How to Become an Appraiser in Rhode Island
A career in real estate appraisal offers many benefits, including high income potential, diverse work opportunities, and the option to be your own boss.
Do you want to learn how to become an appraiser in Rhode Island, or how to upgrade to a higher license level? No matter where you’re at along your career path, McKissock Learning has the appraisal courses and resources you need to achieve your goals.
Rhode Island Appraiser License: Trainee
How to become an appraiser in Rhode Island
To become a real estate appraiser in Rhode Island, the first thing you’ll need to do is get your Trainee license. As a Trainee Appraiser, you’ll work under a Supervisory Appraiser to acquire essential on-the-job experience. You will learn how to collect property data, conduct market research, and develop an opinion of value, and communicate your findings in the form of an appraisal report.
Take these steps to become a Trainee Appraiser in Rhode Island:
Step 1: Complete the required education.
You’ll need to pass 79 hours of Rhode Island appraiser education, including three AQB basic qualifying education courses and a Supervisor/Trainee course:
- Basic Appraisal Principles (30 hours)
- Basic Appraisal Procedures (30 hours)
- 15-Hour National USPAP Course (15 hours)
- Supervisor/Trainee Course for Rhode Island (4 hours)
Step 2: Connect with a supervisor.
You must find a Certified Appraiser who will agree to act as your designated Supervisory Appraiser. It’s a good idea to begin searching for a supervisor early on. You can do this while completing the appraisal courses in Step 1.
Step 3: Apply for your Trainee license.
Apply to obtain your Trainee Appraiser license from the Rhode Island Real Estate Appraisers Board. Your application package should include the following:
- Trainee Appraiser Application
- Application fee
- Criminal History Record
- Education certificates of completion
- Trainee Affidavit (completed by Supervisory Appraiser)
Important: Verify all requirements with the Rhode Island licensing board. For more information, contact the Rhode Island Real Estate Appraisers Board at 401.462.9548.
Next steps after you become a Trainee Appraiser
After you receive your Trainee license, you can start working under your Supervisory Appraiser and logging your required appraisal experience hours. On top of that, you’ll need to take additional licensing and certification courses and then pass a national exam to become a Licensed, Certified Residential, or Certified General Appraiser in Rhode Island.
When you are fully licensed or certified, then you can begin doing appraisals independently (without supervision). You may choose to start your own appraisal business so that you can work for yourself and control your own schedule. Or you may choose to work as a full-time employee at a government agency, bank, or large appraisal firm.
Navigate to the “Licensed Residential,” “Certified Residential,” and “Certified General” tabs at the top of the page to read the requirements for each license level.
Rhode Island Trainee Appraiser (79 hours) – AQB recommended course order
Online Info
Required Education:
79 Hours.
Basic Appraisal Principles – 30 hours
Basic Appraisal Procedures – 30 hours
National USPAP Course or Equivalent – 15 hours
Supervisor/Trainee Course for Rhode Island – 4 hours
2015 AQB Supervisor/Trainee Course Requirement: Both the Trainee Appraiser and Supervisory Appraiser shall be required to complete a course that, at minimum, complies with the specifications for course content established by the AQB. The course must be completed by the Trainee Appraiser prior to obtaining a Trainee Appraiser credential, and completed by the Supervisory Appraiser prior to supervising a Trainee Appraiser.
Experience: N/A
College Education: N/A
Online Limitations
Roster
Governing Agency
FAQs about how to become an appraiser in Rhode Island
How much do Trainee Appraisers make?
The average yearly income for Trainee Appraisers across the U.S. is $53,218, according to McKissock’s 2023 Appraisal Salary Guide. When you advance beyond the Trainee level and begin working independently as a licensed or certified real estate appraiser, you can expect to earn more.
Can I work part-time as an appraiser in Rhode Island?
Yes. While most people choose real estate appraisal as a full-time career, you can also appraise properties part-time or on the side. For example, you may choose to work part-time while completing your education and training, then transition to full-time when the time is right for you.
Helpful resources
Rhode Island Appraiser License: Licensed Residential
How to become a Licensed Residential Appraiser in Rhode Island
In Rhode Island, Licensed Residential Appraisers (also called home appraisers) can appraise non-complex residential properties having 1–4 units and a transaction value of less than $1,000,000. They can also appraise complex residential properties having 1–4 units and a transaction value of less than $250,000.
To become a Licensed Residential Appraiser in Rhode Island, you must:
- Complete 154 hours of appraisal qualifying education courses (includes trainee courses)
- Complete 1,000 hours of acceptable work experience in no fewer than 6 months
- Pass the National Uniform Licensing and Certification Exam for Licensed Residential Appraisers
Apply to sit for the AQB-approved national exam required to upgrade your credential from Trainee to Licensed Residential Appraiser by submitting the following items to the Board:
- Letter of intent (stating your intent to upgrade your existing credential)
- Education certificates of completion
- Appraiser Experience Log (signed by you and your supervisor)
Important: Verify all requirements with the Rhode Island licensing board. For more information, contact the Rhode Island Real Estate Appraisers Board at 401.462.9548.
Next steps after submitting your application
The Board will notify you via email as to which appraisal reports from your Experience Log should be submitted for review by a Board member. If the Board approves those reports at a regularly scheduled meeting, they will send you an approved examination card via regular mail. Fees may apply.
Rhode Island Licensed Residential Appraiser (154 hours) – AQB recommended course order
Online Info
Required Education:
154 Hours.
Basic Appraisal Principles – 30 hours.
Basic Appraisal Procedures – 30 hours.
National USPAP Course or Equivalent – 15 hours
Supervisor/Trainee Course for Rhode Island – 4 hours
Residential Market Analysis & Highest and Best Use – 15 hours.
Residential Appraiser Site Valuation and Cost Approach – 15 hours.
Residential Sales Comparison and Income Approaches – 30 hours.
Residential Report Writing and Case Studies – 15 hours.
Experience: 1,000 hours of acceptable appraisal experience in not less than 6 months.
College Education: No college-level education required.
Online Limitations
Roster
Governing Agency
FAQs about becoming a Licensed Appraiser in Rhode Island
How much do home appraisers make in Rhode Island?
According to Salary.com, the average salary for residential real estate appraisers in Rhode Island ranges from $53,600 to $108,024.1,2 The Bureau of Labor Statistics lists the mean annual wage of Rhode Island property appraisers and assessors as $79,260.3 Glassdoor gives a much higher estimate, listing the average yearly salary for Rhode Island home appraisers as $135,476.4
Appraisal income is influenced by several factors, such as license level, location, years of experience, hours worked per week, and specialized skills or certifications.
Do I need a college degree to become a Licensed Residential Appraiser in Rhode Island?
No. You do not need any college-level education to become a Licensed Residential real estate appraiser in Rhode Island.
What is the highest level of appraiser?
The highest level of real estate appraiser is the Certified General classification. Certified General Appraisers (also known as commercial appraisers) can appraise all types of real property, without limit to purpose, complexity, or transaction value. Commercial appraisers tend to earn more money than home appraisers because they:
- Have more advanced skills and training
- Can accept a wider variety of assignments
- Charge higher fees for their work
Go to the “Certified General” tab at the top of this page to learn how to upgrade your license to become a Certified General Appraiser in the state of Rhode Island.
Helpful resources
Sources cited
- Appraiser (Residential Real Estate) Salary in Rhode Island (Salary.com)
- Appraiser Sr. (Residential Real Estate) Salary in Rhode Island (Salary.com)
- Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics: Property Appraisers and Assessors (US Bureau of Labor Statistics)
- Residential Real Estate Appraiser Salaries in Rhode Island (Glassdoor)
Rhode Island Appraiser License: Certified Residential
How to become a Certified Residential Appraiser in Rhode Island
In the state of Rhode Island, Certified Residential Appraisers (also called home appraisers) can appraise residential real property used for non-complex single or multi-family dwellings with 1–4 units having no minimum transaction value. They can also appraise complex residential properties having 1–4 units and a transaction value under $250,000.
To become a Certified Residential Appraiser in Rhode Island, you must:
- Complete 204 hours of appraisal qualifying education (includes trainee courses)
- Complete 1,500 hours of acceptable appraisal experience in no fewer than 12 months
- Pass the National Uniform Licensing and Certification Exam for Certified Residential Appraisers
- Meet one of the following college education requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university
- Associate degree from an accredited community college, college, or university in Business Administration, Accounting, Finance, Economics, or Real Estate
- 30 semester hours of college credit in specified topics
- 30 semester hours of College Level Examination Program (CLEP) examinations in specified topics
- Any combination of college credit or CLEP credit that includes all the specified topics
- Exception: No college education is required for Licensed Residential Appraisers who have been licensed for a minimum of 5 years and have been in good standing for the past 5 years.
Apply to sit for the AQB-approved national exam required to upgrade your credential to Certified Residential Appraiser by submitting the following items to the Board:
- Letter of intent (stating your intent to upgrade your existing credential)
- Education certificates of completion
- Appraiser Experience Log (signed by you and your supervisor)
Important: Verify all requirements with the Rhode Island licensing board. For more information, contact the Rhode Island Real Estate Appraisers Board at 401.462.9548.
Next steps after submitting your application
The Board will let you know via email which appraisal reports from your Experience Log should be submitted for review by a Board member. Once your reports are approved by the Board, they will then send you an approved examination card in the mail. Fees may apply.
Rhode Island Certified Residential Appraiser (204 hours) – AQB recommended course order
Online Info
Required Education:
204 Hours.
Basic Appraisal Principles – 30 hours.
Basic Appraisal Procedures – 30 hours.
National USPAP Course or Equivalent – 15 hours
Supervisor/Trainee Course for Rhode Island – 4 hours
Residential Market Analysis & Highest and Best Use – 15 hours.
Residential Appraiser Site Valuation and Cost Approach – 15 hours.
Residential Sales Comparison and Income Approaches – 30 hours.
Residential Report Writing and Case Studies – 15 hours.
Statistics, Modeling and Finance – 15 hours.
Advanced Residential Applications and Case Studies – 15 hours.
Appraisal Subject Matter Electives – 20 hours.
Experience: 2,500 hours of acceptable appraisal experience in not less than 24 months. 1,500 hours in no fewer than 12 months.
College Education: Must have a Bachelor’s degree or higher.
1) Bachelor’s Degree in any field of study;
2) Associate’s Degree in a focused field of study, such as business, economics, or real estate;
3) Successful completion of 30 college semester credit hours in specified topics;
4) Successful completion of College-Level Examination Program (CLEP)1 exams equivalent to a minimum of 30 semester credit hours in specified subject matter areas; or
5) Any combination of #3 and #4 above that includes all of the topics identified.
6) A LICENSED RESIDENTIAL appraiser who has been licensed for a minimum of 5 years and in good standing for at least 5 years with no disciplinary actions that would affect the individual’s ability to appraise may upgrade to CERTIFIED RESIDENTIAL without completing any college coursework.
Online Limitations
Roster
Governing Agency
FAQs about becoming a Certified Residential Appraiser in Rhode Island
How much do Certified Residential Appraisers make in Rhode Island?
The average salary range for upper-level residential real estate appraisers in Rhode Island falls between $74,301 and $108,024, according to Salary.com.1 Glassdoor gives a much higher number, estimating that Rhode Island home appraisers make $135,476 per year.2
Certified Residential Appraisers typically earn more than Licensed Appraisers since they are more skilled and experienced. They are permitted to perform complex appraisals, luxury home appraisals, and other assignments for which they can charge higher fees.
Do I need a degree to become a Certified Residential Appraiser in Rhode Island?
Not necessarily. If you have been a Licensed Appraiser in good standing for at least 5 years, you do not need any college education to upgrade to Certified Residential. Otherwise, you will need to have at least some college credits or CLEP exams. See above to learn about the different options for meeting the college education requirement for this certification.
What are the continuing education requirements for appraisers in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island appraisers must take and pass 28 continuing education (CE) hours every 24 months, including the 7-Hour National USPAP Update course and 21 hours of elective courses. All CE credit hours may be completed online.
Helpful resources
- Rhode Island Licensing Information
- Real Estate Appraiser Exam Prep
- Your Guide to an Appraisal License Upgrade
Sources cited
Rhode Island Appraiser License: Certified General
How to become a Certified General Appraiser in Rhode Island
A Rhode Island Certified General Appraiser (or commercial appraiser) can appraise all types of real property. This includes both residential and commercial properties—such as hotels, shopping malls, nursing homes, industrial facilities, farmland, and more.
To become a Certified General Appraiser in Rhode Island, you must:
- Complete 304 hours of appraisal qualifying education (includes trainee courses)
- Complete 3,000 hours of acceptable appraisal experience in no fewer than 18 months, including at least 1,500 hours in non-residential appraisal work
- Pass the National Uniform Licensing and Certification Exam for Certified General Appraisers
- Have a bachelor’s degree or higher in any field
Apply to sit for the AQB-approved national exam required to upgrade your credential to Certified General Appraiser by submitting the following items to the Board:
- Letter of intent (stating your intent to upgrade your existing credential)
- Education certificates of completion
- Appraiser Experience Log (signed by you and your supervisor)
Important: Verify all requirements with the Rhode Island licensing board. For more information, contact the Rhode Island Real Estate Appraisers Board at 401.462.9548.
Next steps after submitting your application
The Board will contact you via email to tell you which appraisal reports from your Experience Log should be submitted for review by a Board member. Once your reports are approved by the Board during a scheduled meeting, you will receive an approved examination card in the mail. Fees may apply.
Rhode Island Certified General Appraiser (304 hours) – AQB recommended course order
Online Info
Required Education:
304 Hours.
Basic Appraisal Principles – 30 hours.
Basic Appraisal Procedures – 30 hours.
National USPAP Course or Equivalent – 15 hours
Supervisor/Trainee Course for Rhode Island – 4 hours
General Appraiser Market Analysis & Highest and Best Use – 30 hours.
General Appraiser Site Valuation and Cost Approach – 30 hours.
General Appraiser Sales Comparison Approach – 30 hours.
General Appraiser Report Writing and Case Studies – 30 hours.
Statistics, Modeling and Finance – 15 hours.
General Appraiser Income Approach – 60 hours.
Appraisal Subject Matter Electives – 30 hours.
Experience: 3,000 hours of acceptable appraisal experience in no less than 18 months. A minimum of 1,500 hours of the required experience must be in non-residential appraisal work.
College Education: Must have a Bachelor’s degree or higher.
Online Limitations
Roster
Governing Agency
FAQs about becoming a commercial appraiser in Rhode Island
Do I need a degree to become a Certified General Appraiser in Rhode Island?
Yes. To attain the Certified General classification, you’ll need to have a bachelor’s degree or higher (in any field) from an accredited college or university.
How much do commercial appraisers make in Rhode Island?
According to Salary.com, the average salary for Rhode Island commercial real estate appraisers ranges from $47,047 to $142,938, depending on job level.1,2 Glassdoor estimates that commercial appraisers in Rhode Island make an average salary of $106,848 per year.3
A Certified General Appraiser’s annual earnings can vary greatly depending on their location, years of experience, number of hours worked per week, and specialty area (e.g., hospitality, commercial/industrial, agricultural).