Pass the Trainee / Licensed / Certified Appraiser Exam.

What is the real estate appraisal exam?

Appraiser credentials are issued by state appraiser boards, but the exam itself is the National Uniform Licensing and Certification Examination developed by the Appraiser Qualifications Board (AQB) and delivered by state-approved testing vendors. There are several credential levels: Trainee Appraiser (the AQB criteria set no exam for trainees), Licensed Residential Appraiser, Certified Residential Appraiser, and Certified General Appraiser. Each level above trainee requires passing the AQB-approved exam for that level, covering USPAP, the three approaches to value, and market analysis.

What is USPAP and why is it important?

USPAP (Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice) is the nationally recognized ethical and performance standard for real estate appraisers. It is published by The Appraisal Foundation. USPAP is heavily tested on all appraiser licensing exams — understanding its standards, ethics rules, record-keeping requirements, and competency rule is essential to passing.

How long does it take to become a licensed appraiser?

Under the AQB criteria effective January 1, 2026, a Licensed Residential Appraiser needs 158 hours of qualifying education, 1,000 hours of experience obtained in no fewer than 6 months (typically as a trainee under a certified supervisor), and a passing result on the Licensed Residential exam. The Certified Residential level requires 200 education hours, 1,500 hours of experience over no fewer than 12 months, and a bachelor’s degree or an AQB alternative. States can add requirements, so check your state board.