How long does it take to become an appraiser?

The time it takes to become an appraiser in Illinois depends on your career goals and how quickly you complete your education and experience requirements. Many students can complete the required Trainee Appraiser qualifying education in just a few weeks or months using flexible online courses. After completing your coursework, you must apply for licensure through the state and begin working under a certified supervisory appraiser to gain experience hours. Advancing to a Certified Residential or Certified General Appraiser license typically takes one to two years, depending on how quickly you complete the required appraisal experience hours. In addition to meeting experience requirements, applicants must also pass the applicable Illinois appraisal licensing examination before achieving certified status. For more information about Illinois appraisal licensing exams, visit PSI Illinois Real Estate Appraiser Examination Information. Our flexible online appraisal courses allow you to complete your qualifying education on your schedule, from anywhere, so you can start your appraisal career with confidence and convenience.

Most students finish the 87-hour Trainee qualifying education in a few weeks to a few months with flexible online courses. From there, you submit your Appraiser Trainee application through TALCB's REALM Portal, complete a background check through the Texas Department of Public Safety, and start working under a supervisory appraiser to build experience hours. Advancing to Licensed Residential, Certified Residential, or Certified General typically takes one to two years depending on how fast you accumulate experience hours, plus passing the applicable state licensing exam; no exam is required at the Trainee level itself.