Haris Ashley
The role of an auto insurance adjuster is to investigate and review evidence to decide how much an insurance company should pay out following a claim. To become an auto insurance adjuster, you will need to gain experience, obtain a licence, and decide on your employment path. You can gain experience by completing a post-secondary degree, gaining vocational training, or working in an auto repair shop. You can then obtain a licence by completing pre-licensing classes and taking a licensing exam. Finally, you can choose to work as a staff adjuster or an independent adjuster. There are several books available that can help you to become an auto insurance adjuster, including 'The Adjuster! Making Insurance Claims Pay' by Gordon Smith, and 'Insurance Claims Adjuster: A Manual For Entering The Profession' by Charles C. Casterlin.
What You'll Learn
Gaining experience in automotive repair
Education and Training:
Complete a high school diploma or GED: This is the minimum requirement for many entry-level adjuster positions. If you don't plan to pursue a post-secondary degree, consider taking classes in auto body repair at vocational schools or community colleges to enhance your knowledge and marketability.
Pursue a post-secondary degree: Most companies prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree or advanced vocational training. Consider studying business, finance, or insurance, as these fields provide a solid foundation for a career in auto insurance adjustment.
Enrol in auto mechanic training and auto body estimating courses: These courses will provide you with the technical knowledge and skills needed to understand vehicle damage and repair processes, enabling you to make more accurate assessments and settlements.
Employment and Mentorship:
Gain employment in an auto repair shop: Working in an auto repair shop will provide you with hands-on experience in automotive repair and maintenance. This experience will be invaluable when assessing vehicle damage and estimating repair costs as an auto insurance adjuster.
Find a mentor in the field: Reach out to experienced auto insurance adjusters and express your interest in learning from them. Working under the guidance of a mentor will allow you to start with small claims and gradually take on more complex cases as your expertise grows.
Licensing and Certification:
Research the licensing requirements for your state: Each state has its own licensing regulations for auto insurance adjusters. Visit your state's Department of Insurance website to learn about specific requirements, including residency, education, and experience.
Complete pre-licensing classes: Depending on your state's requirements, enrol in pre-licensing classes to gain a comprehensive understanding of insurance regulations and automobile insurance. These classes will prepare you for the licensing exam.
Obtain any necessary certifications: In addition to licensing, some states may require specific certifications for auto insurance adjusters. Ensure that you meet all the necessary certification standards to comply with state regulations.
Continuous Learning:
Stay up to date with industry changes: Automotive technology and repair techniques evolve, so it's essential to stay informed about the latest advancements. Subscribe to industry publications, attend workshops, and join professional organizations to expand your knowledge and network with peers.
Develop strong communication and interpersonal skills: As an auto insurance adjuster, you'll frequently interact with claimants, repair shops, and other professionals. Effective communication and interpersonal skills will enable you to build trust, resolve conflicts, and provide excellent customer service.
By following these steps and gaining experience in automotive repair, you'll be well on your way to becoming a knowledgeable and successful auto insurance adjuster.
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Obtaining a high school diploma or equivalent
If you choose not to pursue a post-secondary degree, you can enhance your qualifications by taking classes related to auto body repair at vocational schools or community colleges. This additional training can make your application more competitive when applying for entry-level insurance adjuster positions.
It is important to note that specific requirements may vary depending on the state and the type of insurance adjuster role you are seeking. Some states may have different educational requirements or expect you to obtain an insurance adjusting license, so be sure to research the specific guidelines for your desired path and location.
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Earning a bachelor's degree or advanced vocational training
A bachelor's degree is often preferred by employers when hiring auto insurance adjusters. Relevant majors include communications, which can help develop the strong communication skills required for the role. Other important skills for insurance adjusters include computer literacy, time management, and customer service skills such as patience and empathy.
If you are pursuing a bachelor's degree, you can also gain work experience in an auto repair shop, which will help you learn how to estimate the cost of repairing various types of damage. This work experience, combined with a bachelor's degree, will help set you apart from other candidates when applying for auto insurance adjuster positions.
In addition to a bachelor's degree, advanced vocational training can also be beneficial when pursuing a career as an auto insurance adjuster. There are several training providers that offer in-person classes and hands-on training programs to help you develop the skills and knowledge needed for the role. These programs can range from a few days to several weeks in length and often cover topics such as insurance regulation, automobile insurance, and claims management.
By earning a bachelor's degree or completing advanced vocational training, you can gain the knowledge and skills needed to become a successful auto insurance adjuster. This, combined with the necessary licensing and experience, can help you build a strong foundation for a career in auto insurance adjustment.
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Choosing between staff, independent or public adjuster roles
When it comes to choosing between staff, independent, or public adjuster roles, it's important to understand the key differences between these positions. Here's an overview to help you make an informed decision:
Staff Adjuster
A staff adjuster, also known as a company adjuster, is a full-time salaried employee of a specific insurance company. They work exclusively for the insurance company and represent its interests when handling insurance claims. Staff adjusters can be further categorized into desk adjusters and field adjusters. Desk adjusters process claims remotely from their desks, while field adjusters go on-site to inspect and assess damage. Staff adjusters typically work in a specific geographic location and have a consistent schedule, although some may travel depending on their role.
Independent Adjuster
Independent adjusters are hired on a contract basis and often work for multiple insurance companies or independent adjusting firms. They are not employees but rather business owners. Independent adjusters are typically engaged when additional support is needed, especially during catastrophic events. They represent the insurance company and its interests when handling claims. Independent adjusters are usually paid based on the number of claims they handle and can be paid per claim, hourly, or on a daily basis. This role offers work consistency and a steady income stream. However, it can be overwhelming due to the high volume of claims and the need to travel frequently.
Public Adjuster
Public adjusters, also known as private adjusters, work exclusively for the policyholder or the public. They represent the interests of homeowners or business owners against the insurance company. Public adjusters can work independently or as part of a public adjusting firm. They are paid through a commission, typically a percentage of the final settlement amount. Public adjusters have the freedom to make their own schedules, but they may face inconsistent income due to the unpredictable nature of the work. This role offers the potential for higher earnings on individual claims and allows you to be your own boss. However, finding work as a public adjuster can be challenging, especially when starting.
In summary, the choice between staff, independent, or public adjuster roles depends on your personal preferences, work style, and career goals. Consider factors such as job consistency, income stability, level of independence, and whom you want to represent in the claims process.
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Completing pre-licensing classes and exams
To become an auto insurance adjuster, you will need to complete pre-licensing classes and exams. This process can vary depending on the state in which you plan to practice, so it is important to check the specific requirements for your state. Some states do not require pre-licensing classes or exams, but even in these cases, it is recommended to obtain a Designated Home State (DHS) license, which certifies adjusters to work on a range of claims, including residential, commercial, and automobile.
For states that do require pre-licensing, you will need to take a certain number of hours of training. These classes are offered in both online and classroom settings and may be provided by private companies or by the state. The classes will cover topics such as insurance regulation and automobile insurance. After completing the required number of training hours, you will need to pass a state licensing exam. This exam will test your knowledge of relevant topics, including personal automobile insurance coverage, state laws, and fair claims settlement practices.
To prepare for the exam, you can make use of study materials and practice exams provided by your state's Department of Insurance website. You may also choose to take an exam prep course, which will provide a comprehensive overview of the exam topics and help you feel confident and well-prepared. These courses are offered by private companies and may be available in a variety of formats, including live online, on-demand, and self-study options.
Once you have passed the licensing exam, you will need to complete the license application process, which may include submitting certificates, undergoing a background check, and paying a fee. This process can also vary by state, so be sure to review the specific requirements provided by your state's Department of Insurance.
In addition to pre-licensing classes and exams, there are also several books that can help you prepare for a career as an auto insurance adjuster. These include "Insurance Claims Adjuster: A Manual For Entering The Profession" by Charles C. Casterlin, which provides an overview of the licensing process and the duties of a claims adjuster. There are also several "Playbook" guides by Chris Stanley, which cover a range of topics, including how to become a successful independent adjuster, writing auto damage estimates, and creating a compelling resume.
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Frequently asked questions
To become an auto insurance adjuster, you need a high school diploma or GED. Some vocational schools and community colleges offer classes to learn more about auto body repair, which can make you a more competitive candidate for entry-level positions.
Most companies prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree, advanced vocational training, or insurance industry work experience. Relevant areas of study and experience include employment in an auto repair shop.
You can choose to work as a staff adjuster or an independent adjuster. Staff adjusters are employed full-time at insurance companies, while independent adjusters are contractors who work for one or several insurance companies.
First, determine the licensing requirements for the state where you want to practice. Some states require pre-licensing classes, which may be offered online or in a classroom setting. Then, take the licensing exam, if required by your state. Finally, complete the license application process, which may include submitting your pre-licensing class certificate, undergoing a background check, and paying a fee.
