How do I become an auctioneer and what training do I need?

The path depends heavily on where you live. Some states require a license, which may involve completing a course at an approved auction school, passing an exam, serving an apprenticeship, or posting a bond. Other states have little or no statewide licensing, though counties or cities may have their own rules. Check with your state's licensing board or commission before you start.

Many new auctioneers attend an auction school, where courses typically cover bid calling, contracts, marketing, ethics, and the business side of running sales. Programs are often short, intensive sessions rather than long degree programs.

The real learning usually happens on the job. Working for an established auction company as a ringman, clerk, or setup crew teaches you how sales run, how to handle sellers and buyers, and how to value merchandise. Many successful auctioneers spent years working sales before running their own.