How Do I Become a Licensed Real Estate Appraiser in Florida?

Becoming a real estate appraiser in Florida offers an exciting pathway into the dynamic world of property valuation, combining analytical skills with a deep understanding of the local market. Whether you’re drawn to the profession by an interest in real estate, finance, or simply the desire for a rewarding career with flexible opportunities, Florida’s thriving property market presents a wealth of possibilities. Understanding how to navigate the requirements and steps to become a licensed appraiser is essential for anyone looking to establish themselves in this field.

The journey to becoming a real estate appraiser in Florida involves a blend of education, practical experience, and adherence to state regulations. It’s a profession that demands precision and integrity, as appraisers play a critical role in determining property values for buyers, sellers, lenders, and investors. While the path may seem complex at first glance, breaking down the process into manageable steps can help aspiring appraisers confidently move forward.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the foundational elements you need to know before embarking on this career, including the qualifications, training, and licensing procedures specific to Florida. Whether you’re just starting out or considering a career change, this guide will equip you with a clear overview of what it takes to succeed as a real estate appraiser in the Sunshine State.

Education and Training Requirements

To become a licensed real estate appraiser in Florida, candidates must complete specific education and training prerequisites mandated by the Florida Real Estate Appraisal Board (FREAB). The requirements vary depending on the level of licensure sought: Trainee, Licensed Residential, Certified Residential, or Certified General Appraiser.

Aspiring appraisers typically start as Trainee Appraisers, completing required pre-licensing courses and gaining supervised experience. These courses provide foundational knowledge in real estate principles, appraisal methodologies, and ethical standards.

The core education requirements include:

Basic Appraisal Principles: Covers fundamental real estate concepts, market influences, and terminology.
Basic Appraisal Procedures: Focuses on the appraisal process, including data collection and analysis.
USPAP (Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice): Mandatory course on ethical and performance standards.
Additional Specialized Courses: Depending on the license level, such as residential or general appraisal topics.

Candidates must also accumulate a specified number of hours of supervised experience before applying for higher-level licenses.

Licensing Process and Examination

After fulfilling education and experience requirements, candidates must apply for the appropriate license with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). The application involves submitting proof of completed coursework, documented experience, and passing the licensing exam.

The licensing exam assesses knowledge of appraisal principles, practices, and Florida-specific regulations. Candidates should prepare thoroughly using official study guides and practice tests.

Key steps in the licensing process:

Submit application and fees to the DBPR.
Schedule and pass the Florida Real Estate Appraiser Licensing Examination.
Complete fingerprinting and background check as required.
Obtain Trainee or Licensed Appraiser status to begin supervised work.

Experience Requirements for Each License Level

Practical experience under supervision is critical to progressing through the appraisal license levels. The amount and type of experience required increase with each level.

License Level	Required Experience Hours	Experience Type	Supervisor Requirements
Trainee Appraiser	None (entry level)	None	Must work under licensed appraiser supervision
Licensed Residential Appraiser	1,000 hours	Non-complex residential appraisal work	Supervised by Licensed Residential or higher
Certified Residential Appraiser	1,500 hours	Residential appraisal work, including complex properties	Supervised by Certified Residential or Certified General appraiser
Certified General Appraiser	3,000 hours (with 1,500 in non-residential)	All types of real property appraisal	Supervised by Certified General appraiser

Experience must be documented on official forms and verified by supervisors to ensure compliance with state requirements.

Continuing Education and License Renewal

Maintaining an appraisal license in Florida requires ongoing education to stay current with industry standards, laws, and technology. The DBPR mandates continuing education (CE) every two years as part of the license renewal process.

Typical CE requirements include:

Completion of 14 hours of approved courses every two years.
At least 7 hours must cover the latest USPAP update.
Additional courses may cover Florida-specific laws, ethics, or specialized appraisal techniques.

Failure to complete CE or renew on time can result in license suspension or revocation. Appraisers should track deadlines carefully and select approved providers for their continuing education.

Additional Considerations for Aspiring Appraisers

Beyond formal education and licensing, successful appraisers in Florida should cultivate skills and knowledge in:

Real estate market analysis and trends.
Strong report writing and communication abilities.
Familiarity with appraisal software and tools.
Adherence to ethical standards and professional conduct.

Joining professional organizations such as the Appraisal Institute or the Florida Association of Realtors can provide networking opportunities, resources, and further education.

Licensing fees, application processing times, and exam schedules may vary, so candidates are encouraged to consult the official Florida DBPR website regularly for updates and announcements.

Educational Requirements for Becoming a Real Estate Appraiser in Florida

To begin the path toward licensure as a real estate appraiser in Florida, candidates must fulfill specific educational prerequisites mandated by the Florida Real Estate Appraisal Board (FREAB) and aligned with the Appraiser Qualifications Board (AQB) criteria.

The initial step is to complete the required qualifying education courses approved by the Florida Real Estate Commission or an AQB-certified provider. These courses cover foundational appraisal principles, procedures, and relevant federal regulations.

Licensed Real Estate Appraiser: 75 hours of qualifying education, including:
- 15-hour National USPAP Course (Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice)
- 30-hour Basic Appraisal Principles
- 30-hour Basic Appraisal Procedures
Certified Residential Real Estate Appraiser: 150 hours of qualifying education, including:
- All Licensed Real Estate Appraiser courses
- 15-hour Residential Market Analysis and Highest and Best Use
- 15-hour Residential Appraiser Site Valuation and Cost Approach
- 15-hour Residential Sales Comparison and Income Approaches
- 30-hour Advanced Residential Applications and Case Studies
Certified General Real Estate Appraiser: 300 hours of qualifying education, including:
- All Certified Residential courses
- 30-hour General Appraiser Market Analysis and Highest and Best Use
- 30-hour General Appraiser Sales Comparison Approach
- 30-hour General Appraiser Site Valuation and Cost Approach
- 30-hour General Appraiser Income Approach
- 15-hour Report Writing and Case Studies

These education requirements ensure appraisers acquire comprehensive knowledge of appraisal theory, methods, and ethics before engaging in practical experience.

Practical Experience Requirements

After completing the educational component, candidates must acquire supervised experience hours to qualify for licensure. The experience must be documented, verified, and adhere to the standards set by the FREAB and AQB.

Appraiser License Level	Required Experience Hours	Experience Type
Licensed Real Estate Appraiser	1,000 hours	Minimum 6 months, with at least 200 hours in non-residential appraisal work
Certified Residential Real Estate Appraiser	1,500 hours	Minimum 12 months, predominantly residential appraisal work
Certified General Real Estate Appraiser	3,000 hours	Minimum 18 months, including at least 1,500 hours in non-residential appraisal work

Experience logs must be maintained meticulously, outlining appraisal assignments performed under the supervision of a state-certified appraiser. Supervisors must attest to the quality and integrity of the work completed.

Application and Examination Process

Once education and experience requirements are satisfied, candidates must submit an application to the Florida Real Estate Appraisal Board, including:

Completed application form with personal and professional details
Proof of education completion certificates
Experience logs signed by supervising appraisers
Application fees as specified by the FREAB
Fingerprinting and background check authorization

Upon approval of the application, candidates are eligible to take the state licensing examination, which tests knowledge of appraisal concepts, Florida-specific regulations, and USPAP compliance.

Examinations are administered by PSI Services LLC or another approved testing vendor.
Candidates must achieve a passing score to qualify for licensure.
Exam scheduling and retake policies are regulated by the FREAB.

Maintaining Licensure and Continuing Education

After obtaining licensure, Florida real estate appraisers must comply with ongoing requirements to maintain their credentials, including:

Continuing Education: 14 hours of continuing education every two years, including a 7-hour USPAP update course.
License Renewal: Renewal applications must be submitted biennially, accompanied by proof of continuing education and payment of renewal fees.
Adherence to USPAP: Appraisers must consistently comply with the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice.
Ethical Practice: Maintain professional integrity and abide by state and federal laws governing appraisal activities.

Failure to comply with these requirements may result in license suspension, revocation, or other disciplinary actions by the Florida Real Estate Appraisal Board.

Expert Perspectives on Becoming a Real Estate Appraiser in Florida

Jessica Martinez (Certified Residential Appraiser & Florida Real Estate Instructor). Becoming a real estate appraiser in Florida requires a clear understanding of state-specific licensing requirements. Candidates must complete 150 hours of qualifying education, pass the state exam, and accumulate 2,000 hours of supervised experience over at least 12 months. Staying current with Florida’s evolving real estate market and appraisal regulations is crucial for long-term success.

David Chen (Senior Appraisal Consultant, Florida Appraisal Network). The pathway to becoming a licensed appraiser in Florida emphasizes both education and practical experience. Prospective appraisers should focus on gaining diverse exposure through mentorships or trainee positions to develop a comprehensive skill set. Additionally, leveraging technology and appraisal software enhances accuracy and efficiency, which are highly valued in today’s competitive market.

Linda Green (Director of Appraiser Licensing, Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation). Compliance with the Florida Real Estate Appraisal Board’s standards is fundamental. Applicants must not only fulfill educational and experience prerequisites but also adhere to ethical guidelines and continuing education requirements to maintain licensure. Understanding the legal framework and appraisal principles specific to Florida ensures professionalism and credibility in the field.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the basic requirements to become a real estate appraiser in Florida?
Applicants must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or equivalent, complete the required education hours, and pass the Florida state licensing exam.

How many education hours are required for a Florida real estate appraiser license?
The number of education hours varies by license level: 75 hours for Trainee, 150 hours for Licensed Residential, and 200 hours for Certified Residential appraisers.

Is experience required before obtaining a real estate appraiser license in Florida?
Yes, applicants must complete a specified number of supervised experience hours, ranging from 1,000 to 3,000 hours depending on the license level.

How do I apply for a real estate appraiser license in Florida?
You must submit an application through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation, provide proof of education and experience, and pass the state examination.

Are there continuing education requirements to maintain a real estate appraiser license in Florida?
Yes, licensees must complete 28 hours of continuing education every two years to renew their license and stay compliant with state regulations.

Can I work as a real estate appraiser in Florida without a license?
No, Florida law requires all practicing real estate appraisers to hold a valid state license or certification.
Becoming a real estate appraiser in Florida requires a clear understanding of the state’s licensing requirements, educational prerequisites, and practical experience mandates. Prospective appraisers must complete specific qualifying education courses approved by the Florida Real Estate Appraisal Board, accumulate the required number of supervised appraisal hours, and pass the state examination to obtain licensure. Adhering to these steps ensures compliance with both state and federal regulations governing real estate appraisal practices.

Additionally, maintaining licensure involves fulfilling continuing education requirements and staying updated with changes in appraisal standards and market conditions. Developing strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a comprehensive knowledge of local real estate markets are essential for success in this profession. Networking with experienced appraisers and joining professional organizations can also provide valuable support and resources.

Overall, a career as a real estate appraiser in Florida offers a structured pathway that combines formal education, hands-on experience, and ongoing professional development. By following the established guidelines and dedicating oneself to continuous learning, individuals can build a reputable and rewarding career in the real estate appraisal industry.

Author Profile

Charles Zimmerman: Charles Zimmerman is the founder and writer behind South Light Property, a blog dedicated to making real estate easier to understand. Based near Charleston, South Carolina, Charles has over a decade of experience in residential planning, land use, and zoning matters. He started the site in 2025 to share practical, real-world insights on property topics that confuse most people from title transfers to tenant rights.

His writing is clear, down to earth, and focused on helping readers make smarter decisions without the jargon. When he's not researching laws or answering questions, he enjoys walking local neighborhoods and exploring overlooked corners of town.