Pass the Trainee / Licensed / Certified Appraiser Exam.

What is the real estate appraisal exam?

Real estate appraiser exams are administered at the state level by real estate regulatory agencies. There are several credential levels: Trainee Appraiser (no exam required in most states), Licensed Residential Appraiser, Certified Residential Appraiser, and Certified General Appraiser. Each level above trainee requires passing a state exam 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 and updated every two years. 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?

The path to a Licensed Residential Appraiser typically takes 18–24 months. You must first complete 75 hours of pre-licensing education, work as a trainee under a certified supervisor, accumulate 1,000 hours of experience over at least 6 months, and pass the state licensing exam. The Certified Residential level requires 1,500 hours over 12 months and additional education hours.