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 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Real Estate Appraiser in California
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
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 baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
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 6-24 months.
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 regionLicense 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 | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arizona | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
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 | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $96,360 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $118,450 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $128,650 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Real Estate Appraiser in California?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, 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. License status indicator: Active. 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/.