From time to time we get people asking us if it is possible to get an insurance adjuster license with the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) when they have a felony or a misdemeanor on their record.

The short answer is YES.

The real answer is, it is taken on a case-by-case basis.

Now for the background and details.   Currently the question is dealt with on #7 of the licensing application. Here are the questions that you will need to answer on the Texas Department of Insurance application.

Notice that it is EXCLUDING traffic violations and first offense DWI. Then, if you have ever been convicted or have any pending charges, you must disclose them. You are required to submit certified copies of the documents listed in reference to your conviction or current case.

The good part is that you get to submit a statement telling about what led up to the offense and share your side of the story. Be professional, honest, and factual. This isn’t a place to rant of injustice but a place to give them comfort that you are now someone they can trust with a license and not be a danger to the public.

The second opportunity to plead your case is through the letters of recommendations. TDI allows you to submit as many letters of recommendation that you feel appropriate from people that are “aware of your criminal past.” These letters should address the conviction and character descriptions that will make TDI feel that you are responsible and not a danger to the public if you were to become an insurance adjuster. Take the time to get two or three good letters that say more than “Bob is a good guy.” You need to have someone that will address their honest opinion of you and why they feel you could serve in the capacity of an adjuster without being a danger to the public.

Just because you have a criminal history doesn’t automatically preclude you from being an adjuster. It will cause your application to come under scrutiny from the licensing department though. Although it is not published, it is inferred that there are certain convictions that stop them from even considering offering you a license.

Although I wish they would make a determination before you go through the application process, they don’t. You need to take your test or pre-licensing course first and then submit your application and wait for a determination. Although you are definitely in the minority if you are submitting an application with a felony on your record, don’t lose hope. Although you will not get a determination from TDI before you submit your application, we always recommend you get in touch with them and allow them to walk you through the process. You  can reach the Texas Department of Insurance at 512-676-6500.