The short answer to this question is “Yes.” In nearly every state, you must become a trainee appraiser and complete specific requirements before taking the National Uniform Licensing and Certification Exam to become a Licensed or Certified Residential Appraiser.
How do I become a trainee appraiser?
Depending on your state, a trainee appraiser may be referred to as an apprentice appraiser or as a registered, provisional, or limited appraiser, and there are different requirements to become one. However, the Appraisal Qualifying Board recommends the following minimum requirements:
- 75 hours of pre-licensing courses, including Basic Appraisal Principles (30 hours), National USPAP Course (15 hours), and Basic Appraisal Procedures (30 hours)
- Working with a supervisory appraiser who is a Certified Residential or Certified General Appraiser and is approved to supervise a trainee
- Applying and receiving the state’s trainee license (which may also be called a permit in your state)
Once you have your real estate appraiser trainee license, you can then complete additional qualifying education and hands-on, supervised experience. Find your state’s requirements below to get a more specific path to becoming a Licensed or Certified Residential Appraiser.
Get a free guide to becoming a real estate appraiser
In our free guide, Is an Appraisal Career Right for You?, you’ll get an in-depth look at the job market, the steps you need to take to become an appraiser and learn if this career path is right for you.
