Do you need a college degree for real estate in Florida? The good news is – no, you don’t. Learn more about the educational requirements for becoming a Florida real estate agent and why a college degree isn’t necessary to start a career in the industry.
Key Takeaways
- No College Degree Required – A college degree is not necessary to become a real estate agent in Florida. The only educational requirements are a high school diploma or GED and a 63-hour pre-licensing course from a state-approved real estate school.
- Step-by-Step Licensing Process – To get licensed, applicants must complete the required coursework, pass a background check, submit an application to the DBPR, pass the real estate exam, and choose a broker to work under.
- Affordability and Flexibility – Becoming a real estate agent is significantly more affordable and faster than earning a college degree. The entire process can be completed in a few months, costing between $750 and $960, making it a flexible career option.
- Ongoing Education and Career Growth – While a degree isn’t required, continuing education is essential. Florida agents must complete post-license and continuing education courses. Additional certifications, such as the Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist™ (CLHMS) or Certified Negotiation Expert (CNE), can enhance career opportunities.
Understanding Florida’s Real Estate Educational Requirements
As in every other state, you need a real estate license to work as an agent in Florida. While a college degree isn’t required to earn your license, there are prerequisites you must check off before starting the licensing process. The licensing process also includes coursework that you’ll complete from a state-approved real estate school.
Here are the details.
What are the basic requirements to become a real estate agent in Florida?
To get a Florida real estate license, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent (GED) and be at least 18 years old.
It’s important to note that you’re not required to be a U.S. citizen to earn a real estate license. However, noncitizen applicants must have legal permanent residency and a valid U.S. Social Security number.
Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining Your Florida Real Estate License
Here’s a quick guide on becoming an agent in Florida.
Step 1: Complete the mandatory 63-hour pre-licensing course
The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) requires that applicants complete a 63-hour course from a state-approved real estate school.
You can take your courses at your own pace online, via livestream, or in person, and some Florida schools offer classes in English and Spanish.
Are there any real estate licensing course exemptions? Yes! You don’t have to take the 63-hour class if you are a Florida attorney or have a four-year degree (or higher) in real estate from an accredited institution of higher education.
Step 2: Pass a background check
Before proceeding with the licensing process in Florida, you must submit fingerprints to complete a background check. It’s recommended that you get fingerprinted a few days before submitting your licensing application.
Applicants can get fingerprinted at a LiveScan location, the DBPR headquarters in Tallahassee, or Gold Coast Schools.
Step 3: Submit your application to the DBPR
After you submit your fingerprints, create an account with the DBPR and complete the real estate sales associate licensing application. The application should take only minutes; the current fee is $39.37.
Step 4: Pass the Florida real estate salesperson exam.
Even though a college degree isn’t required for a real estate license, you need to know enough about real estate law and regulations to pass the licensing exam. Choose your real estate school carefully, and zero in on schools that offer review sessions and exam prep materials.
Pearson Vue administers the Florida real estate licensing exam, and remote online proctoring is available. The test is 3 ½ hours long and costs $36.75. Before taking the test, you must submit your Florida Division of Real Estate Authorization Notice and Certificate of Pre-licensing Education Completion.
Step 5: Choose a broker
Real estate agents must work under the supervision of a broker, an experienced agent who has earned an advanced license. Check to see if your real estate school hosts career fairs to connect you with brokerages hiring in your area.
Advantages of a Real Estate Career Without a College Degree
While there certainly are benefits to higher education, those who choose to attend real estate school without first earning a degree have several advantages.
1. Flexibility and autonomy in your professional life
A college degree typically takes at least four years to complete, while you can complete the entire process to earn your real estate license in Florida in two or three months. Most people complete their real estate coursework while working a full-time job.
Since there’s a low bar for entry into real estate, you won’t be out much time and energy if the industry doesn’t work out for you.
2. Real estate school is more affordable than college
While there are costs associated with getting your real estate license, the process is much more affordable than obtaining a college degree. Plan on spending between $750 and $960 on the entire process, with real estate school being the most expensive component. Some real estate schools offer affordable financing options.
3. Continuous learning opportunities
As a Florida real estate agent, you’ll have plenty of opportunities for continuous learning and skill development. In fact, you’re required to complete 45 hours of Post-License education prior to your first license renewal deadline. After your first year, you must complete 14 hours of continuing education each year to keep your license current.
Exploring Further Educational Opportunities
Successful agents seek out additional professional development opportunities to improve their skills. Here are a few certifications to consider once you’ve completed the licensing process.
Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist™ (CLHMS)
The Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist™ (CLHMS) designation from the Institute for Luxury Home Marketing is the premier credential for real estate agents entering the luxury market.
You’ll receive expert-led training on securing high-end listings and marketing luxury properties. The program includes a one-year membership with $3,000 in exclusive benefits, including:
- Free CE courses via McKissock Learning
- Monthly Luxury Market Reports
- A complimentary ACESocial account for automated marketing
- Access to The Institute Network for luxury agent networking
This certification equips agents with the skills and resources to excel in luxury real estate.
Real Estate Negotiation Institute
The Real Estate Negotiation Institute (RENI) is a leading organization dedicated to enhancing negotiation skills for real estate professionals. RENI offers specialized training and certifications, such as the Certified Negotiation Expert (CNE) designation, empowering agents with advanced strategies to secure better deals, build client trust, and stand out in the industry.
Through expert-led courses, agents learn effective negotiation techniques, communication skills, and market-specific strategies to maximize value for buyers and sellers. RENI’s programs give real estate professionals a competitive edge in negotiations, improving client satisfaction and overall success.
Property Management Certification Training
What are the potential career paths within the real estate industry beyond sales? Licensed real estate agents have several career options. Learn about property management by enrolling in Gold Coast Schools’ one-day Property Management Course. Taught by local instructors, the course will give the skills needed to be a successful property manager in Florida as the demand for rental properties continues to climb.
Real estate doesn’t require a college degree, but the industry offers many opportunities for continuing education, professional development, and advanced training. Go-getters who embrace these educational opportunities, set goals, and work with seasoned mentors can earn a great living.
Get started today with your real estate pre-licensing courses with Gold Coast Schools, and you can earn your license before the beginning of the next season!