FAQ
Auto Damage Appraiser FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as an auto damage appraiser.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming an auto damage appraiser: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about auto damage appraisers
Do auto appraisers need a license?
Many states require one.
Is the job growing?
BLS projects decline as photo estimating grows.
Can body shop experience help?
Yes, it’s a common path.
How much does an auto damage appraiser make?
The median annual wage for auto damage appraisers was $78,240 ($37.61 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $58,360 and the highest 10% earned more than $101,590.
How long does it take to become an auto damage appraiser?
Most people need about Training program plus months on the job of training. A postsecondary training program or auto body experience plus on-the-job training is typical; many states require a license.
Do you need a degree to be an auto damage appraiser?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “postsecondary nondegree award” as the typical entry-level education, plus moderate-term on-the-job training.
Is auto damage appraiser a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change -8.7% from 2025–35 (a projected decline), with about 700 openings each year. Upsides include independent field work; a common challenge is that declining employment.
What skills does an auto damage appraiser need?
Key technical skills include damage assessment, estimating software, auto body repair knowledge, and vehicle valuation. Employers also value attention to detail, integrity, and communication.
What certifications are available for auto damage appraisers?
Common credentials include State appraiser license, I-CAR training, ASE certification, and Estimating software certification. Many states require a license to appraise vehicle damage for insurance claims.
Still deciding?
Try the Auto Damage Appraiser fit quiz, compare with Claims Adjuster, or explore Auto Damage Appraiser training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 13-1032 (Insurance appraisers, auto damage).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Insurance appraisers, auto damage (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.