Florida Designated Home State Adjuster License: What You Need to Know

The Florida Designated Home State (DHS) Adjuster License (70-20) provides a pathway for adjusters who reside in states that do not offer a resident adjuster license. By designating Florida as their home state, adjusters can meet licensing requirements and maintain compliance while operating across multiple jurisdictions. However, this license comes with specific qualifications, continuing education requirements, and appointment rules that must be carefully managed. Understanding these requirements is critical for both individual adjusters and organizations overseeing multi-state licensing.

Who Needs a Florida DHS Adjuster License

The Florida DHS Adjuster License is designed for individuals who cannot obtain a resident adjuster license in their home state. This includes adjusters living in states that do not license adjusters, as well as company adjusters residing in states that only license independent adjusters.

By obtaining a DHS license, these professionals can establish a “home state” license, which is often required to apply for and maintain non-resident licenses in other states.

How the License Works

Once licensed under Florida’s DHS designation, the adjuster must meet the same standards as a Florida resident adjuster. This includes either obtaining an approved designation (such as AIC or CPCU) or passing the Florida All-Lines Adjuster exam.

Additionally, license holders must complete Florida’s continuing education requirements, which consist of 24 hours every two years, due by the end of the licensee’s birth month.

Key Compliance Requirements

Maintaining a Florida DHS Adjuster License requires careful attention to several compliance factors:

• The license must be actively appointed to remain valid
• Florida CE courses must be completed bi-annually before the end of your birth month
• Only one appointment may be held at a time
• The license will expire if unappointed for 48 months
• Individuals cannot hold multiple Florida adjuster licenses simultaneously

These requirements make it essential to actively monitor license status and appointment activity.

Pro Tip: No matter the state requirements or reciprocity agreements, experienced professionals’ complete CE at least 180 days before expiration to ensure a smooth, issue-free renewal process. Your license and livelihood depend on it.

Why This License Matters for Multi-State Adjusters

For adjusters working across multiple states, the DHS license plays a critical role in establishing eligibility for non-resident licensing. Without a designated home state, obtaining licenses in other states can be difficult or impossible.

This also highlights the importance of understanding state-specific licensing rules and maintaining proper oversight to ensure compliance across jurisdictions.

Laura’s Takeaway

The Florida Designated Home State Adjuster License provides a valuable solution for adjusters who lack a resident licensing option in their home state. While it offers flexibility and access to multi-state opportunities, it also requires ongoing attention to education, appointments, and compliance requirements.

For organizations with licensing teams, understanding how and when to use a DHS license is key to supporting adjusters and maintaining compliance across state lines.

Share this blog on