State-Licensed Appraiser

• Becoming a certified appraiser requires you to gain increasing knowledge and skill levels. Trainees enter the profession after completing 75 hours of appraisal classwork. Trainees can work on appraisals under the direct supervision of a certified appraiser for a minimum of one year. They must gain 2,000 hours of experience and complete another 75 hours of appraisal education before they can test for a state license. State-licensed appraisers can practice independently, but they are limited in the scope of assignments they may accept. Licensed appraisers may appraise residential homes under $1 million in value or complex appraisal assignments under $250,000 in value.
  
  

Certified Residential Appraiser

• To become a certified residential appraiser, candidates must earn at least an associate degree. If they lack the degree, candidates must take a minimum of 21 hours of classes covering subjects outlined by the Appraisal Foundation. In addition, licensed appraisers must gain 2,500 hours of field experience over a minimum two-year period. The certified residential credential requires 200 hours of education in appraisal principles and procedures. Once they receive the certified residential appraiser credential, appraisers can appraise any residential property without restriction.
  
  

Certified General Appraiser

• Candidates for the certified general credential must earn a bachelor's degree or higher. They must log 3,000 hours of appraisal experience over a minimum 30 months. At least 1,500 hours of logged experience must be in commercial appraisals. Candidates complete a minimum of 300 hours in appraisal education. Once an appraiser earns the certified general appraiser certificate, he may accept any appraisal assignment. Both the residential certification and the certified general appraiser credential allow an appraiser to mentor an appraisal trainee.
  
  

Professional Designations

• Appraisers can pursue professional designations through an appraisal trade organization. Each appraisal organization offers a number of designations that require additional study and comprehensive testing. Designations help an appraiser show a higher level of education or experience, enhancing their visibility and desirability in their profession. Appraisal associations help appraisers to continually hone their analysis and valuation skills. By networking with other appraisal professionals, appraisers can continue to develop their professionalism and progress within the industry.