Have you been picturing a new career with flexible hours and unlimited earning potential? Becoming a real estate agent in Florida could provide the fresh start you seek, and the process of becoming an agent might be faster than you think. You have the drive and the ambition; now, all you need is a plan.
This guide answers the question, “how long does it take to get a real estate license in Florida?” and lays out everything you need to know to get started in this exciting career.
Key Takeaways
- Complete the 63-Hour Course: You must complete a 63-hour pre-licensing course from a state-approved institution, such as Gold Coast Schools.
- Pass the State Exam: After your course, you must pass the Florida real estate license exam with a score of at least 75%.
- A Realistic Timeline: Most students can complete the entire licensing process in about one to three months, depending on the course format and study habits.
- Age and Education Requirements: Although you can begin your education earlier, you must be at least 18 years old and hold a high school diploma or its equivalent to be licensed.
- Start Your Career: Once you pass the exam, you need to join a real estate brokerage to activate your license and begin representing clients.
Step-by-Step Guide: Obtaining a Florida Real Estate License
You must hold a Florida real estate license to work as an agent in the Sunshine State. Getting your Florida real estate license is a straightforward process. Here’s a clear path from starting your education to launching your new career, along with a realistic timeline for each phase.
Step 1: Meet the basic requirements
Before you can enroll in a course, you need to meet the state’s qualifications.
- Be at least 18 years old
- Hold a high school diploma or equivalent
- Have a U.S. Social Security Number
Step 2: Complete your Florida real estate pre-licensing course
The state requires you to complete a 63-hour pre-licensing course from an approved real estate school. This is where you’ll build the foundation for your entire career.
- Timeline: 1 week to 2 months
Step 3: Complete your background check
The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) requires all applicants to be fingerprinted for a background check.
- Timeline: Schedule your appointment a few days before submitting your application. Results can take up to 5 days to process.
Step 4: Submit your license application
With your course and background check underway, you can complete the Florida Real Estate Sales Associate application online.
- Timeline: The DBPR processing time can vary, but planning for 1-4 weeks is a safe bet.
Step 5: Pass the Florida Real Estate Sales Associate Exam
Once your application is approved, you’ll receive an Authorization to Test. You can then schedule your exam with Pearson VUE.
- Timeline: The exam is 3.5 hours. If you don’t pass, you can schedule a retake.
Step 6: Join a real estate brokerage
After passing the exam, you must join a brokerage to activate your license.
- Timeline: This process can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the scope of your research and the complexity of your interview process.
What Are the Real Estate Pre-Licensing Education Requirements in Florida?
Your journey begins with completing a 63-hour pre-licensing course from a state-approved real estate school. This course is designed to teach you everything you need to know to pass the licensing exam and practice real estate legally and successfully in Florida. After completing the course, you must pass the state licensing exam with a score of 75% or higher.
Gold Coast Schools, Florida’s most tenured real estate school, offers flexible learning options to fit your schedule:
- In-Person Classes: Structured, hands-on learning at one of our six campus locations
- Livestream Classes: Real-time instruction from our expert instructors from the comfort of your home
- Online, Self-Paced Courses: Complete flexibility to study whenever and wherever you want
While not required, many students find that taking an exam prep course provides the extra confidence needed to pass on the first try.
Comparison of online vs. in-person pre-licensing courses
Choosing the right course format depends on your learning style and schedule.
- Online Courses: Offer maximum flexibility, allowing you to study at your own pace. This is ideal if you’re balancing a job or family commitments.
- In-Person/Livestream Courses: Provide a structured schedule and direct access to instructors and peers. This format is great for networking and real-time feedback.
How Fast Can You Get Your Florida Real Estate License?
So, what is the fastest way to get a real estate license in Florida? The timeline depends heavily on the course format you choose and how quickly you move through each step.
Here is a breakdown of what you can expect:
- Course Completion: An in-person or livestream course can be completed in as little as one week. A self-paced online course offers flexibility, but dedicated students can also finish it quickly.
- Exam Scheduling: After completing the course, you must schedule your exam through Pearson VUE. Availability can vary, so it’s wise to book your spot as soon as you receive your authorization.
- Application Processing: The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) must process your application. This can take a few weeks, depending on their volume.
Considering all these factors, it’s possible to obtain your license in under a month if you’re focused and everything aligns perfectly. However, a more realistic timeline for most people is between one and three months.
What Is the Expected Starting Salary for Florida Real Estate Agents?
As a real estate agent, your income is typically commission-based, meaning your earning potential is unlimited. While there’s no fixed starting salary, your hard work directly translates into financial rewards.
- Average Earnings: According to a 2025 survey of Gold Coast Schools alumni, 58% of full-time agents report earning between $100,000 and $200,000 per year.
- Commission Structures: When you join a brokerage, you’ll agree on a commission split. Some brokerages offer a higher split in exchange for fewer support services, while others provide extensive training, marketing, and mentorship for a different split.
- Experience Matters: Your income will grow as you build your client base and gain experience. Agents with a strong network and proven track record often earn significantly more.
Career Outlook for Florida Real Estate Agents
Florida’s real estate market is one of the most dynamic in the country. The state’s growing population, beautiful weather, and diverse communities create consistent demand for housing. This translates into a promising career outlook for real estate agents.
With a Florida real estate license, you can explore various career paths beyond being a residential agent, including:
- Commercial real estate
- Property management
- Real estate consulting
- Becoming a broker and opening your own firm
At Gold Coast Schools, we support your career at every stage, from pre-licensing education to post-licensing and continuing education and professional development.
Frequently Asked Questions About Florida Real Estate Licensing
Can you get your real estate license at 16 in Florida?
No, you must be at least 18 years old to obtain a license in Florida. However, you can begin taking your pre-licensing courses before you turn 18, as long as you complete the exam within two years of finishing your course.
What are the costs associated with getting licensed?
The total cost to get your Florida real estate license can be as low as $420, but it’s wise to budget around $750. This includes your pre-licensing course, exam fees, application fees, and the cost of a background check.
How does experience level affect salary expectations?
Experience plays a major role in a real estate agent’s income. New agents may take time to build their client base, while seasoned agents with established networks and reputations often earn well over six figures. The more transactions you close, the higher your income potential.
Ready To Start Your Real Estate Career?
Setting realistic goals is the first step toward a successful career. While it’s possible to get your license quickly, it’s more important to absorb the material and prepare thoroughly for the exam. With expert instructors and comprehensive exam prep, Gold Coast Schools has helped over a million students launch their careers since 1970.
We’re here to support you on your journey to financial independence. Get started today and take the first step toward a rewarding career in Florida real estate!
Disclaimer: This guide is for general informational purposes only, based on a September 2025 survey of Gold Coast Schools alumni and publicly available industry sources. While Gold Coast Schools strives for accuracy, we make no guarantees regarding the completeness, reliability, or applicability of the information. Earnings and outcomes vary widely based on factors like location, experience, and market conditions and should not be considered guarantees. This guide does not constitute professional advice. Users should consult additional sources for personalized guidance.