of an Arkansas licensed adjuster for 1 year after licensure.
Here are the requirements to complete a pre-licensing education course:
- Complete at least 40 credit hours of education through an accredited provider
- Course topics include claims adjusting, basic insurance information, state laws and mandates, and professional ethics
- Receive a Certificate of Completion after finishing your qualifying course
Licensing Process
To become an insurance adjuster in Arkansas, you'll need to go through the licensing process, which involves several steps. First, you'll need to pass the Licensing Exam, which includes the General Insurance Category exam and at least one other category or line of coverage.
The exam will be offered in three areas: Property, Casualty, and Workers Compensation. You must mark the lines or categories to be examined on the application.
Once you've completed your pre-licensing education, you'll need to submit your application through the National Insurance Producer Registry (NIPR). This includes filling out the online Criminal Background Check Form and paying a nonrefundable license fee of $55. You'll also need to prove that you have at least 12 months of experience working under a licensed adjuster.
After submitting your application, it will be reviewed by the Arkansas Department of Insurance. This process typically takes about 48 hours, and you may be asked to provide additional information or documentation depending on the results of your background check.
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Here is a summary of the licensing process:
Application
To start the application process, you'll need to submit your application online through the National Insurance Producer Registry (NIPR). The fee to submit an application is $55.
In Arkansas, you can submit your application online through the NIPR website, and you'll also be required to fill out the online Criminal Background Check Form. You'll need to pay a nonrefundable license fee of $55 as part of the application process.
As part of the application process, you're also required to prove that you have at least 12 months of experience working under a licensed adjuster. You can send this proof to the Licensing Division by email or mailing it to the following address: Arkansas Insurance Department, 1200 West Third Little Rock, AR 72201-1904, Attn: Licensing Division.
Once you submit your application, you'll need to email your Certificate of Completion from your pre-licensing education as well as your NIPR transaction number to [email protected]. The fee to submit an application is $55.
After submitting your application, you'll need to wait for the background check to come back and the licensing department to process all the paperwork. The Arkansas Insurance Department will contact you if they need any supporting documentation or have any questions.
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Exam
To pass the Arkansas adjuster license exam, you'll need to score at least 70% correct answers. This applies to all four types of adjuster exams: General, Property, Casualty, and Workers' Compensation.
Each exam has 25 questions and a time limit of 1 hour and 30 minutes. You can find more information on the exam format and outlines on the PSI Arkansas Insurance page.
The cost of each exam is $40, and you'll need to pay this fee when you make your reservation. You can register to take the exam on the PSI Exams Online website, and be sure to have your Certificate of Completion when registering.
The exam is proctored, meaning you'll be in a controlled environment with a person watching over you. It's a good idea to work on your timing and nerves before sitting for the exam.
Here's a breakdown of the exam details:
If you fail the exam, you'll receive a score report by email, which will include a diagnostic report indicating your strengths and weaknesses by examination type.
Certifications and Specializations
To become a successful insurance adjuster in Arkansas, you'll need to have the right certifications under your belt. Certifications show that you know your stuff and will give you a strong advantage over other candidates.
Focus on Xactimate and Insurance Company certifications first, as these are highly valued in the industry. Xactimate is the industry standard software used by adjusters and insurance companies, and having a strong understanding of it will serve you well.
You should strongly consider Xactimate levels one and two certifications now, and look into level three after you've spent some time in the field. This will give you a solid foundation to build on and make you a more competitive candidate.
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Continuing Education
As you work towards becoming an insurance adjuster in Arkansas, it's essential to understand the continuing education requirements.
To keep your Arkansas Adjuster License active, you must complete 24 hours of continuing education coursework every two years.
The renewal fee for your Arkansas Adjuster License is $120, which is a standard requirement for most state licenses that expire every two years.
You won't need to take CE courses for each state unless your home state specifically requires it, so you can focus on completing the required hours for Arkansas.
Here's a quick rundown of the requirements:
- Complete 24 hours of continuing education (CE) coursework
- Pay the renewal fee of $120
By following these simple steps, you'll be able to stay on top of your continuing education requirements and keep your license active.
Choosing a Career Path
To become an insurance adjuster in Arkansas, you'll need to have a strong understanding of the insurance industry and its various components.
Arkansas requires insurance adjusters to have a license, which involves passing a series of exams.
The Arkansas Insurance Department oversees the licensing process and provides resources for aspiring adjusters.
You'll want to consider your strengths and interests when deciding on a career path, and how they align with the role of an insurance adjuster.
Insurance adjusters must have strong analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as excellent communication and negotiation skills.
This career path may be a good fit if you're detail-oriented, enjoy working with numbers, and are comfortable with conflict resolution.
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Job Landing
Reaching out to IA firms is a good starting point to inquire about job openings and their hiring process. This is a proactive approach to finding employment as a staff adjuster or independent contractor.
To increase your chances of landing a job, create a resume specifically tailored to the claims industry. AdjusterPro students receive a copy of the Resume Guide and example templates after course completion.
Expanding your knowledge in the claims industry can also be beneficial. The Total Adjuster Package, which includes licensing course, Xactimate training, and the Adjuster Success Method, is a discounted bundle that can provide a proven strategy for success.
Roster up by getting on the rosters of the employers you want with a strategic and intentional campaign. Don't limit yourself to the largest 2 or 3 firms, as carriers are spreading their contracts around to medium and small firms to suit demand.
Here are some steps to follow up on your job search:
- Follow up on your resumes, job applications, and personal contacts with diligence.
- Network with local and national industry associations and insurance job boards.
- Stay compliant by keeping your licenses current and in good standing.
Being prepared to deploy quickly, especially during catastrophe season, is crucial. Always be ready to take an opportunity when it arises.
Is Claims Adjusting Right for You?
If you're considering a career in claims adjusting, it's essential to understand that it's not for everyone. You'll need to have self-discipline, a strong work ethic, and excellent communication skills to succeed in this field.
The good news is that claims adjusting is a stable industry with excellent earning potential. You can earn annual earnings in excess of $100,000 as an independent claims adjuster, while staff adjusters can earn salaries ranging from $45,000 to $80,000 or more.
Claims adjusting is a challenging but rewarding career, and the pay is certainly good. Helping people get back on their feet after a loss is a deeply satisfying line of work. The industry is rapidly evolving, and employers are struggling to fill the vacuum from a generation of adjusters who are retiring out of the industry.
There are three types of insurance adjusters: company adjusters, independent adjusters, and public adjusters. Company adjusters work directly for insurance companies, while independent adjusters are self-employed and can be hired by insurers in certain instances. Public adjusters work for the insured, not the insurer, and provide objective advice on settlements.
Curious to learn more? Check out: How to Become Independent Claims Adjuster
To become a claims adjuster, you'll need to meet the hard skills and qualifications, such as being at least 18 years old and holding a valid driver's license. However, it's the soft qualities that set great adjusters apart, such as self-discipline, an excellent work ethic, and great communication skills.
Here are the key differences between being a staff adjuster and an independent insurance adjuster:
Consider your career goals and whether you prefer the stability of a staff adjuster role or the flexibility of being an independent adjuster. Remember, catastrophe adjusters can be either staff or independent and will travel to hard-hit areas as needed.
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Sources
- https://www.harborcompliance.com/insurance-adjuster-business-license
- https://staterequirement.com/insurance-adjuster-licensing/arkansas-adjuster-license/
- https://adjustthis.com/adjuster-license/arkansas-adjuster-license/
- https://www.arkaa.org/post/how-to-become-an-insurance-adjuster-in-5-steps
- https://www.adbanker.com/licensing-requirements/insurance/arkansas/insurance-adjuster/
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