Application Fee
See agencyVerified by CA Board of Business
Real Estate Appraiser Licensing in California
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for real estate appraiser in California, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Real Estate Appraiser in California
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Varies by state board.
- 2
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Exam and processing details
- State-approved exam
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Property Tax Department • County-Assessed Properties Division • State Board of Equalization
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$91,400 median (40% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#1 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet California eligibility requirements for Real Estate Appraiser licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training (Education: Varies by state board.).
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State-approved exam.
- 4. Submit the application to Property Tax Department~County-Assessed Properties Division~State Board of Equalization and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in California
With a median salary of $91,400, Real Estate Appraisers in California earn 40% above the national median of $65,420. California ranks #1 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,758Median annual salary
$91,400Hourly estimate
$43.9440% above national median
Difference: +$25,980
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationReal Estate Appraiser Salary Ranking
#1 of 50 statesfor Real Estate Appraiser median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | $91,400 |
| #2 | New Jersey | $89,890 |
| #3 | Massachusetts | $87,280 |
| #4 | Connecticut | $84,100 |
| #5 | Alaska | $81,540 |
Nearby States Comparison
Real Estate Appraiser licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $91,400 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Oregon | $66,120 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Nevada | $52,000 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Arizona | $60,050 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Nevada | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Arizona | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Property Tax Department • County-Assessed Properties Division • State Board of Equalization
P. O. Box 942879, MIC 64, Sacramento, CA, 94279-0064
Phone: 9162743350
Related Careers in California
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $105,840 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Audio and Video Technicians | $62,240 | Varies by state board | 1-17 years |
| Certified Public Accountant | $96,360 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Civil Engineer | $118,450 | Varies by state board | 1-17 years |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Real Estate Appraiser in California?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical Real Estate Appraiser salary in California?
The median annual salary for Real Estate Appraisers in California is $91,400. Salaries range from $52,150 (10th percentile) to $136,150 (90th percentile).
How does the Real Estate Appraiser salary in California compare to the national average?
Real Estate Appraisers in California earn 40% above the national median of $65,420, with a state median of $91,400.
How many Real Estate Appraisers work in California?
California employs approximately 5,660 Real Estate Appraisers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Real Estate Appraiser license to California from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Real Estate Appraisers in California?
The licensing agency is Property Tax Department / County-Assessed Properties Division / State Board of Equalization. Review agency details at http://www.boe.ca.gov/.
How often do you renew a Real Estate Appraiser license in California?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.