Insurance Appraisers, Auto Damage
Insurance appraisers for auto damage inspect vehicles and assess repair costs following accidents or damage claims. They work for insurance companies, independent appraisal firms, or automotive repair shops, examining damage, preparing detailed cost estimates, and documentation for insurance settlements.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against insurance appraisers, auto damage and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves inspecting damaged vehicles at repair shops, accident sites, or insurance facilities. Appraisers photograph damage, measure affected areas, and document findings. They use software to calculate repair estimates based on parts costs and labor hours. Significant time goes to writing appraisal reports and communicating with repair shops and insurance adjusters about cost assessments and claim recommendations.
Who this work suits
Holland code CRE. Conventional work is organized, detail-oriented work with clear procedures. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
This work suits people who prefer practical, hands-on tasks and attention to detail. If you prefer working with concrete facts and established procedures rather than abstract concepts, and you're comfortable making objective assessments based on evidence, this career aligns well with conventional and realistic interests.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience). Most people in this occupation hold a certificate or training program.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | $92,270 | $97,950 | $101,160 | — |
| Pennsylvania | $85,970 | $95,720 | $101,060 | 310 |
| New Jersey | $81,730 | $94,280 | $99,670 | — |
| Connecticut | $75,630 | $89,740 | $94,710 | 210 |
| South Carolina | $80,760 | $86,680 | $94,390 | 220 |
| Arizona | $66,800 | $86,030 | $86,030 | 40 |
| Oregon | $81,070 | $83,270 | $88,800 | 170 |
| Maryland | $79,250 | $82,870 | $94,690 | — |
| Utah | $71,000 | $82,570 | $100,080 | 50 |
| Oklahoma | $67,590 | $82,340 | $82,920 | — |
| Georgia | $67,760 | $81,470 | $103,270 | — |
| Virginia | $76,800 | $81,470 | $90,140 | — |
All 38 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Truck Equipment Certification - E2 Electrical/Electronic Systems Installation & Repair — National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence
- Associate in Claims - Management (AIC-M) — The Institutes
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against insurance appraisers, auto damage and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 13-1032.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.