How to Become a Real Estate Agent in Florida

Candidates for a career in Florida's real estate market will discover a variety of resources that will simplify their entrance into this field and boost their professional advancement. For instance, Florida maintains a Mutual Recognition Agreement with 11 states that simplifies the licensing process for applicants from these states. The member states are Alabama, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Mississippi, Nebraska, Oklahoma and Tennessee. Also, membership in real estate organizations, such as the Florida Association of Realtors, ensures access to professional support from agents and brokers with considerable experience in the industry.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Ensure that you meet the initial requirements. You must be at least 18 years old and hold a high school diploma in order to apply for a real estate license.

2. Complete a pre-licensing course. The course of study approved by the Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC) consists of 63 classroom hours. Candidates can apply for a license within two years of taking the course.

3. Determine whether you qualify for a correspondence pre-licensing course. Applicants who are unable to attend the class in person due to a permanent disability may qualify you to take the course at home.

4. Submit an application. Candidates must submit the application for a license before they can register for the licensing class. Applicants must also submit electronic fingerprints and an application fee.

5. Understand the Mutual Recognition Agreement. Under the agreement, out-of-state applicants who are licensed real estate agents or brokers in their resident states can apply for a license in Florida. These candidates need only pass the law portion of the exam.

6. Achieve the passing grade. Candidates must pass the Real Estate Sales Associate exam with a grade of 75 or better. Applicants taking the Florida Real Estate Law Exam need a grade of 30 or higher.

7. Activate your license. Candidates can submit a RE-2050-1 form at the examination site to expedite the receipt of an active license upon passing the exam. Otherwise, candidates can send the form to the Division of Real Estate in the Florida Department of Business Professional Regulation.

8. Complete a post-licensing course. To remain active, real estate agents must complete a post-licensing course approved by the FREC before their license expires. This course consists of at least 45 classroom hours.

9. Visit the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation for a list of approved courses and schools (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• Candidates cannot use a real estate sales associate license obtained in a different state to apply for a real estate broker's license in Florida. Applicants must pass Florida's sales associate exam before applying to take the broker's exam.

Resources

• Approved Real Estate Courses and Schools

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