Become an Appraiser

The Ins and Outs of Becoming an Appraiser

Are you ready to become an appraiser? The four levels of appraisal licensing are outlined below.

Requirements vary in each state, so be sure to refer to the requirements in the state where you plan to earn your license. Each state usually has three primary requirements that include education, experience and a state exam.

A few quick definitions before you dig in:

A one-to-four residential unit includes single family homes and buildings with up to four dwellings.

A complex unit has ownership or market conditions that are atypical – for example, a property where the ownership is split among multiple unrelated parties.

Non-complex units encompass everything else.

Trainee Real Property Appraiser

An appraiser trainee works under the direct supervision of a certified appraiser and can appraise the same properties as the supervising appraiser.

Learn About Becoming a Trainee Real Property Appraiser

Licensed Residential Real Property Appraiser

A licensed residential appraiser can appraise one-to-four (non-complex) residential units with a transactional value less than $1 million, and one-to-four (complex) residential units with a transactional value less than $400,000.

Learn About Becoming a Licensed Residential Real Property Appraiser

Certified Residential Real Property Appraiser

A certified residential appraiser can appraise one-to-four residential units regardless of value or complexity.

Learn About Becoming a Certified Residential Real Property Appraiser

Certified General Real Property Appraiser

A certified general appraiser can appraise all types of real property.

Learn About Becoming a Certified General Real Property Appraiser

Scholarship Opportunities

We’re here to help you reach your goals. The Appraisal Institute provides various scholarships through programs and initiatives spearheaded by generous valuation professionals and industry partners.

Our scholarships reward achievement, encourage leadership and provide financial assistance and education opportunities.

AIERF Scholarships

Established in 2018, the Appraisal Institute Education & Relief Foundation (AIERF) offers several scholarships for AI Candidates for Designation and Practicing Affiliates, as well as undergraduate and graduate students pursuing degrees in the real estate field.

Learn More About AIERF Scholarships

ADI Scholarships

Working through the National Urban League's regional Entrepreneurship Centers, the Appraiser Diversity Initiative (ADI) seeks diverse, talented candidates to educate them about the valuation profession and help them find a path to success.