Real Estate Appraisal License License in California
Quick Answer
To become a licensed real estate appraiser in California, choose from four levels: Trainee (150 hrs education, no experience, $930), Residential (150 hrs, 1,000 hrs experience, $1,035), Certified Residential (200 hrs + college, 1,500 hrs experience, $1,110), or Certified General (300 hrs + Bachelor's, 3,000 hrs experience, $1,110). The exam fee is $85 (administered by AMP). Processing takes approximately 90 days. Renewal is every 2 years.
- Education Required
- 200 hours
- Exam
- AMP-administered AQB exam
- Total Cost
- $1,195 (est.)
- Timeline
- 90 days processing + experience time
- Renewal
- Every 2 years
Requirements
Real Estate Appraisal License license in California
Estimated Costs Est.
- Exam Fee
- $85
- Renewal Fee
- $1,030
- Total Estimated Cost
- $1,195
Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs for getting your Real Estate Appraisal License license in California. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.
Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program
Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the California licensing board.
How to Get Licensed
Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Real Estate Appraisal License in California.
- 1
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency.
- 2
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 90 days processing + experience time.
Real Estate Appraisal License Licensing in California: What to Know
California provides very detailed requirements. Four credential levels exist: Trainee ($930 license), Residential ($1,035 license), Certified Residential ($1,110 certificate), and Certified General ($1,110 certificate). Exam fee is $85 for all levels. Renewal fees: Trainee $850, Residential $955, Certified Residential/General $1,030. Education requirements: Trainee 150 hours, Residential 150 hours, Certified Residential 200 hours + AQB college education option, Certified General 300 hours + Bachelor's degree. Experience: Trainee none, Residential 1,000 hrs/6 months, Certified Residential 1,500 hrs/12 months, Certified General 3,000 hrs/18 months (1,500 non-residential). Renewal every 2 years with 56 hours CE per 4-year cycle including mandatory 7-hour USPAP update every 2 years. Two-year grace period available. Average processing time: 90 days. Exam administered by AMP.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a Real Estate Appraisal License license cost in California?
- The estimated total cost is $1,195, including application fees, exam fees ($85), and education costs.
- How long does it take to get a Real Estate Appraisal License license in California?
- The process typically takes 90 days processing + experience time, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a Real Estate Appraisal License license in California?
- You need to pass the AMP-administered AQB exam. N/A
Considering another state?
Compare Real Estate Appraisal License requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 15, 2026.