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Appraiser (Real Estate) License in California

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your Appraiser (Real Estate) license in CA. Covers fees, exams, documents, and renewal.

Application Fee

$300

Processing Time

4-6 Weeks

Exam Required

AQB National Exam

Difficulty Level

Medium

Step-by-Step: How to Get Licensed

Follow these 5 steps to obtain your Appraiser (Real Estate) license in California.

Step 1·Complete Education

Finish an approved Appraiser (Real Estate) training program in California.

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 5 required documents for your CA application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the AQB National Exam.

Step 4·Submit Application

File your application with the California licensing board and pay the $300 fee.

Step 5·Receive License

Processing takes 4-6 weeks in CA. Practice legally once approved.

How to Apply

If you are looking to start your career as a Appraiser (Real Estate) in California, the licensing process begins with education. CA mandates specific coursework before you can sit for the AQB National Exam. Upon passing the exam, you can proceed to file your application with the appropriate California regulatory board.

Requirements

California has specific requirements for Appraiser (Real Estate) licensure that applicants must fulfill. You must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid government-issued identification. Educational requirements include completing an accredited program relevant to determine the market value of real estate properties. A clean background check is mandatory in CA, and you must demonstrate good moral character. The AQB National Exam must be passed with a minimum score set by the California board.

Fees & Costs

Obtaining your Appraiser (Real Estate) license in California requires a financial investment. The base licensing fee in CA is $300, which includes application processing and credential verification. Exam registration fees are separate and vary by testing center. Budget for approximately $450 total when accounting for all associated costs in California.

License Fee Calculator — Appraiser (Real Estate) in California

Base License Fee$300
Estimated Total$300

Renewal Process

Maintaining your Appraiser (Real Estate) license in California requires timely renewal every 2 years. CA sets the renewal fee at $200. You must complete all required continuing education hours and submit proof to the California board. Failure to renew on time may result in license suspension and reinstatement fees in CA.

License Expiry Calculator — Appraiser (Real Estate) in CA

Enter your license issue date to see when renewal is due. California requires renewal every 2 years.

Additional Information

Working as a Appraiser (Real Estate) in California offers numerous opportunities for career growth and professional development. CA has a robust job market for licensed professionals in this field. The state board actively works to streamline the licensing process while maintaining rigorous standards. California also participates in interstate licensing compacts, which may facilitate practice across state lines for qualified Appraiser (Real Estate) professionals.

Document Checklist — Appraiser (Real Estate)

0 of 5 documents ready

Frequently Asked Questions

License Reciprocity: Can I Use My California Appraiser (Real Estate) License in Other States?

Reciprocity varies by state. Always verify with the destination state's licensing board before practicing.

Destination StateReciprocityNotes
Alaska (AK) NoneAK does not recognize CA Appraiser (Real Estate) license. Full re-application required.
Alabama (AL) PartialAL requires additional exam or paperwork for CA license holders.
Arizona (AZ) NoneAZ does not recognize CA Appraiser (Real Estate) license. Full re-application required.
Arkansas (AR) PartialAR requires additional exam or paperwork for CA license holders.
Colorado (CO) FullCO accepts CA Appraiser (Real Estate) license via reciprocity agreement.
Delaware (DE) FullDE accepts CA Appraiser (Real Estate) license via reciprocity agreement.
Florida (FL) PartialFL requires additional exam or paperwork for CA license holders.
Iowa (IA) PartialIA requires additional exam or paperwork for CA license holders.

Where to File Locally in California

Visit a licensing department office near you for in-person assistance.

Sacramento

1625 N Market Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95834

(916) 574-7170

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Los Angeles

320 W 4th St, Los Angeles, CA 90013

(213) 897-3722

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

San Francisco

455 Golden Gate Ave, San Francisco, CA 94102

(415) 557-3261

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

San Diego

1350 Front St, San Diego, CA 92101

(619) 525-4235

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

San Jose

100 Paseo De San Antonio, San Jose, CA 95113

(408) 277-4102

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Official California Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the California state board. Regulations may change.

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Disclaimer

US License Guide is a private informational resource and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to any federal, state, or local government agency. The information provided on this website is for general guidance purposes only and should not be considered legal or professional advice. Licensing requirements, fees, and procedures may change without notice. Always verify current requirements directly with your state's official licensing board before making any decisions. Use of this site does not create any professional-client relationship.