How to Get a Real Estate License in Florida

Are you curious about how to become a real estate agent in Florida? It’s a straightforward process that includes taking some pre-licensing classes, passing an exam and a background check, and completing an application.You don’t need a college degree to become a real estate agent. In fact, if you keep your eye on the ball, you can complete the licensing process in just a few months. Before you know it, you’ll be showing mansions in Miami or townhomes in Tampa.

Here’s how to get a real estate license in Florida.

How to Become a Real Estate Agent in Florida

To work as a real estate agent in Florida, you must be licensed by the state and have a real estate broker oversee your work. Here are the nitty-gritty details on the FL real estate licensing process to help you get started in this exciting, rewarding career.

 

Florida real estate license prerequisites

You must meet several basic requirements to become licensed to sell real estate in Florida.

• Be at least 18 years old
• Possess a United States Social Security Number
• Have a high school diploma or equivalent (GED)

If you can check off all three requirements, you can enroll in your pre-licensing courses today.

 

Florida real estate license education requirements

The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) requirements include showing proof that you completed a 63-hour course from a state-approved real estate school.

Do your research before choosing a Florida real estate school. Make sure you select one with a solid reputation for providing quality education. After all, the information you learn from these classes will be used to pass the licensing exam – and help you serve your clients as a real estate agent.

Another factor to consider when choosing a real estate school is the course format. Some real estate schools offer at-your-own-pace online courses. However, some students learn best in a traditional classroom. If you want to learn from a live instructor without leaving your home, you can choose a livestream format. It’s worth noting that some real estate schools in Florida offer classes in both English and Spanish.

 

Background check for Florida real estate license

You must complete a background check before continuing the licensing process in Florida. It’s suggested that you complete the fingerprinting process days before you submit your licensing application.

Applicants can visit a LiveScan location to be fingerprinted. Bring two forms of ID to your fingerprinting appointment. Expect to pay between $50 and $80 – depending on the location.

The DBPR also offers fingerprinting services at their headquarters in Tallahassee for those applying for a license regulated by the department. You can also make an appointment to be fingerprinted at a Gold Coast School location.

For more information about fingerprinting and background checks, visit the DBPR website.

 

Florida real estate license application

After you submit your fingerprints, you can fill out the real estate sales associate licensing application. The process begins by creating an online account with the DBPR. Once you have an account, search for the online application.

The application asks for your legal name (make sure you use the name found on your government-issued ID). You’ll also submit your social security number and answer questions about your background.

The current application fee is $39.37. Military members and their spouses may be eligible for a fee waiver.

After you have successfully passed the background check and the DBPR approves your application, you can finally sign up to take the Florida real estate licensing exam.

 

Licensing exam for Florida real estate license

Pearson Vue administers the Florida real estate licensing exam. You can schedule the exam online or by calling 1-888-204-6230. The exam costs $36.75.

Pearson Vue’s Candidate Information Booklet is a helpful resource that answers specific questions about Florida real estate license requirements.

Here are some of the highlights:

• Bring two forms of valid signature identification, one of which is government-issued. (Your name and address must match what was submitted on your application.)
• Bring your Florida Division of Real Estate Authorization Notice and Certificate of Pre-licensing Education Completion.
• Report to the test center thirty minutes before your scheduled examination.
• The exam lasts 3 ½ hours.
• You must receive a 75/100 or better to pass the exam.
• You will receive the results of your exam immediately after completion.

Please note that remote online proctoring is available. Visit the Candidate Information Booklet to learn more.