Contents
Hello, my name is Morgan and I’ve been a realtor for 15 years in NYC. Today, I’m here to guide you through the process of becoming a real estate agent in Florida. The Sunshine State offers a thriving real estate market and getting your license there could be the start of a rewarding career.
Step 1: Take the pre-license course
The first step to becoming a real estate agent in Florida is to take the pre-license course. This is a 63-hour course that covers topics such as real estate laws, principles and practice, and real estate math. You can take this course online or in a classroom at a real estate school or at Realtor associations and boards statewide. You can find approved providers of this course on the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation’s website.
| Course | Hours | Topics Covered |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-license Course | 63 | Real estate laws, principles and practice, real estate math |
Step 2: Apply to take the Florida real estate exam
Once you’ve completed the pre-license course, you’ll need to apply to take the Florida real estate exam. This involves submitting an application to the Department of Business and Professional Regulations (DBPR) and having your fingerprints taken for a background check. You can apply for the exam through DBPR’s website.
| Process | Cost |
|---|---|
| Fingerprinting | $50 to $80 |
| Exam Application Fee | $83.75 |
Step 3: Take and pass the state real estate exam
After your application has been approved, you’ll receive an email notification from Pearson VUE, the company that administers the exam. This email will include your nine-digit Candidate ID number, which you’ll need to sign up for the exam. The exam tests your knowledge of real estate principles and Florida real estate law. You can register for the exam through Pearson VUE’s website.
Step 4: Affiliate with a broker
After passing the exam, you’ll need to affiliate with a broker. This broker will activate your license and provide you with the necessary practical experience and mentorship as you start your career. It’s important to choose a broker that aligns with your career goals and offers a supportive environment for new agents. You can find a list of licensed brokers on the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation’s website.
Step 5: Join a local Realtor association/board
The final step to becoming a real estate agent in Florida is to join a local Realtor association or board. Once you join, you’ll officially be a Realtor and a member of the Florida Realtors state association and the National Association of Realtors. Local board dues and offerings vary, so you may want to explore your options. You can find your local association on the Florida Realtors website.
Once your application is approved, you’ll be a licensed real estate agent in Florida. Congratulations on your new career! Now, it’s time to start building your business. This might involve developing a marketing plan, networking with potential clients, and continuing to learn and grow in your new profession.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Real Estate License in Florida?
Becoming a real estate professional in Florida requires both time and money. In most cases, the total cost to get a real estate license in Florida should be under $400. Here’s how the costs break down:
- The cost of fingerprints is $53.50.
- The Florida DBPR licensing application fee is $83.75.
- The Florida state exam fee is $36.75.
- The cost for your state-approved Florida pre-licensing course can be anywhere from about $200 to $300+, depending on the real estate school you choose and whether the course is in-person or online-based.
Once you have your Florida Real Estate License, there will be post-licensing and continued education course/hour requirements, leading to additional costs to keep your Florida real estate license active. These are generally only a couple of hundred per year, which can be easily covered after your first sale
