You do not have to be a Florida resident to apply for or obtain a real estate license in Florida. In addition, you do not need to be a U.S. citizen to apply for or obtain a real estate license in FL. However, if you aren’t a U.S. citizen (or naturalized citizen), you must be a legal permanent resident with a social security number. Here’s what you need to know about getting a noncitizen real estate license in Florida.
Key Takeaways
- Neither Florida residency nor U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a real estate license in Florida.
- While being a U.S. citizen is not obligatory, noncitizen applicants must hold legal permanent residency and possess a valid U.S. social security number to pursue a real estate license in Florida.
- Citizenship prerequisites for real estate licensing vary among states.
Can You Get Your Real Estate License as a Noncitizen in Florida?
Each state has its own real estate licensing requirements. Noncitizens can earn a license to help clients buy and sell real estate in Florida. However, you must have a U.S. social security number to apply.
In addition, you do not have to be a resident of Florida to apply for or obtain a real estate license.
Florida Real Estate Licensing Requirements
Now that you understand that Florida residency and U.S. citizenship are not requirements to become a real estate agent in Florida, you may wonder how to get your Florida RE license. Here’s a brief overview of the requirements.
Related article: The Cost of Becoming an Agent in Florida
Florida pre-licensing education requirements overview
You must have a high school diploma (or equivalent) to be a real estate agent in Florida.
You must also show that you completed a 63-hour pre-license course for Florida sales associates to take your real estate exam. The course is good for two years from the date of completion. The course must be completed at a state-approved real estate school.
If you hold a 4-year degree in real estate, you may be exempt from the pre-license education requirement. You must submit an original certified transcript with your license application to receive this exemption.
Florida citizenship and visa requirements overview
Who can earn a real estate license in Florida? Here’s an overview of citizenship and visa requirements.
Legal permanent residency vs. citizenship requirements
There are two main ways to become a U.S. citizen. You can be born here, or you can become a naturalized citizen. However, you must first be a legal permanent resident before applying to become a naturalized citizen.
Legal permanent residents have legal permission to reside in the U.S. They are also given a green card — that allows them to be eligible for employment and apply for a Social Security card.
To become a real estate agent in Florida, you must be a U.S. citizen, a naturalized citizen, or a legal permanent resident with a green card. In addition, you must have a social security number.
How to become a legal permanent resident
Becoming a legal permanent U.S. resident is a lengthy bureaucratic process. You’ll need a sponsor and substantial evidence of your status, employment, or relationship. The process generally takes more than a year.
It’s important to note that you cannot become a Florida real estate agent until you are a legal permanent resident with a green card and social security number.
FAQ: Can you use ITIN number to apply for a Florida real estate license?
You cannot use your ITIN number to apply for a Florida real estate license. The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation website states you must have a U.S. social security number to apply for a real estate license. Noncitizens authorized to work in the US by the Department of Homeland Security can get an SSN as long as they are in the country legally and can show proof of age, identity, and immigration status.
Background check requirements overview
A background check is part of the real estate licensing process. You must submit your fingerprints using a Livescan Service Provider immediately after submitting your application for Florida licensure.
Do All States Have The Same Citizenship Requirements to Obtain a Real Estate License?
No, not all states have the same citizenship requirements to become a real estate agent. Most applicants are required to be U.S. citizens or legal aliens. Some (like Florida) require a social security number. And still others require state residency.
While you don’t need to be a U.S. citizen to get your license in Florida, the process is more complicated for noncitizens. If you have questions on your eligibility, please contact Gold Coast Schools. We offer Florida real estate classes in English and Spanish, in classroom, livestream, and online formats.