how to get a real estate license

How to Get a Real Estate License

1. Understand state licensing and education requirements.
2. Take a pre-licensing course.
3. Pass your state licensing exam.
4. File a real estate license application.
5. Find a real estate brokerage.
6. Join the National Association of Realtors (NAR).
7. Renew your license regularly.

Full Answer

How long does it take to get your real estate license?

Along with the coursework, the application process can be rather instant in some states and can take a few weeks in others. The average time it will take, regardless of your state, to get your real estate license will be between 3 and 6 months. Frequently Asked Questions About Getting a Real Estate License

How much does it cost to get a real estate license?

The license application process includes the real estate exam fee, fingerprinting costs, and the real estate license fee itself. This can run anywhere from $100-$300 or more depending on the location. Remember, if you don’t pass the exam the first time, you’ll have to pay for subsequent retakes, so make sure you are thoroughly prepared.

What to know before becoming a real estate agent?

What You Should Know Before Becoming A Realtor

• Before Becoming A Realtor, Know About The Code. ...
• Aspects To Keep In Mind Before Becoming A Realtor. ...
• Information To Consider Before Becoming A Realtor. ...
• Before Becoming A Realtor, Be Aware Of This Salary Data. ...
• Look At This Example Before Becoming A Realtor. ...

What are the requirements for a real estate license?

• Negotiates with or aids a person in locating or obtaining for purchase, lease or acquisition of interest in real estate.
• Negotiates the listing, sale, purchase, exchange, lease, time share and similarly designated interests, financing or option for real estate.
• Manages real estate.

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How much does it cost to take Alabama real estate exam?

After you've completed your pre-license education and course exam, it is time to take the Alabama Real Estate Exam. The fee to take the exam is $77 per attempt. The Alabama Real Estate Exam consists of 140 questions. This includes 100 for the National section and 40 for the State section.

What does the average realtor make in Alabama?

Below are all 50 states and how much real estate sales agents earn a year on average....January 29, 2019.StateAlabama2017 Mean Annual Wage$55,9602016 Mean Annual Wage$58,7002015 Mean Annual Wage$61,1301-Year Change-4.70%49 more columns•Jan 29, 2019

How much does it cost to take the Texas real estate exam?

When you submit your sales agent application to the TREC, you'll need to pay a $205 application fee. Additionally, you'll need to take — and pass — the Texas real estate exam, which comes with a testing fee of $54.

How long does it take to get your real estate license in Alabama?

On average, it takes four (4) months to obtain your real estate license in Alabama. However, many students take far less or far more time to get their license. You can obtain a license in just a few weeks, or you can take your time and earn your license over the course of a year.

What is the highest paying job in Alabama?

Anesthesiologists. Annual mean salary: $306,670. #20 highest pay among all metros. ... Pediatricians, general. Annual mean salary: $230,150. #25 highest pay among all metros. ... Family medicine physicians. Annual mean salary: $224,300. ... Nurse anesthetists. Annual mean salary: $209,200. ... Chief executives.

How do you get your real estate license in Alabama?

The five steps to becoming an Alabama real estate agent are as follows:Step 1: Be at Least 19 Years of Age. ... Step 2: Register for the 60 Hours of Required Education. ... Step 3: Apply for your Real Estate License Examination. ... Step 4: Take the Alabama and National Licensing Exam. ... Step 5: Apply for Your Alabama State License.

Do Realtors make a lot of money?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average real estate agent earns $45,990 each year, but the range in income is massive. One-tenth of real estate agents earned less than $23,000, and 10% earned more than $110,000.

Is it worth it to get into real estate?

One of the greatest advantages of becoming a real estate agent is the unlimited income potential. As an agent, there is no limit to how much you earn. That's because real estate agents work for a commission. Typically, the agent walks away with 2.5% - 3% of a property's sale price.

How long is Realtor school in Texas?

Texas students are required to take 180 hours of Pre-Licensing coursework to become a licensed real estate agent. These 180 hours are broken down into six 30-hour courses that cover a wide range of topics that will educate the candidate and prepare them for their career.

How long is Realtor school?

2-5 monthsOn average, it takes anywhere from 2-5 months to complete real estate school and earn a real estate license. However, this can vary depending on your state's licensing requirements and application process and whether you choose an online real estate school or traditional classroom courses.

Is Alabama a good place to be a real estate agent?

Top Agent Magazine's top real estate agents in Alabama have earned themselves a reputation for being the best real estate agents. Alabama's top real estate agents come from Birmingham, Montgomery, Mobile, Huntsville, Hoover, Tuscaloosa, and all cities and suburbs in between.

How hard is the Alabama real estate exam?

In order to get your real estate license in the state of Alabama, you need to meet certain eligibility requirements, complete the required 60 hours of pre-license education, and jump probably the most difficult hurdle: passing the Alabama real estate exam. Very few people like taking tests for any reason.

How to Become A Real Estate Agent

Still, buying and selling real estate isn't as easy as it might look. And it's a notoriously tough industry for newbies; some real estate experts l...

Step 1: Take A Pre-Licensing Course

Cost: $200 to $300States require people to take pre-licensing training from a certified institution before they can sit for the real estate licensi...

Step 2: Take The Licensing Exam

Cost: $100 to $300Revisit your state real estate commission's website for instructions on how to sign up to take the licensing exam. (Most states o...

Step 3: Get Your Real Estate Ducks in A Row

Pass the test? Congratulations! Here's what you need to do next to start engaging with clients: 1. Activate your license through your state real es...

Step 4: Consider Becoming A REALTOR®

In order to become a full-fledged Realtor®—a licensed agent with the ability to use that widely respected title—you need to be a member of the Nati...

Step 5: Join A Brokerage

In order to become a real estate agent and legally practice real estate, you must work under a supervising broker. Brokers are licensed by the stat...

How old do you have to be to get a real estate license?

Be sure to check your state’s licensing requirements below, as details vary by state. In general, most states require the following: Successfully complete a pre-license course. Be at least 18 or 19 years old (state regulations ...

How often do you need to renew your realtor license?

The license must be renewed every 1-2 years and you must show proof of continuing education courses when renewing. Realtor: A realtor is basically a real estate agent who is an active member of the National Association of Realtors.

What is the difference between an active and inactive real estate license?

Licensed individuals working under a sponsored broker have an active license, which means they can engage in real estate brokerage activities, while an inactive real estate license means the opposite. The person doesn’t have a sponsoring broker, and because of that, is not eligible to engage in any type of real estate brokerage activities.

How to contact a sponsoring broker?

The simplest and fastest way is to research brokerages in your city and contact them via email or phone. Schedule a meeting with a broker, offer them your services and discuss their requirements as a sponsoring broker and if they would be willing to take you under their wing. Read more about how to pick a sponsoring broker that is right for you.

How old do you have to be to be a realtor?

Be at least 18 or 19 years old (state regulations vary) with residency in the US. Graduated from high school or obtained a GED. Passed a criminal background check. Successfully passed both the State and National portions of the Salesperson Real Estate Exam.

How much does a pre-licensing course cost?

The pre-licensing course will cost anywhere between $150 and $1,500 depending on the provider you select and the number of course hours your state requires.

Can a principal join a real estate firm?

If you are part of a real estate firm, your principal must be a member. If your principal is not a member, neither you, nor any other employees, can join. If you meet these requirements, go to the NAR membership page and follow the steps to apply.

What does it mean to get a real estate license?

Getting your real estate license means that you are ready to work as a real estate professional: showing homes, meeting new clients, and acting on behalf of home buyer or seller clients. As a licensed real estate agent, you can take the next exciting steps to build a successful career in real estate. While getting your real estate agent license ...

How long does it take to become a real estate agent?

Becoming a real estate agent is not an overnight process. Depending on the state, getting your license and becoming an agent takes an average of two to six months. For most people, the longest step is completing the pre-licensing education requirements.

Why hang your real estate license up at work?

Once you get your real estate license, it’s time to celebrate! Hang your license up at work to show your new colleagues and clients that you completed the process and are ready to put your knowledge to work.

How much does it cost to get fingerprinted for real estate?

Fees for fingerprinting and a background check range from $35 to over $100. There is often a time limit on completing this step.

How much does a real estate agent make?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, real estate sales agents make an average of $48,930 annually . This can vary widely depending on your location, amount of experience and client base, and time of year.

How many hours of real estate classes are required?

The required hours range from 63 to 180 documented hours from an approved program.

What is the best organization for real estate?

One of the top professional organizations for real estate professionals is the National Association of Realtors®. Joining this national association comes with a lot of perks and designates you as a Realtor®.

How much does it cost to become a real estate agent?

Cost: $200 to $300. States require people to take pre-licensing training from a certified institution before they can sit for the real estate licensing exam. The required number of training hours can vary significantly by jurisdiction: In Virginia, for example, real estate agents must take 60 hours of pre-licensing training, ...

What is a broker license?

Brokers are licensed by the state to oversee real estate transactions and ensure that real estate salespeople (that’s you!) are adhering to the required legal and ethical standards.Think of it as a similar safeguard to how stockbrokers must work at a licensed firm to trade stocks, rather than just winging it on their own.

What is the NAR membership?

Membership in the NAR offers a number of benefits, including access to real estate market data, discounts on education courses, and transaction management services. And being able to use Realtor on your business card and your marketing materials also adds credibility.

How many questions are asked in the real estate exam?

Both typically consist of 60 to 100 multiple-choice questions, including math questions that require you to use a calculator (e.g., prorating taxes for a specific property).

How often do you have to take the Florida license exam?

In some states like Florida, 50% fail the first time . The bright side is you can usually take the exam as often as you want over a two-year period. But once two years elapse, applicants are required to retake the pre-licensing course.

How much do real estate agents make?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, real estate agents make an average of $45,610 per year —and the top 10% tier of agents earned a whopping $166,940 in 2015.

Why is membership in MLS important?

Membership in your local MLS is essential, since you must use the system to list properties, which are then dispersed to websites like realtor.com®. The service also enables you to easily pull a property’s tax information, analyze market trends, and see listings before they go on the market.

How old do you have to be to get a real estate license?

To qualify for a real estate salesperson's license, an applicant must be at least 18 years of age, have a high school education or equivalency, complete a 75-hour pre-licensure course at a licensed school and pass the license examination.

What is a broker salesperson license?

A broker-salesperson has the qualifications of a real estate broker but is employed by and operates under the supervision of a licensed real estate broker to perform the functions of a real estate salesperson.

What is the New Jersey Real Estate Commission?

Currently, all applicants who wish to receive their license as a broker, salesperson, or broker-salesperson must fulfill the educational requirements for licensure established by law and pass an examination conducted under the supervision of the REC. The REC is empowered to revoke licenses and/or otherwise sanction individuals and firms for violations of the license law.

Does New Jersey have pre-licensure classes?

The local boards and associations throughout the state of New Jersey offer in-person pre-licensure classes throughout the year. Check out the calendar below for more information on the individual courses.

Do realtors have to be licensed in New Jersey?

The laws and mandates set forth by the New Jersey Real Estate Commission are separate from the regulations of the Realtor® organization, though all New Jersey Realtors® must first be licensed real estate professionals with the state.

Who needs a real estate license?

This license is required of individuals who conduct licensed real estate activities as described in the Real Estate Law under the supervision of a licensed broker. A license may also be obtained by a person who does not immediately intend to be employed by a broker. However, a salesperson without an responsible broker may not perform acts requiring a real estate license.

How many college level courses are required to become a real estate agent?

Successful completion of three college-level courses is required to qualify for a real estate salesperson examination:

How many hours does a real estate course take?

Each course approved by the Department of Real Estate is a minimum of 45 hours in length. Search for approved statutory/pre-license real estate courses. Courses completed through foreign institutions of higher learning must be evaluated by a foreign credentials evaluation service approved by the Department of Real Estate.

How old do you have to be to get a California driver's license?

General Requirements. Age: You must be 18 years of age or older to be issued a license. Residence: If you are not a California resident, see Out-of-State Applicants. Honesty: Applicants must be honest and truthful. Conviction of a crime may result in the denial of a license.

Is the California State Bar exempt from college level courses?

Members of the California State Bar are statutorily exempt from the college-level course requirements. Evidence of admission to practice Law in California must be furnished, such as a photocopy of both sides of a California State Bar membership card. Also, applicants who submit evidence of having completed the eight statutory college-level courses ...

How old do you have to be to sell real estate?

Selling real estate requires a passion for people and properties, and it also requires a license. First, you need to be at least 18 years old, a high school graduate or equivalent and have a U.S. Social Security number. If you meet those basic requirements, you’re ready for the next five steps.

How long do you have to take fingerprints before you can get a license?

You’ll need to have your fingerprints taken at least 5 days before you send your license application. See where and how to get electronic fingerprints (PDF).

How long does it take to become a sales associate?

Take the state-approved sales associate 63-hour pre-license course and pass the exam.

Is a real estate license active?

Your real estate license is not technically active until you are affiliated with a licensed broker. A sponsoring broker will activate your license using the DBPR RE 11–Sales Associate form (PDF).

How to get a commercial real estate license in Georgia?

How to Get a Georgia Commercial Real Estate License. To sell commercial real estate in Georgia, a standard Salesperson or Broker license is all that you need. There is no specific “commercial real estate license”. If you wish to take on a career selling specifically commercial real estate, choose a broker that handles the types ...

How to become a real estate agent in Georgia?

The requirements to become a real estate agent in Georgia are: 1 Be a citizen of the United States or a lawfully admitted alien 2 Be 18 years of age or older 3 Have a high school diploma or General Education Development (GED)

How much does it cost to take the real estate exam in Georgia?

The fee to take the exam is $121 per attempt. The Georgia Real Estate Exam consists of 152 questions.

What is the point of taking agent courses?

Remember that the point of these courses isn’t just to check a box and complete a requirement, but rather to prepare you to pass your exam and become a better agent .

How long do you have to do a background check before you can become a real estate agent in Georgia?

You need to complete your fingerprinting and background check no more than 60 days prior to submitting your application. The Georgia Real Estate Commission requires that all applicants have a background check performed before they can become a licensed real estate agent.

What is the passing rate for real estate in Georgia?

The passing rate for the Georgia Real Estate Salesperson Exam is 72%. This test is purposefully difficult, but not impossible. Be sure to pay attention during your pre-license course and take studying seriously. If you put the proper effort forth, we know that you can pass on your first attempt!

Where can I register for the real estate exam in Georgia?

You can register to take your exam on the PSI Georgia Real Estate Exam page. On this page, you will find some other helpful resources as well, including the Candidate Handbook and Content Outline.

What is the number to contact Ohio real estate license?

For more information, contact the Ohio Division of Real Estate & Professional Licensing at 614-466-4100. (ODRE – Updated 06/2017) Q: I am a real estate salesperson in a state that has a reciprocal agreement with Ohio.

How many hours do you need to be a real estate agent in Ohio?

Education Requirements. Ohio Real Estate Law (40 hours)

How many hours of continuing education do you need to renew your broker license in Ohio?

Educational Requirements to renew a Broker License: The state of Ohio requires 30 hours of continuing education to be completed every three years by the licensee’s birthday. The first continuing education due date for a new licensee is three years after the licensee’s first birthday following licensure.

What is the minimum score required to become a real estate agent in Ohio?

The applicant must pass the State and National portions of the Ohio Real Estate Salesperson Exam in order for a license to be issued. Passing score: 70

How old do you have to be to be a real estate broker in Ohio?

Be at least 18 years old. Be sponsored by an Ohio Broker. Not have been convicted of a felony or a crime of moral turpitude. Not have violated any civil rights laws regarding real estate within the past two years as determined by a court of law or violated any rules of the Ohio Division of Real Estate.

Where to take pre-licensing courses in Ohio?

In Ohio pre-licensing courses must be taken at an Institution of Higher Education . There are numerous schools, universities and community colleges that offer pre-license education around the state. Fingerprint/Background Check Requirements. Division provides instructions on new background check requirements.

How much does a real estate license in Texas cost?

The application fee for a real estate license in Texas is $120. In order to be eligible for licensure, you must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and be a legal resident of the United States. You must also complete an approved real estate education course and pass a state-required exam.

Is it worth getting a real Tennessee real estate license?

The decision of whether or not to become a licensed real estate agent in Texas is ultimately up to you. However, keep in mind that licensure requirements must be met in order to work as an agent in the state. These requirements include passing a state-required exam, completing an approved education course, and paying applicable fees. In addition, licensed agents in Texas are required to complete continuing education courses each year in order to maintain compliance.