It’s a pretty simple process to get your real estate license once you know what the steps are and where to find the information. I’ve spent the last 10 years guiding people on how to get their real estate license. While the process does vary from state to state, the main steps to becoming a real estate agent are usually the same.
The five main steps when getting your real estate license are research the process, complete real estate class, pass the state and national exam, apply for your license and choose a brokerage.
- Research the licensing requirements on the real estate commission website for your state.
- Enroll in and complete the real estate licensing class at the school of your choice.
- Take and pass the state and national real estate exam.
- Apply for your real estate license.
- Choose a brokerage to hang your issued license.
Let’s go into more detail about the five main steps to becoming a real estate agent.
1. Research real estate licensing requirements
Each state has it’s own specific licensing requirements. Start by going to the state’s real estate commission website where you want to be licensed in to review their specific instructions. Each state has their own commission that governs the real estate for the state. This will tell you the specific steps and fees required for your state.
Some common requirements are performing a background check which includes getting your fingerprints taken. Some of these steps will overlap each other. Pay close attention to the timelines. Once you understand the overall process, you are ready to go on to the next step.
2. Enroll in and complete real estate school
To choose a good real estate school, start by verifying that it is accredited by the state in which you plan to practice and has a good reputation in the industry. Consider the program format, such as traditional in-person classroom or the convenience of online courses and which type of classroom fits your learning style best. Online classes can feel monotonous and less exciting, but they offer the convenience of completing on your schedule and at your pace. Read reviews and see if your state offers pass rate statistics to help you make the decision.
Real Estate school usually takes 2 months up to a year to complete depending on the number of hours you are taking and how much time you have to devote to it. Think about what date you would like to be finished by. Back into it and estimate how many hours a day you will need to block off to spend on class work. Choosing the right real estate school and completing the required hours is an important step towards your bright future.
3. Take and pass the state and national real estate exam
After you complete the required class hours and class testing, you are ready to schedule your state and national tests. Again, more information about how to schedule the tests will be available on your state real estate commission, licensing website.
Real estate exams typically take place at approved testing centers, which are often located in major cities or population centers within a state. The specific location of the testing center will depend on the exam provider and the availability of testing facilities in your area. Some states may also offer online or remote proctoring options for the real estate exam, which would allow you to take the exam from the comfort of your own home or office. It’s important to check with your exam provider or state’s real estate licensing board to determine the exact location of the testing center or the availability of remote testing options in your area.
To prepare for the real estate exam, it’s important to study, take practice tests, and review any relevant materials provided by your pre-licensing education program. You can also purchase additional study materials if you feel it is needed.
The real estate exam typically consists of two parts: a national section that covers general real estate principles, and a state-specific section that covers real estate laws, regulations, and practices specific to the state where you are seeking licensure. The length and format of the exam can vary depending on the state and the exam provider, but it generally takes a few hours to complete.
You will not be allowed to have any smart devices or belongings in the room with you. You will probably be offered a locker to store your belongings during the exam.
While everyone hopes to pass on their first try, don’t be alarmed if you don’t. If you fail the exam, you will be able to retake it. Each facility has rules on how to schedule a retake exam. Usually you will need to wait a specific amount of time and pay an additional fee. Once you pass the exam, then you are ready to apply for your real estate license!
4. Apply for your real estate license
Before you start real estate school, you should have researched your state’s specific steps to getting your license. Follow their timeline to know when to schedule your background check and fingerprints. Often you can start these while in school.
Once you completed your hours in real estate school, you are ready to apply for your license. The specific requirements for obtaining a real estate license vary by state and country. However, in general, most states in the United States require that applicants for a real estate license meet the following criteria:
- Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
- Education: You must complete a certain number of hours of real estate education, which typically includes pre-licensing coursework.
- Background check: You must pass a criminal background check.
- Exam: You must pass a state-administered real estate licensing exam.
- Experience: Some states may also require you to have a certain amount of experience working in real estate, such as completing a certain number of real estate transactions. Some states may reduce the hours of school required
Once you have met all of these requirements, you can apply for a real estate license through your state’s real estate commission or licensing board.
5. Hang your issued license with a real estate brokerage
Once you receive your license number you can either keep it inactive until you are ready to go active or you decide what brokerage you want to join. This is the fun and exciting part of the process. It’s a good idea to start researching and even interviewing with different brokerages while you are in real estate school. You must hang your license under a real estate broker in order to practice real estate. Here are some things to consider then deciding who to join.
When you’re looking for a real estate company to join, there’s a lot to consider.
- Company reputation: You will want to find a company with a top-notch reputation in the industry and with clients. Look for online reviews, ratings, and testimonials from current and past agents and clients.
- Company culture: Consider the company’s values, mission, and culture. You’ll be spending a lot of time with your colleagues, so it’s important to find a company that aligns with your values and goals. a culture that vibes with your values and goals
- Commission structure: Consider the commission structure offered by the company. Look for a company that offers competitive commission rates and provides clear and transparent information about how commissions are earned and paid.
- Training and support: Consider the training and support offered by the company. Look for a company that offers comprehensive training programs, ongoing support, and resources to help you succeed.
- Technology and marketing: Consider the technology and marketing tools offered by the company. Look for a company that provides access to cutting-edge technology and marketing tools to help you reach more clients and grow your business.
- Location and market focus: Consider the location and market focus of the company. Look for a company that operates in the areas and markets you are interested in working in.
- Growth opportunities: Consider the growth opportunities offered by the company. Look for a company that offers opportunities for advancement, such as leadership roles or the ability to expand your business.
Ultimately, the right real estate company for you will depend on your personal goals, values, and preferences. Take the time to research and compare different companies to find the one that best fits your needs and can help you achieve your career goals.
You want to find a company with a top-notch reputation in the industry and with clients, a culture that aligns with your values and goals, and a commission structure that makes it worth your while. And don’t forget about training and support, – you need a company that’s got your back and can help you reach your full potential.
You want access to the latest technology and marketing tools too, right? Of course you do! And don’t forget about growth opportunities – you want to find a company that can help you climb the ladder and reach for the stars. So go on and take a good look at all your options – there’s a real estate company out there that’s perfect for you!
Stay in touch! I would love to hear from you about your real estate journey.