How to Become a Real Estate Appraiser in Idaho (2026)
Idaho's booming Treasure Valley -- one of America's fastest-growing regions -- is driving strong demand for licensed appraisers. Boise's surging home values ($450K+ median), Coeur d'Alene's luxury lake market, and Idaho's diverse agricultural and resort properties create year-round appraisal volume. Biennial license renewal since July 2025.
Trainee Education
From $1,079
Time to Licensed Res.
7 -- 18 months
Idaho Appraiser Salary
$57K -- $87K
Exam Fee
$225 (Pearson VUE)
Idaho Appraisers Are Regulated by the Idaho Real Estate Appraiser Board (DOPL)
The Idaho Real Estate Appraiser Board operates under the Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses (DOPL) and issues four AQB-compliant credential levels. As of July 1, 2025, Idaho switched to biennial (2-year) license renewal for licensed and certified appraisers -- 28 hours of CE every 24 months. Trainee registrations and AMC licenses remain annual. Exam: Pearson VUE ($225). Apply at dopl.idaho.gov/rea/.
Biennial renewal change: As of July 1, 2025, Idaho licensed and certified appraiser licenses renew every 2 years. Trainee registrations remain on an annual cycle. Confirm your renewal date and cycle with Idaho DOPL.
Top Idaho Appraiser Schools at a Glance
Idaho appraisal education is available from three major AQB-approved providers. McKissock Learning covers all four credential levels and is the only Idaho provider offering Certified General coursework. Champions School offers live virtual classroom training through Certified Residential. The CE Shop provides a strong Trainee-level package. All prices below are browser-verified as of March 2026.
1. McKissock LearningFull Service
The only Idaho provider covering all four credential levels -- Trainee, Licensed Residential, Certified Residential, and Certified General. Self-paced online with a Summer 2026 Sat/Sun Livestream option. Idaho Trainee packages are 83 hours (McKissock does not include the 4-hr Supervisor/Trainee course; take it separately with your supervisor). Rated 4.6 stars from 46,224 reviews.
From $1,079
ID Trainee Basic Package (83 hrs)
2. Champions School of Real EstateLive Virtual
Live virtual classroom (ChampionsLive / Zoom) for structured learners who prefer scheduled sessions. Idaho DOPL provider #8072-AQP. Covers Trainee through Certified Residential -- bundled programs available for the full path from Trainee to CR. Does not offer Certified General for Idaho.
From $1,100
87-Hr Idaho Trainee Program
3. The CE ShopTop-Rated UX
Modern, mobile-friendly platform with live-online USPAP and included proctored exam. Idaho Trainee package is 87 hours including the 4-hr Supervisor/Trainee course, 8-hr Valuation Bias & Fair Housing, and USPAP manuals. Trainee-level only for Idaho -- no upgrade packages available.
From $1,205
ID Trainee Standard Package (87 hrs)
Best Idaho Appraiser Licensing Courses
All 3 schools are Idaho Idaho DOPL-approved. Price: Low to High.
Quick Price Comparison (Course Only)
McKissock Learning
Full ServiceStarting at
$1079
- Only Idaho provider covering all 4 credential levels including Certified General
- AQB-approved courses accepted by Idaho DOPL at all levels
- Livestream option: Summer 2026 Sat/Sun schedule available ($1,997)
- Subscription packages include 1-year access and CE bundles
- Rating: 4.6 stars from 46,224 verified reviews
Available Packages (10)
ID Trainee Basic Package (83 hrs)
- Basic Appraisal Principles (30 hrs)
- Basic Appraisal Procedures (30 hrs)
- 15-Hour National USPAP Course
- 8-Hour Valuation Bias & Fair Housing
- 6-month course access
- Does not include 4-hr Supervisor/Trainee course (take with supervisor)
Champions School of Real Estate
Live VirtualStarting at
$1100
- Live virtual classroom format via ChampionsLive (Zoom) -- ideal for structured learners
- Idaho DOPL-approved provider (#8072-AQP)
- Covers Trainee through Certified Residential -- 3 credential levels
- Bundled programs available (Trainee through CR in one purchase)
- Does not offer Certified General for Idaho
Available Packages (4)
87-Hr Idaho Appraiser Supervisor Trainee Program
- Basic Appraisal Principles (30 hrs)
- Basic Appraisal Procedures (30 hrs)
- 15-Hr National USPAP Course
- 8-Hr Valuation Bias & Fair Housing
- 4-Hr AQB Supervisor/Trainee Course
- Virtual classroom format (Zoom)
- Idaho DOPL-approved -- provider #8072-AQP
The CE Shop
Top-Rated UXStarting at
$1205
- Modern mobile-friendly online platform with intuitive UX
- Live-online USPAP course and proctored exam included in Trainee package
- Includes USPAP manuals and 8-hr Valuation Bias & Fair Housing (2026 requirement)
- Trainee-level packages only for Idaho; no upgrade packages available
- AQB-approved courses accepted by Idaho DOPL
Available Packages (1)
ID Trainee Standard Package (87 hrs)
- Basic Appraisal Principles (30 hrs)
- Basic Appraisal Procedures (30 hrs)
- 4-Hr AQB Supervisor/Trainee Course
- 15-Hr National USPAP Live-Online Course
- 8-Hr Valuation Bias & Fair Housing Laws and Regulations
- USPAP manuals included
- Proctored online exam included
Prices verified March 2026. Prices may change. Always confirm current pricing on the school's website before enrolling.
What Is an Idaho Appraiser License?
An Idaho appraiser license is issued by the Idaho Real Estate Appraiser Board (DOPL) and is required to perform real property appraisals for federally related mortgage transactions. Idaho offers four AQB-compliant credential levels. The entry credential -- Registered Appraiser Trainee -- requires 87 hours of qualifying education, no prior experience, and no exam. As of July 1, 2025, Idaho licensed and certified appraiser licenses renew biennially (every 2 years) with 28 hours of CE. Idaho sets slightly higher education standards than AQB minimums: 208 hours for Certified Residential (AQB minimum: 200) and 308 hours for Certified General (AQB minimum: 300).
Registered Trainee Appraiser
87 hrs
Under Certified Supervisor -- cannot sign reports independently
Licensed Residential Appraiser
75-hr upgrade (158 total)
Non-complex 1-4 unit residential properties
Certified Residential Appraiser
50-hr upgrade (208 total)
All 1-4 unit residential -- no value or complexity limit
Certified General Appraiser
225-hr upgrade (308 total)
Commercial, industrial, all property types -- no restrictions
Idaho Appraiser Credential Levels (2026)
| Credential | QE Hours | Experience | Degree | Renewal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Registered Trainee Appraiser Entry level -- no exam required | 87 hrs (incl. 15-hr USPAP + 8-hr Valuation Bias) | None (under supervisor) | None | |
Licensed Residential Appraiser First independent credential | 75-hr upgrade (158 total) (above AQB 150-hr min.) | 1,000 hrs / min. 6 months | None | |
Certified Residential Appraiser All residential -- no restrictions | 50-hr upgrade (208 total) (Idaho: 208 hrs -- above AQB 200) | 1,500 hrs / min. 12 months | Bachelor's, Associate's, 30 credit hrs, or 5 yrs Licensed | |
Certified General Appraiser All property types -- highest earnings | 225-hr upgrade (308 total) (Idaho: 308 hrs -- above AQB 300) | 3,000 hrs / 18 mo (1,500 non-res) | Bachelor's required (no alternatives) |
* Exam (Pearson VUE NULCE) required for Licensed, Certified Residential, and Certified General. Trainee is exam-exempt. Application fees: $250 Trainee, $300 Licensed/Certified. Source: Idaho DOPL / AQB, 2026 (effective Jan 1, 2026). Biennial renewal applies to Licensed and Certified levels (July 1, 2025). Trainee registrations remain annual.
How Much Do Idaho Appraisers Earn?
Entry (Trainee / Licensed)
$38K -- $55K
Working under supervisor or newly independent
Licensed / Cert. Residential
$55K -- $75K
Idaho state average; Indeed reports ~$57,635
Boise CG / Senior Appraiser
$87K -- $130K+
Certified General; commercial focus; ZipRecruiter est. $86,348
Typical Residential Fee
$350 -- $650
Per residential appraisal in Idaho
Idaho Median Home Price
~$454,300
Zillow / Norada Real Estate (Idaho, 2024-2025)
Top Idaho Appraisal Markets
Income Disclaimer: Salary figures are estimates based on publicly available data and vary significantly by state, market, experience level, employer type, and individual effort. Past or average earnings are not a guarantee of future results. CertLaunch makes no income guarantees of any kind.
Sources:
Licensing requirements, exam fees, and course availability change frequently. Always verify current requirements with your state licensing board before enrolling or submitting any application. Learn how we source our data.
Is a Idaho Appraiser License Worth It?
👠Pros
- +Booming Treasure Valley Market: Boise, Meridian, Nampa, and Caldwell are among the fastest-growing cities in the U.S. -- Idaho's surging population and $450K+ median home values drive consistent, high-volume residential appraisal demand.
- +Coeur d'Alene Luxury Premium: North Idaho's lakefront and resort properties command premium appraisal fees. Coeur d'Alene and the surrounding Panhandle region offer a strong niche for appraisers specializing in high-value and complex residential properties.
- +Diverse Property Specializations: Idaho offers a unique mix -- Treasure Valley urban/suburban residential, Panhandle luxury lake properties, eastern Idaho agricultural land, ski resort properties near Sun Valley. Certified General Appraisers can build high-value commercial niches.
- +Biennial Renewal -- Less Admin Overhead: Since July 1, 2025, Idaho licensed and certified appraisers renew every 2 years instead of annually. This reduces administrative overhead and renewal costs compared to annual-renewal states.
👎 Cons
- -Rural Supervisor Shortage: Outside the Boise metro and Coeur d'Alene, finding a qualified supervisory appraiser can be very difficult. Idaho limits supervisors to 3 trainees -- rural areas like Twin Falls and Pocatello have limited supervisor availability, which is the single biggest bottleneck for new trainees.
- -Higher Education Standards Than AQB Minimums: Idaho requires 208 hours for Certified Residential (vs. AQB minimum of 200) and 308 hours for Certified General (vs. AQB minimum of 300). This means slightly more coursework and cost compared to states that follow AQB minimums exactly.
- -Smaller Market Than Major Metro States: Idaho's total appraiser workforce and transaction volume are smaller than states like California, Texas, or Florida -- limiting the number of available supervisory relationships and AMC partnerships, especially outside the Boise market.
- -Application Fee Confirmed -- Plan Accordingly: Idaho charges $250 for Trainee registration and $300 for Licensed/Certified application fees, plus a $33.25 fingerprinting fee. The $225 Pearson VUE exam fee adds to upfront costs -- budget $500-$600 in government and exam fees alone.
How to Become a Licensed Appraiser in Idaho
Complete Trainee Qualifying Education (87 Hours)
Enroll in and complete 87 hours of AQB-approved qualifying education: 30 hrs Basic Appraisal Principles, 30 hrs Basic Appraisal Procedures, 15 hrs National USPAP, 8 hrs Valuation Bias & Fair Housing (effective Jan 1, 2026), and the 4-hr AQB Supervisor/Trainee Course. Online providers McKissock Learning ($1,079), Champions School ($1,100), and The CE Shop ($1,205) all offer Idaho DOPL-accepted packages. Note: McKissock's 83-hr package omits the 4-hr Supervisor/Trainee course -- you'll complete that jointly with your supervisor.
Find a Supervisory Appraiser and Register as Trainee
Secure a Certified Appraiser to serve as your supervisory appraiser. In Idaho, a supervisor must have been in good standing for at least 3 years with no disciplinary history, and can supervise up to 3 trainees at once. Search the DOPL appraiser database at apps.dopl.idaho.gov to find certified appraisers in your area. Both you and your supervisor must complete the 4-hr AQB Supervisor/Trainee Course before your supervised experience begins. Submit your Registered Appraiser Trainee application to Idaho DOPL with the $250 fee plus $33.25 fingerprinting fee.
Complete Additional Qualifying Education for Your Target Credential
As you accumulate experience, complete the remaining QE for your target level: 158 total hrs for Licensed Residential (75-hr upgrade), 208 total hrs for Certified Residential (50-hr upgrade from Licensed), or 308 total hrs for Certified General (225-hr upgrade from Trainee). McKissock offers all upgrade packages online. These can be completed while you accumulate supervised experience hours in parallel -- no need to finish education before starting supervision.
Accumulate Supervised Experience Hours
Work under your supervisory appraiser to gain required experience: 1,000 hours over at least 6 months for Licensed Residential; 1,500 hours over at least 12 months for Certified Residential; 3,000 hours (including 1,500 non-residential) over at least 18 months for Certified General. Your supervisor must personally inspect each property with you until they determine you are competent for that property type under USPAP's Competency Rule. Maintain a joint Appraisal Experience Log -- Idaho DOPL requires this with your application. Idaho trainees may work with more than one supervisory appraiser simultaneously.
Submit License Application to Idaho DOPL ($300)
Once your education and experience requirements are met, submit your license application to the Idaho Real Estate Appraiser Board with the $300 examination application fee. Include proof of qualifying education, your completed experience log signed by your supervisor(s), criminal background check results, and any college degree documentation (required for Certified levels). DOPL reviews your materials and, upon approval, authorizes you to schedule the national exam through Pearson VUE. Processing typically takes up to one month.
Pass the Pearson VUE National Exam (NULCE)
Schedule and pass the National Uniform Licensing and Certification Examination (NULCE) through Pearson VUE. Pay the $225 exam fee directly to Pearson VUE at scheduling. You must answer at least 75 of 125 scored questions correctly. The exam covers USPAP, all three valuation approaches, market analysis, statistics, and legal considerations. You have 4 hours and may retake up to 3 times ($225 per retake). Upon passing, Idaho DOPL issues your official license. Licensed and Certified licenses renew biennially (28 hrs CE).
Idaho Appraiser License Requirements
Eligibility
- Minimum age 18 for all credential levels
- Valid Social Security Number required
- Criminal history background check + fingerprinting ($33.25)
- No prior appraisal experience required for Trainee registration
- Out-of-state applicants welcome; reciprocity available ($300 fee)
- Supervisory appraiser: certified, 3+ years good standing, no disciplinary history
Education Requirements
- Trainee: 87 hrs AQB-approved QE (30+30+15+8+4 hours)
- Licensed Residential: 75-hr upgrade (158 hrs total)
- Certified Residential: 50-hr upgrade from Licensed (208 hrs total -- above AQB 200)
- Certified General: 225-hr upgrade from Trainee (308 hrs total -- above AQB 300)
- All levels: 15-hr USPAP + 8-hr Valuation Bias & Fair Housing (effective Jan 2026)
- Online AQB-approved providers (McKissock, CE Shop, Champions) accepted by Idaho DOPL
Exam (Pearson VUE)
- NULCE -- National Uniform Licensing & Certification Examination
- In-person at Pearson VUE testing centers
- Fee: $225 per attempt (paid to Pearson VUE)
- Passing score: 75 of 125 scored questions
- Time limit: 4 hours; up to 3 attempts allowed
- Required for Licensed, Certified Residential, Certified General -- NOT Trainee
Application Fees & Renewal
- Trainee application: $250 (Idaho DOPL)
- Licensed / Certified application: $300 (Idaho DOPL)
- Fingerprinting / background check: $33.25 (Idaho State Police)
- Licensed/Certified CE: 28 hours biennial (since July 1, 2025)
- Required CE: 7-hr USPAP Update Course every 2 years
- Trainee registrations remain on annual renewal cycle
Idaho Appraiser License Cost Breakdown
| Cost Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Trainee qualifying education (87 hrs) | $1,079 -- $1,997 |
| Idaho DOPL Trainee application fee | $250 |
| Fingerprinting / background check | $33.25 |
| Licensed Residential upgrade education (75 hrs) | $950 -- $1,449 |
| Idaho DOPL Licensed / Certified application fee | $300 |
| Pearson VUE exam fee (NULCE) | $225 |
| Certified Residential upgrade (50 hrs from Licensed) | $650 -- $1,119 |
| Certified General upgrade (225 hrs from Trainee) | $1,999 -- $2,925 |
| Exam prep / study materials | $0 -- $200 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $1,587 -- $2,474 |
All government fees are non-refundable. Verify current amounts with Idaho DOPL before applying.
The Idaho Appraiser Exam — What to Expect
Exam At a Glance
- Exam
- NULCE -- National Uniform Licensing & Certification Exam
- Provider
- Pearson VUE
- Questions
- 150 total (125 scored + 25 pretest)
- Time Limit
- 4 hours
- Passing Score
- 75 (out of 125 scored)
- Exam Fee
- $225 per attempt
- Pass Rate
- National estimate: approximately 60-70% (Idaho-specific rate not publicly available)
- Trainee Exempt
- Yes — no exam for Trainee
Key Exam Content Areas
- Real Property Concepts and Characteristics
- Legal Considerations in Appraisal
- Market Analysis and Highest and Best Use
- Sales Comparison Approach -- adjustments, paired-sales analysis
- Cost Approach -- depreciation methods, land valuation
- Income Approach -- capitalization, GRM (Certified General focus)
- Statistics, Modeling, and Finance
- USPAP -- ethics, competency, reporting standards (~20-25% of exam)
💡 Exam Prep Tips
- • Complete all qualifying education before scheduling -- course content is directly tested
- • Budget 4-6 weeks of dedicated study after completing QE
- • Focus heavily on USPAP -- it accounts for approximately 20-25% of exam questions
- • At $225 per attempt, thorough preparation is strongly worth the investment
- • McKissock, CE Shop, and Champions all offer supplemental exam prep materials
About Idaho DOPL — Idaho's Appraiser Regulator
Contact & Resources
- Full Name
- Idaho Real Estate Appraiser Board (Idaho DOPL)
- Website
- dopl.idaho.gov/rea/
- Phone
- Email: REA@dopl.idaho.gov
- Address
- 11351 W. Chinden Blvd., Bldg 6, Boise, Idaho 83714
- REA@dopl.idaho.gov
- Website
- dopl.idaho.gov/rea/
- Address
- 11351 W. Chinden Blvd., Bldg 6, Boise, ID 83714
- Appraiser Search
- apps.dopl.idaho.gov
Key Idaho Rules
- Four credential levels: Trainee ($250) -- Licensed Residential ($300) -- Certified Residential ($300) -- Certified General ($300)
- Trainee: 87 hrs QE, no experience required, no exam, $250 DOPL fee + $33.25 fingerprinting
- Idaho education standards above AQB minimums: CR = 208 hrs (AQB: 200), CG = 308 hrs (AQB: 300)
- Biennial renewal since July 1, 2025 -- 28 hrs CE; Trainee registrations remain annual
- Required CE: 7-hr USPAP Update Course + Valuation Bias & Fair Housing course (effective Jan 2026)
- Supervisory appraiser: certified, 3+ years good standing, max 3 trainees at once
- Certified General: Bachelor's degree required -- no alternatives accepted
- Reciprocity available for out-of-state licensed/certified appraisers -- $300 application fee
- Contact: REA@dopl.idaho.gov | dopl.idaho.gov/rea/
How Long Does It Take? Realistic Idaho Timelines
Full-Time
7-9 months to Licensed
- 1.Complete 87-hr QE online (3-5 weeks)
- 2.Register as Trainee with Idaho DOPL ($250 + $33.25)
- 3.Complete Licensed upgrade + 1,000 hrs / 6 months minimum
- 4.Apply to DOPL ($300) + pass Pearson VUE ($225)
Part-Time
12-18 months to Licensed
- 1.Complete 87-hr QE evenings/weekends (6-10 weeks)
- 2.Register as Trainee with Idaho DOPL
- 3.Accumulate 1,000 hrs working part-time under supervisor (10-16 months)
- 4.Apply + pass Pearson VUE after meeting all requirements
Certified General
4-6 years total
- 1.Complete 308-hr QE total; hold Bachelor's degree
- 2.3,000 hrs (1,500 non-residential) / 18 months minimum
- 3.Boise CG appraisers earn $87K-$130K+; commercial property focus
- 4.Pass CG-level Pearson VUE exam; apply to Idaho DOPL ($300)
Finding a qualified supervisory appraiser is often the most time-consuming step -- especially in rural Idaho markets outside Boise and Coeur d'Alene. Start your supervisor search early and consider reaching out to appraisal management companies (AMCs) that hire trainees directly.
Ready to Launch Your Idaho Appraisal Career?
Step-by-step guidance on Idaho DOPL requirements, finding a supervisory appraiser, and passing the Pearson VUE exam — free to your inbox.
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Explore More Licensed Careers in Idaho
Appraiser License Hub
Compare requirements across all 50 states
Idaho Real Estate License
Idaho pre-licensing & exam
Idaho Insurance License
Idaho insurance exam requirements
Idaho MLO License
20-hour NMLS course · SAFE exam
Washington Appraiser License
Compare requirements
Oregon Appraiser License
Compare requirements
Montana Appraiser License
Compare requirements
Utah Appraiser License
Compare requirements
Idaho Appraiser License Renewal
As of July 1, 2025, Idaho licensed and certified appraiser licenses renew every 2 years (biennial). Complete 28 hours of CE before renewal, including the required 7-hour USPAP Update Course. Effective January 1, 2026, a Valuation Bias & Fair Housing CE course is also required.
Trainee (Registered Appraiser Trainee) registrations and AMC licenses remain on an annual renewal cycle and are NOT affected by the July 2025 biennial change. Confirm your specific renewal type and deadline directly with Idaho DOPL.
Renew online at dopl.idaho.gov/rea/. Contact REA@dopl.idaho.gov for renewal questions or to confirm your renewal cycle.
Biennial (every 2 years) -- effective July 1, 2025
Renewal Cycle
28 hrs / cycle
CE Requirement
7 hrs required
USPAP Update
Required (Jan 2026)
Valuation Bias CE
Annual (separate cycle)
Trainee Renewal
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a licensed appraiser in Idaho?
The fastest path to a Licensed Residential Appraiser license in Idaho is approximately 7-9 months for a full-time candidate, since Idaho requires at least 1,000 hours of experience over no fewer than 6 months. Most working professionals take 12-18 months, combining online education with part-time supervised experience. Finding a qualified supervisory appraiser -- especially outside the Boise metro -- is often the most time-consuming step.
Who regulates real estate appraisers in Idaho?
The Idaho Real Estate Appraiser Board, operating under the Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses (DOPL), regulates all real estate appraisers in Idaho. Contact: REA@dopl.idaho.gov or dopl.idaho.gov/rea/. DOPL issues four credential levels under AQB standards required by Title XI of FIRREA. All Idaho appraisers performing federally related transaction appraisals must hold a DOPL-issued credential.
How much does it cost to get an Idaho appraiser license?
The total cost to become a Licensed Residential Appraiser in Idaho ranges from approximately $1,587 to $2,474. This includes trainee qualifying education ($1,079-$1,997), the $250 Trainee application fee, $33.25 fingerprinting fee, Licensed Residential upgrade education ($950-$1,449), the $300 licensed appraiser application fee, and the $225 Pearson VUE national exam fee. Certified Residential adds $650-$1,449 in QE costs; Certified General adds $1,999-$2,925.
What is the Pearson VUE appraiser exam like in Idaho?
Idaho appraisers take the National Uniform Licensing and Certification Examination (NULCE) through Pearson VUE at in-person testing centers. The exam fee is $225 per attempt. You must answer at least 75 of 125 scored questions correctly within 4 hours. Topics include USPAP, all three approaches to value (sales comparison, cost, income), market analysis, legal considerations, and statistics. You may retake up to 3 times. Budget 4-6 weeks of dedicated study after completing qualifying education.
Does Idaho require more education hours than the AQB minimum?
Yes. Idaho sets education requirements slightly above AQB minimums for the higher credential levels. Certified Residential requires 208 total hours in Idaho versus the AQB minimum of 200. Certified General requires 308 total hours versus the AQB minimum of 300. The Trainee level (87 hrs) and Licensed Residential level (158 hrs) also slightly exceed AQB minimums of 75 and 150 hours respectively. This reflects Idaho's commitment to appraiser competency above the national baseline.
What changed with Idaho appraiser license renewal on July 1, 2025?
On July 1, 2025, Idaho switched licensed and certified appraiser licenses from annual to biennial (2-year) renewal. This means you now complete 28 hours of continuing education every 2 years instead of every year. Important: Registered Appraiser Trainee registrations and AMC licenses are NOT affected -- they remain on an annual renewal cycle. Confirm your specific renewal date and cycle with Idaho DOPL at REA@dopl.idaho.gov.
Do I need a college degree to become an appraiser in Idaho?
No college degree is required for the Registered Appraiser Trainee or Licensed Residential Appraiser credentials. For Certified Residential, you need one of: a Bachelor's degree in any field, an Associate's degree in business, accounting, finance, economics, or real estate, 30 semester hours of specified college coursework, or five years as a Licensed Residential Appraiser in good standing. Certified General (the highest level) requires a full Bachelor's degree with no alternatives permitted.
How do I find a supervisory appraiser in Idaho?
Finding a supervisory appraiser can be challenging, especially outside the Boise metro. Idaho limits supervisors to 3 trainees at a time. Your best options: search DOPL's public appraiser database at apps.dopl.idaho.gov to find certified appraisers in your area; reach out to appraisal management companies (AMCs) that hire trainees; network on AppraisersForum.com and LinkedIn; contact local appraisal firms directly. In rural markets like Twin Falls, Pocatello, or eastern Idaho, personal outreach to individual Certified Appraisers is often the most effective strategy.
How much do real estate appraisers earn in Idaho?
Idaho real estate appraisers typically earn $55,000-$87,000 per year depending on credential level and location. Indeed reports an average of $57,635 for Idaho appraisers (Dec 2025); Salary.com shows $55,679 for residential appraisers; ZipRecruiter estimates $86,348. Boise and the Treasure Valley offer the highest salaries. Self-employed Certified General Appraisers handling commercial properties in the Boise metro can earn $100,000-$130,000+ annually. Idaho's high median home price (~$454,300) supports competitive appraisal fees of $350-$650 per residential assignment.
What continuing education do Idaho appraisers need?
As of July 1, 2025, Idaho licensed and certified appraisers must complete 28 hours of CE every 2 years (biennial cycle). Required CE includes the 7-hour USPAP Update Course and, effective January 1, 2026, a Valuation Bias & Fair Housing course. All CE must be completed through Idaho DOPL-approved providers. Trainee registrations renew annually on a separate cycle. Contact REA@dopl.idaho.gov or visit dopl.idaho.gov/rea/ to confirm your renewal date and approved CE providers.