Comprehensive Guide to Florida Real Estate Licensing: Step-By-Step Educational Instructions

Disclaimer: Prices and guidelines are subject to change. Please refer to official sources for the most current information.

Florida offers several career paths in real estate—Sales Associate, Broker, and Instructor. Each has its own set of educational and licensing requirements. Here is a detailed guide to navigate each pathway.

Real Estate Associate Requirements:

  • Complete 63-hour Pre-Licensing Course:
    • Enroll in a Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC)-approved 63-hour pre-licensing course.
    • Note: Your course completion remains valid for two years for licensure purposes.
  • Submit Application, Fee, and Fingerprints:
    • Submit an application along with the required fee and fingerprints to the State of Florida.
  • Pass State Exam:
    • Successfully pass the Real Estate Sales Associate Examination.
    • Optionally, pass the Florida Real Estate Law Exam with a grade of 30 or higher.
  • Activate License:
    • Use the DBPR RE 11 form or let a broker activate your license online.
  • Complete 45-Hour Post-Licensing Course:
    • Finish a FREC-approved 45-hour post-licensing course before your initial license expires.

Real Estate Broker Requirements:

  • 24 Months Active Experience:
    • Have an active sales associate license for at least 24 months within the five years prior to your broker application.
    • For out-of-state experience, provide license history certification.
  • 72-Hour Pre-Licensing Course:
    • Complete a 72-hour FREC-approved pre-licensing course for brokers.
  • Submit Application, Fee, and Fingerprints:
    • As above.
  • Pass Broker Examination:
    • Score 75 or higher in the Florida Real Estate Broker Examination.
  • Activate License:
    • Use the DBPR RE 13 Broker Transaction form to activate your license.
  • 60-Hour Post-Licensing Course:
    • Complete this before your initial broker license expires.

For additional details, consult the Department of Business & Professional Regulation and Florida Realtors.

5 Steps to Get Your Real Estate License in Florida:

  • Basic Requirements:
    • Be at least 18, hold a high school diploma or equivalent, and have a U.S. Social Security number.
  • Pre-License Course:
    • Take a 63-hour pre-license course and pass the exam with a score of 70% or above.
  • Application and Background Check:
    • Apply to take the Florida real estate exam, submit fingerprints for a background check. The typical fee for the application is $83.75.
  • State Exam:
    • Pass the state exam with a score of 75 or higher. The exam fee is $36.75.
  • Affiliate with Broker and Join Realtor Board:
    • Your license isn’t active until affiliated with a broker. You may also join your local Realtor board.

For more information, consult the official guidelines and the Florida Realtors website.