How to apply for a real estate license or broker's license?
To apply for a real estate license or a broker's license, you must generally use state's online services portal. You will start by creating an account. You use this portal to upload any required documentation and to pay your initial application fee.
Check out the specific requirements for your state in the list below.
Choose the answer by state?
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
Alabama
How to apply for a real estate license in Alabama?
When you pass the state exam, you’ll be given Alabama real estate license application instructions with your score report. You have 90 days from the date of passing your exam to apply for a temporary license.
Your application must include:
• Proof of a high school diploma or its equivalent
• Proof of US residency
• Proof of citizenship, permanent residency, or legal presence
•Proof of age
• Fingerprints for a state and federal background check
For your Temporary License, you’ll be given a paper application after passing the state licensing exam. When it’s time for your permanent license, yes, you’ll use the AREC Online Services to file.
Alaska
How to apply for my real estate license in Alaska?
Alaska provides applicants the option to use an online application or a paper application. For online applications, follow the instructions to create an account and start the process. Paper applications can be printed and mailed in.
The Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development accepts both online applications and paper applications. An online application is the easiest and fastest way to submit your application for processing.
The Alaska Real Estate Commission offers a group policy through RISC. Their policies vary by the kind of coverage and its limits. The fee you pay also varies depending on when you enroll. You can select a private carrier as long as the policy meets the required minimum standards as detailed in Article 4.
Arizona
How to apply for my real estate license in Arizona?
Once you pass the state exam, you’ll be given Arizona real estate license application instructions with your official examination report. You have one year from the date of passing your exam to apply for your license.
Online license application filing is recommended as it is the fastest way to submit your salesperson license documents.
Your application process will include submitting Disciplinary Actions Disclosure Form (LI-214/244). All applicants must complete it and, depending on answers, may be required to submit additional information.
Your application must include:
• Proof of a lawful presence in the United States
• Arizona State Exam score report
• 90-hour pre-licensure course completion certificate
• 6-hour Contract Writing Course Certificate
Arkansas
How to apply for my Arkansas real estate license?
You’ll need to complete the application and send it to the Arkansas Real Estate Commission at least 30 days before you want to take the state licensing exam.
Arkansas Real Estate Commission does not have an online application option for new salesperson licensees. You’ll need to print out the license application and send it to the AREC.
California
How to apply for a real estate license in California?
If you have a sponsoring broker by the time you are ready to apply for the state licensing exam, you can submit a Combined Exam/License Application, which allows you to apply for both the state exam and your real estate license at the same time. You can mail an application or use the Real Estate eLicensing System. The online application process has a faster processing time.
When submitting the Combined Exam/License Application, you must include the following documents:
• Copies of your 3 Course Completion Certificates (one from each of the 3, 45-hour pre-licensing courses).
• A copy of your Live Scan Service Request form (which is used when you get fingerprinted).
• The exam and license application fee of $305, plus a fingerprinting fee of $49.
• If you are not a California resident, you must submit a signed and notarized Consent to Service of Process form.
After you pass the state licensing exam, the DRE will send you your real estate license. There is no need to submit a separate license application.
If you do not have a sponsoring broker by the time you are ready to take the state exam, you must submit a Salesperson Examination Application using the eLicensing System. Once you pass the state licensing exam, return to your eLicensing account to file a Salesperson License Application. You must upload the following documents:
• A copy of your Live Scan Service Request form (which is used when you get fingerprinted).
• The license application fee of $245, plus a fingerprinting fee of $49.
• If you are not a California resident, you must submit a signed and notarized Consent to Service of Process form.
The DRE will need a few weeks to process your license application. Once your application is approved, the DRE will send you your real estate license.
Honorably discharged Veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces are eligible for expedited processing by the DRE.
In order to receive an expedited processing time, you must submit a copy of your U.S. DD Form 214, NGB-22 form, or Honorable Discharge certificate to confirm your condition of discharge, along with your license application.
You must mail your application to the following address:
Department of Real Estate
P.O. Box 137014
Sacramento, CA 95813-7014
Attn: Expedited Military Processing
To use the DRE’s eLicensing System, first create an account and be registered as an authorized user. The initial step verifies your identity by entering your Social Security Number and date of birth.
After this information is confirmed by the DRE, you will be requested to enter a Username and Password. The registration process will ask for an email address which, if provided, is used to update you of events associated with your account, such as certification of employment.
Once you have an account, you can apply for a real estate exam, schedule an exam, submit a license application, renew your license, or change your broker.
Colorado
How to apply for my Colorado real estate license?
Colorado’s Division of Real Estate uses an online application portalto apply for your initial broker license and to manage future your license needs.
In your application package, you will need to upload or send to the Division of Real Estate:
• An official transcript from a major course of study in real estate from an accredited institution OR your form REC-33 Course Completion Certificate from the 168-hour CO Pre-License Broker Course as proof you met the completed the required education.
• Proof of E&O insurance
• Additional documentation for any positive responses on the screening form, like court records, sworn statements, or letters of recommendation
• Submit to a fingerprint background check (will be matched by the CDRE)
• Identify an employing broker
Your broker application fee will cost $200. View the full instructions regarding completing your broker application.
Colorado has an online applicationfor the broker’s license. The CDRE portal is essential for managing your license and its renewal.
Connecticut
How to apply for my Connecticut real estate license?
The Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection has contracted with PSI to manage the real estate licensing process. The Candidate Information Handbook has the Real Estate License Application. Follow the directions to complete the application. Completed applications are to be mailed to:
PSI Examination Services
3210 East Tropicana Ave
Las Vegas, NV 89121
The application for the Connecticut salesperson license is not available online. All the documents are printable from the Candidate Information Handbook. The application must be notarized and mailed to the testing vendor PSI.
Delaware
How to apply for my Delaware real estate license?
Delaware's Department of Professional Licensing only accepts online license applications. You must create a DELPROS account. When you go to the website, click on the "register" button to start an account for new users. Existing users can enter log-in information on the right.
Florida
How to apply for a real estate license in Florida?
You have the option of making your application online or mailing in a hard copy. You will also need to pay the $83.75 fee. If you decide to mail in your application, you will need to submit it to:
Department of Business and Professional Regulation
2601 Blair Stone Road
Tallahassee, FL 32399-0783
If you have a criminal history or have faced disciplinary action regarding a professional license in the past, you will want to ensure you are including all the required documentation.
If you are requesting exemption from the education requirements or a portion of the state exam, you will need to provide supporting documents with your application, such as a certified license history or official college transcript.
Military veterans as well as active military members, and their spouses, can request waivers of some or all of the initial licensing fees.
Florida’s Department of Business and Professional Regulation has the power to waive initial licensing fees, as well as the initial application fee, for military veterans returning from service who apply for a Florida real estate sales associate license. The waiver request can also be made for the veteran’s spouse. The real estate sales associate licensing application must be submitted within 60 months of honorable discharge from any of the U.S. armed forces, including the National Guard. The Department will determine whether or not to grant the waiver.
Active military members who are currently serving or have formerly served on active duty may apply for a waiver to the licensing fee, but will still be responsible for the application fee. This request also applies to spouses or surviving spouses who were married to the military member during a period of active duty.
If you wish to file for military veteran fee waivers, you will need to include a military veteran fee waiver request form along with your Florida real estate sales associate license application.
Neither fee waiver request applies to license renewal.
In addition, active duty members of the military or those receiving an honorable discharge from active duty, as well as their spouses or surviving spouses, may apply for a real estate sales associate licenses without passing the Florida state exam if they already hold a valid real estate license in another state, the District of Columbia, any U.S. territory or possession or a foreign jurisdiction. Applicants will still need to be fingerprinted and must submit the designated application for military/veterans and meet the requirements for military status and proof of current licensure.
It typically takes anywhere from 10 to 30 days to complete the application process, if the application is submitted as complete. The Department of Business and Professional Regulation must complete its process and provide notice of approval or denial within 90 days or less. Real estate license applicants will be notified if any clarification or additional information is required.
Georgia
How to apply for a real estate license in Georgia?
You can apply for your license at the PSI testing center, right after you pass the State exam.
• After you pass the State exam, you will receive a Certificate of Accuracy Statement, which will be used when you apply for your license.
• You have the option to apply for an active or inactive license, depending on if you have a sponsoring broker.
• If you apply for an active license, you must submit the following 5 documents:
- A valid ID along with the Certificate of Accuracy Statement.
- A completed Sponsoring Broker Statement Form.
- A non-refundable license fee of $170.
- A criminal history report or Georgia Crime Information Report.
- A signed and notarized Lawful Presence Affidavit.
You have one year to apply for your license after passing the State exam. If you do not obtain your license within one year, you must retake and pass the State exam.
Once your documents are reviewed and approved you will receive your Georgia Real Estate Salespersons license!
You will receive an 8-1/2" x 4" wall certificate, two pocket cards, and an 8-1/2" x 11" wall certificate, which can be framed. You must give your sponsoring broker one of the pocket cards and wall certificates, which they will hang on to as long as you work under that broker.
Hawaii
How to apply to be a real estate agent in Hawaii?
When you successfully pass the state licensing exam, you receive the Hawaii real estate salesperson license application at the PSI Testing Center. You'll need to use this application and its instructions to submit your license application within two years of passing the exam. Hawaii uses a paper application process.
Hawaii Department of Consumer and commerce Affairs, Real Estate Commission, does not have an online application process at this time. You'll need to use the application handed to you at the PSI Testing Center when you pass the exam.
Idaho
How to apply to be a real estate agent in Idaho?
You need to create an account with the Idaho Real Estate Commission's Online Services. This will enable you to check on your fingerprint status. When you see the message ”RES-OK,” your fingerprints have cleared and you can submit your license application. Unfortunately, you won't be able to submit this application online. While you can track your status online, you can't apply online. You will need to print it out and attach all required documents. The Idaho salesperson license application is a paper application that requires you to find a notary public.
Idaho requires all real estate salespersons to have a current Errors & Omissions policy before receiving an active license. The IREC has a group policy held with Rice Insurance Services, or you may be covered under your brokerage’s firm policy. Consult with your hiring broker.
Illinois
How to apply for a real estate license in Illinois?
To apply for an Illinois broker license, you must use the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulations Online Services Portal. You will start by creating an account. You use this portal to upload any required documentation and to pay your $125 initial application fee.
Indiana
How to apply for a real estate license in Indiana?
Indiana does not offer an online application portal. You’ll need to mail a paper application and its required supporting documents to the Commission.
Include in your application package:
• A $60.00 check or money order made out to the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency or "IPLA"
• Your Course Completion Certificate from the 90-hour IN Pre-License Broker Course as proof you met the completed the required education.
• Your score report from the PSI state licensing exam as evidence you passed the pre-licensing exam.
• For any positive responses on the screening form, include the additional supporting documents, like court records and sworn statements.
• If you have licenses from regulated professions in other states, include their verification.
• Fill in information about your sponsoring broker.
View the full instructions regarding completing your broker application.
Iowa
How to apply for a real estate license in Iowa?
As a matter of fact, Iowa uses an online application system, My Iowa PLB. You need to create an account with My Iowa PLB. You will initiate your fingerprints, apply for your salesperson license, and manage your active license through this portal. You will follow the prompts to initiate a salesperson licensing application. You will also need to upload copies of your education certificates, the passing score report for the state licensing exam, and your proof of insurance.
Kansas
How to apply for a real estate license in Kansas?
Once you pass the Kansas licensing exam, you will receive an official score report and license application documents at the test center.You will need to submit your certificate of completion for the pre-license education, the license application, and a $125 salesperson license fee. Your affiliating license Kansas real estate broker must sign your licensing application.
Kansas does not have an online application system for Real Estate salespersons. You'll have to use the application materials given to you at the Pearson VUE testing center.
Kentucky
How to apply to be a real estate agent in Kentucky?
You will receive a licensing application at the PSI Testing Center when you pass the state licensing exam. In addition, the Kentucky Real Estate Commission will send you an email within 36-48 hours of passing the exam with online application instructions. If you don't receive this email, contact the KREC. You can use either form to apply for your salesperson license.
Kentucky Real Estate Commission offers a group Errors & Omissions Insurance policy carried by RISC Insurance Company. Or, you can carry E&O through a private carrier. Consult with your principal broker about which policy to purchase. You will need to submit the “Private Carrier Certification of Coverage” form.
Louisiana
How to apply to be a real estate agent in Louisiana?
Louisiana has an online application portal to apply for your initial salesperson license and to manage future license needs. However, for Part A of the Salesperson Application and Part B, you’ll submit a paper application and associated documents.
Your salesperson application fee will cost $90.
Maine
How to apply to be a real estate agent in Maine?
Maine gives you two options to apply for the sales agent license. You can apply online or mail a paper application. An online application will process faster and be more convenient for you to complete.
Maryland
How to apply to be a real estate agent in Maryland?
Maryland offers an online application portal. After passing the state exam, you’ll receive an email from the Maryland Real Estate Commission with your registration number and instructions. The only exception is if you have been convicted of a criminal offense or had a disciplinary action against a prior professional real estate license. In that case, you need to request a paper application for review by the MREC.
Massachusetts
How to apply to be a real estate agent in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts Board of Real Estate Licensing does not have an online application process at this time.
You will need to visit PSI examination services online and download the Massachusetts Candidate Information Book. Inside the book you will find the application checklist and the application documents. You need to print these out. Gather the required materials and, once you are ready, you will need to mail in your application to:
PSI Examination Services
ATTN: Examination Registration MA RE 3210 E Tropicana Ave.
Las Vegas, NV 89121
Michigan
How to apply for a real estate license in Michigan?
MiPLUS is an acronym for the Michigan Professional Licensing User System. It is the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs' (LARA) online platform used to submit a license application, transfer a real estate license between brokers, and renew a real estate license.
Before you can schedule your state licensing exam, you must first create your free MiPLUS account and submit your license application.
Here are the steps you need to take to submit your Michigan real estate salespersons application through your MiPLUS account:
1) Log in to your MiPLUS account.
2) Click on "Licenses" at the top of the screen and then click on "Apply for a License or Submit a Request".
3) Accept the General Disclaimer.
4) Click on the arrow next to "Real Estate" and then select "Real Estate Salesperson Application".
5) Click "Select from Account" and check the box next to your address.
6) Select the county where you live.
7) Answer the questions regarding "Obtain by Method" and "Good Moral Character".
8) Click on "Add a Row" to add your education information. Add "RealEstateU" as the "Name of School", and enter in your date of completion for the course (indicated on your Course Completion Certificate).
9) Click "Add" and upload your Course Completion Certificate (required for ALL applicants), Consent to Service of Process (required for non-Michigan residents), Social Security Affidavit (required for applicants that do not have a U.S. Social Security number), and/or DD214 or DD215 (required for applicants requesting the Armed Forces Fee Waiver).
10) Review your application information and check the "I agree" box. Then click "Continue Application".
11) Pay the license fee via debit or credit card.
Click HERE for a step-by-step visual guide on how to submit your license application through MiPLUS.
Here are the steps you need to take to setup your free MiPLUS account. A step-by-step visual tutorial is also available HERE:
1) Go to the MiPLUS website.
2) Click on "New Users: Register for an Account".
3) Accept the General Disclaimer.
4) Create a new username and password. Under "Contact Information", select "Add New".
5) Select "Individual", then click Continue.
6) Add all of your contact information, including your social security number.
7) Click on "Add Contact Address" and then enter in your address.
8) Check the box to confirm your information and click "Confirm".
9) Your account is now created. You should see a green banner confirming, "Your account has been created successfully. You may now login".
Yes, your Michigan real estate license application expires one year from the date it is received by LARA.
Within the one-year period, you must pass the Michigan state licensing exam and have a sponsoring broker confirm your employment.
Otherwise, you will have to submit a new license application and pay another application fee.
Yes, LARA will waive your license application fee if you served in the armed forces.
To receive the waiver, you must submit a form DD214, DD215, or any other form acceptable to LARA that demonstrates you were separated from service with an honorable character of service or under honorable conditions (general) character of service.
You can request one of these forms by emailing LARA at [email protected] or by calling their office at (517)241-0199.
Yes, if you are a licensed Michigan real estate salesperson who is mobilized for military duty in the U.S. armed forces, you are temporarily exempt from paying the license renewal fee and completing the required continuing education credits.
You must inform LARA and apply for the temporary exemption.
A temporary exemption is valid until 90 days after your release from military duty, but shall not exceed 36 months from your license expiration date.
Mississippi
How to apply to be a real estate agent in Mississippi?
You will need to print out the salesperson license application. If you live in Mississippi, you will use the resident salesperson license application. If you live outside Mississippi, you will use the non-resident salesperson license application. You will submit the application, the license fee, and the supporting materials by mail to the MREC.
Mississippi does not have an online application process. You need to submit a paper application. This is in part because you need to include the recommendation of three real estate owners, and your employing broker has a section to complete.
Missouri
How to apply for a real estate license in Missouri?
Applicants for a Missouri real estate license can submit an application form when they have completed all other eligibility requirements.
Missouri real estate license applicants must use forms provided by the Missouri Real Estate Commission and complete the application forms honestly.
According to Missouri Statute section 324.015 RSMo, effective August 2018, the commission will waive occupational licensing fees – upon request – for two years, beginning with the date the request is approved by the Missouri Real Estate Commission. Military families who wish to request this fee waiver must meet the definition of a military family as defined in Missouri Statute section 324.015.1(4): any active member, veterans, and their spouses are considered military families. Surviving spouses are included in the definition of a military family. This fee waiver-request must be made to the relevant licensing authority, in this case, the Missouri Real Estate Commission.
The MREC then has 30 days to render a decision regarding the request. Each veteran or member of a military family may only receive one waiver per licensing authority.
Montana
How to apply to be a real estate agent in Montana?
You can decide to apply online or with a paper application. An online application will be faster to process.
The Montana Board of Realty Regulation (MBRR) offers a group professional policy through Rice Insurance Services Company (RISC) that costs as low as $168. Another option is to purchase professional liability coverage from an independent carrier as long as your coverage meets the state requirements. You need to provide proof of coverage with your application.
Nebraska
How to apply to be a real estate agent in Nebraska?
The Nebraska Real Estate Commission recommends your salesperson real estate license application be submitted online. You do have the option to download the application and mail it in, but processing takes longer.
The Nebraska Real Estate Commission offers an E&O group plan underwritten by Williams Underwriting Group. The total cost varies by the limits of liability you choose and the month you apply for coverage. For 2022, the amount for the year following just the state mandated limits cost $185.
You also have the option to purchase E&O insurance from any company authorized by the State of Nebraska Department of Insurance. If you buy independent coverage, submit a Certificate of Coverage to the NREC.
Nevada
How to apply to be a real estate agent in Nevada?
Nevada real estate commission does not offer an online application.
Your Nevada real estate salesperson license application is known as form 549. You need to print out this form to apply for your license. You also need essential documents like your original fingerprint verification form, proof of your pre-license education, and your state licensing exam score report. You also need to include the $120 license application fee as a check or money order.
New Hampshire
How to apply for a real estate license in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire currently does not offer the initial salesperson application for online filing. You need to print and complete the application. Once you are licensed, you can renew online.
The New Hampshire Real Estate Commission uses a paper application process. You will need to download and print out the application. The application must have three character affidavits signed by non-relatives, the original passing exam score sheets, and the section filled out by your hiring principal broker. You will submit all of these, along with any required additional documentation related to part four, to the address on the application with a $90 application fee.
New Jersey
How to apply to be a real estate agent in New Jersey?
Your Managing Broker will go to the Online Licensing Services portal to submit the application on your behalf, after you have been hired.
You must provide your broker with your Applicant ID number. This ID number is found on your testing scorecard that proves you successfully passed the state exam. Have all your paperwork ready to go for uploading to make it easy on your broker.
New Mexico
How to apply to be a real estate agent in New Mexico?
New Mexico doesn’t have an online application process.
New Mexico uses a paper application process. You can find the license application form in the Candidate Information Bulletin or the Applications and Forms section of the NMREC website. You will need to print it out. Include with your application your state licensing exam score report, fingerprint documentation, insurance policy coverage certificate, license application fee, and any supporting documents related to Section D. If you're applying for an active license, you are a supervisory qualifying broker and must fill out a section on the application.
The New Mexico Real Estate Commission has a group insurance plan offered through Rice Insurance Services. Receive enrollment information from the NMREC offices or from Rice Insurance Services by calling 800.637.7319. Also, your hiring brokerage may have a group insurance policy. Ask the qualifying broker about their policy and if you are covered under it.
New York
How to apply for a real estate license in New York?
eAccessNY is New York State's online licensing management system.
You will use eAccessNY to schedule your state licensing exam, submit your license application, and renew your real estate license.
Here are the steps you need to take to create your eAccessNY account:
1) Go to the eAccessNY website.
2) Select 'Create My Account', which is the first option.
3) Enter your details and click "Preview" (at the bottom left) to continue.
4) Click "Save" to save your registration.
5) After you save your registration, you will receive an email from the Department of State entitled "Temporary NYDOS Password". The email will include detailed instructions for changing your temporary password to a permanent password.
6) Once you change your temporary password, you can then apply for the state licensing exam.
Please note, your eAccessNY username will be your email address.
Here are the steps you need to take to submit your real estate license application through eAccessNY:
1) Log in to your eAccessNY account and click on "Apply for Initial Salesperson License (qualifying by Exam only)", which is located on the Main Menu page.
2) Click "Next Step" to continue.
3) Enter your details and click "Next Step" to continue.
4) Enter your sponsoring broker's license number (UID#).
5) Find the correct broker license that matches the company name and address. Select that office by clicking on the circle in front of the desired office and address. Then click "Next Step" to continue.
6) Enter all required information and click "Next Step" to continue.
7) Enter the name of the school where you completed the 75-hour NYS real estate salespersons course by using the drop-down menu, and enter your completion date for the course. Then click "Next Step" to continue.
8) Affirm the application by clicking the "I Agree" box at the bottom of the page and click "Next Step" to continue.
9) Enter your credit card details and click "Submit".
10) Print the "Summary of Your Submission" page.
11) Click 'Return to Main Menu".
Once your application is submitted, your sponsoring broker will have to log in to their own eAccessNY account and authorize your application.
If you named your sponsoring broker on your NYS real estate salespersons application, your broker will have to do the following to authorize your application:
1) Your broker must log in to their own eAccessNY account and click on "List of Licenses".
2) Under "Functions", they must click on "Authorize Initial Salesperson License".
3) Choose "Accept" next to your name.
4) Click "Next".
5) An "Authorize Initial License - Summary" page will then appear.
At this point, the Department of State will review your application. If approved, they will mail your license to your sponsoring broker's office.
North Carolina
How to apply for a real estate license in North Carolina?
Before applying for your provisional broker license in North Carolina, you must meet the following requirements:
Be age 18 or older
Be a U.S. citizen, a non-citizen national or a qualified alien under federal law, or have a lawful presence in the U.S. and be authorized to work here in the real estate brokerage field
Have a Social Security number
If you meet the above three requirements, you will need to follow these steps to get your North Carolina provisional broker license:
1. Complete your 75-hour pre-license education requirement or qualify to waive the pre-license education requirement. You may complete this education requirement in a variety of formats, including:
In-person classroom learning
Synchronous distance, or “live online,” instruction via Zoom or similar technologies
Self-paced online courses, sometimes referred to as distance learning
Most applicants prefer the convenience of online courses and also find they can complete the courses more quickly at their own pace than if they attended class in-person.
The 75-hour North Carolina broker pre-licensing course must be completed with at least 80% class attendance and 75% minimum passing score on the end-of-course, proctored examination before submitting your application for a real estate license and applying to take the state licensing exam. You must make your application within three years of successfully completing the course. Your school should automatically provide the North Carolina Real Estate Commission with an Official Certificate of Course Completion, signed by the school’s director.
2. Submit a complete license application. You will need to submit a complete license application to the North Carolina Real Estate Commission, along with the appropriate fee and all required documentation. Applicants are highly encouraged to make their application online. If you prefer to submit a paper application, you will need to send an email to [email protected] or call 919-875-3700.
As part of your application, you will need to obtain, and pay for, a criminal history record report from CriminalRecordCheck.com. When you login to the license application on the Commission’s website,you will be able to choose to “apply for a background check,” as well as access your application.
If you choose to apply for a background check, you can make your request and pay the corresponding fee. Once the criminal background check is complete, the reporting agency will attach its report electronically to your application. You will also receive a copy via email.
The report must be prepared by the agency within six months prior to submitting your application to the Commission. The criminal report must include results from a criminal records search in the state and/or county of every location you have resided for the past seven years prior to making the application for license.
If you resided outside the country for any period of time, the background report must also include a search of criminal records from that particular country or countries.
Depending on the number of places you have resided and the number of names you have had in the past seven years, the cost of the criminal history report can be substantial. Since there are no refunds for the report, it is advised to successfully complete the required 75-hour pre-licensing coursework prior to requesting your criminal history report unless you anticipate an issue with your background check.
Reports involving only in-state searches are typically completed within two to four business days after placing your order, but those involving out-of-state records are likely to take five to seven business days. Searches outside of the U.S. often take two to three weeks to obtain.
If you answered “yes” to any of the three questions regarding criminal offenses, professional license disciplinary action and liens or unpaid judgments, you will need to provide additional documentation, including a detailed account of the action that led to each criminal offense, professional license disciplinary action, lien or unpaid judgment. You will find a drop down box on the online application that allows you to provide any needed explanations. You also have the ability to attach documents.
You will also need to provide a Certified Course Completion Certificate for the 75-hour broker pre-licensing course if your school did not electronically report your successful course completion to the Commission. In either instance, you will need to provide the name of your school, instructor and course information in the application.
You will need to enter your payment information for the non-refundable $100 application fee. Once successfully submitted, your application will enter the review process and you will no longer be able to edit or access it.
3. Schedule your exam. Unless you are exempt from licensure examination requirements, you will receive a notice of exam eligibility via email within two to three days after your application has been accepted. Your notice is valid for up to 180 days.
The Commission contracts with the professional testing service PSI Services LLC (PSI) to schedule and administer the real estate license state exam. Wait 24 hours after receiving your notice of exam eligibility before contacting PSI to schedule your exam. This gives PSI time to upload your information to its system.
You may schedule your exam either by going online at www.psiexams.com, available 24 hours a day, or by calling 800-733-9267, Monday through Friday, between 7:30 a.m. and 10 p.m., or Saturday and Sunday, between 9 a.m. and 5:30 p.m., ET.
In most cases, you will be able to take your exam at the center of your choice within seven days of contacting PSI with your request.
PSI also offers remote online proctoring for the state exam, which is a fast and convenient way to take your exam.
The cost of the state exam is $64 per attempt, paid directly to PSI. You will need to provide payment via Visa, Mastercard, cashier’s check or money order at the time of scheduling. Payment by personal check is not permitted.
4. Pass the state exam. The next step to getting your provisional broker’s license is to pass the state exam. You’ll find that the North Carolina broker’s state licensing exam includes two components: a national section and a state section.
The national portion of the test is made up of 80 multiple-choice questions. You will have a time limit of 120 minutes and must correctly answer 57 out of 80 questions correctly to pass.
There are 40 multiple-choice questions on the state portion of the exam. You will have 90 minutes to complete the 40 multiple-choice questions and must achieve 29 out of 40 questions correct.
If you pass the exam, you will be notified immediately. If you do not pass, you will receive a diagnostic report that shows your strengths and weaknesses, by section.
5. Receive your license and activate it. Your examination results will be reported to the North Carolina Real Estate Commission, which will issue your license within approximately 10 business days as long as there are no character issues. If, however, there are character issues, issuance of your license will take considerably longer.
Your license will be issued as an inactive provisional broker license. You will need to have your chosen broker-in-charge complete a License Activation/Affiliation form and submit it online to the North Carolina Real Estate Commission. This will change your license status to active, but you will still need to be supervised at all times by a broker-in-charge when engaging in real estate brokerage activities.
Within 18 months of your license being issued, you will need to take the required 90 classroom hours of post-licensing required education. Once complete, your provisional status can be removed.
For the quickest service, you should make your application online at the North Carolina Real Estate Commission’s website. Applying via postal mail will cause a delay in review of your application.
Errors and omissions insurance, which is often referred to simply as E&O insurance or even professional liability insurance, helps protect you from lawsuits claiming you made an error while providing professional real estate services.
If a lawsuit is brought against you, it can help cover court costs or settlements. Without E&O insurance, it can get very costly, very quickly for you to try to pay for legal services on your own, even if you are ultimately found not to be at fault.
While errors and omissions insurance is not a requirement in North Carolina, the policy provides critical protection and should be considered.
North Dakota
How to apply to be a real estate agent in North Dakota?
See this chart with the directions for the North Dakota residents and non-residents salesperson license options. You can go online to apply for a resident salesperson license through the North Dakota Real Estate Commission.
You can get E&O insurance from any qualified carrier as long your policy is the equivalent of what is offered by the NDREC group plan. The North Dakota Insurance Department must also authorize the carrier.
The NDREC group plan is available through Rice Insurance Service. Pricing varies by the month you enroll. See the current fees and available coverage.
Yes, North Dakota Real Estate Commission now has an online salesperson license application. You will need to submit some personal information, including your social security number, to create an online account and save your application.
Ohio
How to apply to be a real estate agent in Ohio?
Ohio does not offer online applications for the real estate salesperson license.
To apply, download the application for the salesperson exam and follow the instructions to begin the process. This application also serves as your state license application. You'll need to mail it to the Ohio Department of Commerce, Division of Real Estate and Professional Licensing.
Oklahoma
How to apply for my Oklahoma real estate license?
The Oklahoma Real Estate Commission only uses an online process to manage salesperson applications and license issuing. You will start with the provisional salesperson application using the online application portal. When it's time to issue your license, the commission will email you instructions on how to issue your license online.
Oregon
How to apply for my Oregon real estate license?
The Oregon Real Estate Agency uses an online application portal to manage real estate broker licenses. Start by creating your account and filling out the application.
You may need to upload or send to the Agency:
• An official transcript from your high school or other proof of education
• Proof of age
• Additional documentation for any positive responses on the screening form, like court records, sworn statements, or letters of recommendation
The broker application fee costs $300. Once your application is done, you’ll be assigned an ID number essential for the next steps.
Pennsylvania
How to apply for a real estate license in Pennsylvania?
You can apply for your Pennsylvania real estate salesperson's license online using the state's PALS system.
You must complete the following steps to submit your application:
1) Sign in or create an account at www.pals.pa.gov
2) Once you log in, scroll down to the bottom of your dashboard and click on "Apply for New License", then select "Real Estate Commission" and "Real Estate Salesperson - Reciprocal" or "Real Estate Salesperson - Standard".
3) Answer the survey questions and click on "Next" to open the application.
4) Complete the application, upload the required documents, and click on "Send to Broker".
5) Once you click "Send to Broker", your prospective employing broker will be notified to log onto the PALS account associated with the broker office license. The broker of record will review and approve your application, certifying that they are willing to hire, train, and supervise you.
6) Once your employing broker has approved your application, log back into your PALS account, scroll to the bottom and locate your "My Queue" section. Click on "Review" to re-open the application and complete the legal questions. Click on "Submit" and then review the application before clicking on "Add to Cart". You will now pay for the application and submit it to the Commission.
At this point, the Commission will need one week to review your application and notify you if any additional information is needed.
If your application is approved, the Commission will mail a copy of your license to your employing broker's main office within 7-10 business days.
Rhode Island
How to apply for my Rhode Island real estate license?
The Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation (DBR) encourages you to apply online for your license. You need to gather all of your documentation for uploading into the online system. You can submit a paper application, but it will take more business days for processing.
All Rhode Island real estate professionals must carry Errors and Omissions insurance independently. The coverage must meet the minimum limits set by the Department of Business Regulation. For salespersons, the insurance must be in an amount for each claim of at least $50,000 and in an aggregate amount of at least $150,000. The Rhode Island Association of Realtors maintains a partial list of insurance carriers who provide this type of coverage.
South Carolina
How to apply for a real estate license in South Carolina?
Before starting the process to get your South Carolina real estate salesperson license, you must meet the following requirements and take the following steps.
General Requirements:
1) Must be at least 18 years of age.
2) Must have obtained a high school diploma (or certificate of equivalent).
3) Must be lawfully present and eligible to work in the U.S.
If you meet the above requirement, you will need to take the following five steps to complete the process for being issued a South Carolina real estate salesperson’s license.
Step 1: Successfully complete the 90-Hour South Carolina Real Estate Salesperson Pre-License Courses
The 90-hour pre-license education requirement consists of two courses:
1) 60-hour South Carolina Unit I Sales Course
2) 30-hour South Carolina Unit II: Advanced Real Estate Principles Course
Both the pre-license courses include a proctored final exam, which consists of 100 multiple-choice questions. You will need to achieve a passing grade of at least 70%.
As you pass each course’s final exam, you will receive your Certificate of Completion.
You will be eligible to sit for the state exam once you have successfully completed the 60-hour Unit I course.
The Commission allows you to complete the 30-hour Unit II course following the exam. You will, however, need to successfully pass the Unit II course prior to making your license application.
Step 2: Submit an Exam Application and Schedule Your State Real Estate Salesperson Exam
Once you have completed the 60-hour South Carolina Unit I Sales course and passed the course’s final exam, you can then apply to the South Carolina Real Estate Commission to receive eligibility to take the real estate salesperson state exam.
Your first step will be to submit an Exam Application For Real Estate, either online or via mail. Keep in mind that online applications help to expedite the process. The cost of the Exam Application For Real Estate is $25 (in the form of an Examination administration fee). This fee is paid to the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as you make your exam application.
As part of the exam application, you must submit the following supporting documents:
A copy of your driver's license, state ID, or passport.
A copy of your social security card.
A notarized Verification of Lawful Presence form.
A copy of your Certificate of Completion for the 60-hour South Carolina Unit I Sales course.
A Criminal History Explanation Form, if applicable.
You will have the opportunity to upload your supporting documents online with your exam application.
Once the South Carolina Real Estate Commission approves your exam application, you will be emailed your Examination Eligibility Letter, which will enable you to schedule your state real estate exam.
Your Examination Eligibility Letter is valid for up to one year. If you do not pass the state exam within that one-year window, you must then submit a new exam application to the commission so that you can secure a new Examination Eligibility Letter before taking the exam again.
The South Carolina real estate salespersons state exam must be taken through PSI, the agency contracted by the commission to administer the exam. You can schedule your exam online through PSI’s website, or by phone at (800)733-9267.
PSI offers the exam Monday through Saturday in the following locations: Beaufort, Charleston, Columbia, Greenville, Myrtle Beach, and Charlotte, N.C.
The cost of the state exam is $63 per attempt. Unlike the exam application fee, this fee is paid directly to PSI.
Students must pass the state exam within five years of completing the 60-hour Unit I Sales course.
Step 3: Pass the State Licensing Exam
Your next step is to pass the state real estate salesperson licensing exam. The South Carolina state licensing exam is divided into a national and a state portion.
The national portion includes 80 multiple-choice questions, while the state portion includes 40 multiple-choice questions. You must answer 56 out of the 80 questions correctly (for a score of 70%) on the national portion and 28 out of the 40 questions correctly (70%) on the state portion in order to pass.
Unless you have received an exemption from the national portion of the exam, you are required to pass both portions of the state exam in order to pass the overall exam. If you do not pass one of the portions, you can schedule to retake only that portion for a fee of $55.
You are allowed 120 minutes for the national portion and 80 minutes for the state portion of the exam.
You will receive your exam results at the testing center right after you complete the exam.
Step 4: Apply for Your South Carolina Real Estate Salespersons License
After passing the state exam, it is time to make your application to receive your license. You will get an initial salesperson license application form from PSI after passing the state exam. You must submit your license application, as well as the $50 license application fee and a copy of your state exam score report.
You must also provide a copy of your Certificate of Completion for the 30-hour South Carolina Unit II: Advanced Real Estate Principles course.
Once your application has been received and is approved by the South Carolina Real Estate Commission, your license will be mailed to your managing broker. You will then be able to start practicing as a South Carolina real estate salesperson.
Step 5: Have Your Fingerprints Taken for a Criminal Background Check
All applicants must also get their fingerprints taken as part of a criminal background check before their license application can be approved.
Your fingerprints will be used to conduct a state and federal background check by the State Law Enforcement Division (SLED) and the FBI. The cost of the fingerprints varies per location. You will need to pay this fee, which is in addition to the application fee.
Instructions on how to obtain your fingerprints will be emailed to you by the South Carolina Real Estate Commission once your Exam Application For Real Estate application has been received.
Although the South Carolina Real Estate Commission accepts mailed-in applications, the fastest turnaround can be had by making your application using the online application portal. You will first need to register before you can begin the online application process. You will have the opportunity to upload necessary supporting documents with your application.
Yes, evidence of holding a juris doctor degree or bachelor of law degree can substitute for completion of 60 hours of classroom instruction in the fundamentals of real estate principles and practices as well as the 30 hours of coursework in advanced real estate principles. A transcript can be accepted and reviewed to authorize you to apply for real estate salesperson examination if you wish to get your real estate license.
The South Carolina Real Estate Commission does not recognize military training itself as a substitute for the coursework required for being issued a real estate salesperson license. The education requirement must be fulfilled in one of three ways:
Completing the 60-hour Unit I course requirement and the 30-hour Unit II course requirement, providing a certificate of completion to the commission for each.
Holding a law degree or obtaining a bachelors or master’s degree with a major in real estate. An official transcript is required.
Being a non-resident and current real estate license holder, either active or inactive, from another state.
You can be considered exempt from the pre-license education course requirements if you hold a Juris Doctor or Bachelor of Law degree, or hold a baccalaureate degree or masters degree with a major in Real Estate.
You will need to upload your official transcript from an accredited college or university.Within one year of passing the state exam, you must provide verification that you are sponsored by a broker-in-charge and apply for a sales license, which will be mailed to the broker-in-charge.
If you already hold a Juris Doctor or Bachelor of Law degree, you do not need to meet the 90-hour course requirement in order to apply for a real estate license. Also, an attorney-at-law, who acts within the scope of his or her duties in legally representing a client or owner is not required to have a real estate salesperson license.
Errors and omissions insurance is the same as professional liability insurance. Like all insurance, it is meant to reduce risk. In this case, its purpose is to protect you against potential lawsuits claiming that you made an error while providing professional real estate services.
This type of insurance can be valuable for covering court costs or paying settlements, should legal action be taken against you. Without E&O insurance, a lawsuit could potentially become very expensive, very fast, and even lead to financial ruin. Even if you are found not to be at fault, you will need to pay legal fees on your own.
Errors and omissions insurance is not required for real estate salespersons in South Carolina, but you still may want to consider buying a policy to mitigate risk.
South Dakota
How to apply for my real estate license in South Dakota?
At this time, the South Dakota Real Estate Commission does not have an online application for initial licensing. You can download and print the application from the website, but you will need to mail it in for processing.
Gather all the documents and mail them to the South Dakota Real Estate Commission within 60 days of passing the last portion of the licensing exam.
South Dakota offers a group policy through RISC. The fee varies based on which month you enroll, with January 2021 charging $187. You have the option to find a private carrier, but you need to provide the SDREC with a certificate of coverage. The limits must match the minimum limits of coverage defined by the SDREC.
Tennessee
How to apply for a real estate license in Tennessee?
The equivalent license to a real estate sales license is an affiliate broker license in Tennessee. Tennessee law does not license real estate salespersons, as the profession is referred to in most other states. Entry-level real estate licensees are considered affiliate brokers.
You will need to show proof that you have acquired errors and omissions insurance when you apply for your affiliated broker license. Errors and omissions insurance, which is sometimes referred to as E&O insurance or even professional liability insurance, helps protect you from lawsuits claiming you made an error while providing professional real estate services. This insurance is critical and can help cover court costs or settlements, if a lawsuit were to be brought against you. It can be very costly for you to try to pay for legal services on your own, even if you are ultimately found not to be at fault. You will be required to continue coverage while you have an active affiliate broker or broker license in Tennessee.
All applicants for an affiliate broker license are required to submit an eligibility verification form. If you are claiming U.S. citizenship, you have the option of providing your social security number as part of your application in place of one of the following forms of identification with your application:
• Valid Tennessee driver’s license or photo ID
• Valid driver’s license or photo ID from another state with insurance requirements at least as strict as Tennessee
• Official birth certificate issued by a U.S. state or territory
• U.S. government-issued certified birth certificate
• Valid, unexpired U.S. passport
• U.S. certificate of birth abroad
• Report of birth abroad of a U.S. citizen
• Certificate of citizenship
• Certificate of naturalization
• U.S. citizen ID card
• Any successor document as listed at Tenn. Code Ann 4-58-103(c)(4)-(9)
The Tennessee Real Estate Commission carefully examines all applications for affiliate brokers. If you have been convicted of, pled no contest to, pled guilty to or been granted first offender treatment upon being charged with any criminal offense other than a traffic violation, you can expect your application to be especially scrutinized. The same holds true if you have been disciplined in conjunction with other professional licenses you have held.
If you have a history of any of the above, you can request a preliminary decision from the Tennessee Real Estate Commission prior to investing in time and dollars for pre-licensing education and the exam. This request can be made by completing the Application for Decision Regarding Prior Criminal Conviction(s) and/or Disciplinary Sanction(s) and submitting it to the Commission with the required documentation, as outlined on the form.
Texas
How to apply for a real estate license in Texas?
You have the option to submit your Texas real estate agent application online or by mail. TREC recommends that you file your license application online using their Online Licensing Service. Online applications are processed faster and are not subject to a $20 paper filing fee.
The first step is to submit an inactive license application.
The preferred method is online since the processing time will be quicker and you only have to pay the standard application fee.
To submit your application online, you will have to do the following:
• Apply online using TREC’s Online Licensing Service.
• If this is your first time submitting a TREC application, you will have to create a free account.
• Before submitting your application, you will have to pay the $205 license application fee.
You also have the option of submitting a paper application. A paper application will require the following:
• Complete the ISL-8 application.
• You will have to pay an additional $20 paper filing fee on top of the $205 standard license application fee.
• The processing time will be longer compared to an online submission.
Your license application will be open for 12 months. Within the 12 months, you must complete the 180 hours of qualifying education, get your fingerprints taken, and pass the state exam.
For this reason, we recommend waiting to submit your license application until you are almost finished with the 180-hour pre-license course. This will give you plenty of time to get your fingerprints taken and pass the state exam.
Once you receive your inactive license and find a sponsoring broker, you can then apply for an active license.
Once you submit your license application, you can track its status using TREC’s Application Status Tracker.
Utah
How to apply for my Utah real estate license?
You will need to follow these steps to apply for your sales agent license:
1- Complete the 120-hour Utah pre-license education course
2- Schedule your Utah sales agent exam
3- Pass the Utah sales agent exam
4- Apply for your Utah sales agent license with the Utah Division of Real Estate
5- Submit your fingerprints for a background check
6- Track your license status
Utah uses an online portal to manage real estate licenses. You'll need to create an account to start the licensing process. The UDRE publishes a sales agent checklist of everything you will need for the application.
Vermont
How to apply for my real estate license in Vermont?
The Office of Professional Regulation administers the real estate application and licensure process. The OPR only accepts online applications. Go to the website and create an account to start applying for your Vermont salesperson’s license.
Virginia
How to apply for a real estate license in Virginia?
You must apply for your Virginia real estate salespersons license by mailing a completed Salesperson License Application to the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation.
Before you submit your application, please ensure the following:
• Your application is being submitted within one year of the date you originally took the state exam.
• You successfully passed the state exam.
• Your fingerprints will not be older than 45 days from the date the Board receives your application.
Your application must be include the following:
• The $170 application fee (payable using a credit card, check, or money order).
• If you are seeking an active real estate license, you must complete sections 12 & 13 of the application, and have your sponsoring broker complete section 18.
• If you are applying for a Virginia license via reciprocity: a Letter of Good Standing dated within 60 days from each jurisdiction where you hold or held a real estate license.
• If you are applying for a Virginia license via reciprocity: a certified Certificate of Completion for any real estate licensing course you completed that will allow the Board to waive their 60-hour pre-license education requirement.
• A Disciplinary Action Reporting Form and all required attachments if you have been subject to a disciplinary action taken by any local, state or national regulatory body.
You must mail your application and all supporting documents to the address at the top of the application.
Washington
How to apply for a real estate license in Washington?
For the fastest turnaround, you will need to make your application online. That process begins with setting up a SecureAccess Washington (SAW) account. Doing so will not only allow you to submit your application and any corresponding documentation online, but to manage your license online once it has been issued.
Errors and omissions insurance is also known as professional liability insurance. Its purpose is to protect you against lawsuits claiming that you made an error while providing professional real estate services.
This type of insurance can help cover court costs or settlements should legal action be taken against you. Without E&O insurance, it could potentially become very expensive, very fast. You would need to pay for legal services on your own, even if you are found not to be at fault.
Errors and omissions insurance is not a requirement for real estate brokers in Washington, but owning a policy should be considered because of the important protection it can provide.
West Virginia
How to apply for a real estate license in West Virginia?
The West Virginia Real Estate Commission (WVREC) has the option of an online application or a paper application for your salesperson license. The online application is the fastest and easiest way to initiate the process. You’ll need with the application two character recommendations from property owners and the signature of your hiring broker.
Wisconsin
How to apply for a real estate license in Wisconsin?
License applications should be submitted online through the Online Licensure Application System (OLAS). A paper version of the license application can also be mailed in.As part of the license application, you must include the $75 license application fee, a copy of your Certificate of Completion for the 72-hour WI Real Estate Salesperson course, and a copy of your score report from PearsonVUE, which shows that you have passed the state licensing exam.Nonresident applicants are also required to submit aForm #813 for Irrevocable Consent for Nonresidents.
Wyoming
How to apply for my real estate license in Wyoming?
The Wyoming Real Estate Commission doesn’t have an online application process.
You will receive salesperson license application instructions with your score report. Follow these instructions to complete your license application. Your application and documents can be emailed to [email protected] or mailed to the Wyoming Real Estate Commission.
Wyoming has a partnership with Rice Insurance Services Center to administer group E&O coverage. You have the option to purchase private E&O coverage, but you must submit a certificate of coverage to the WREC showing it meets their specifications of coverage.
