Get Your Real Estate License
Start Your Real Estate Career In Florida
Ready to help people make one of the biggest decision of their lives and build a business doing it? Great! Here’s how you actually get your Florida real estate license and start working as a REALTOR®.
But first…let’s make sure you qualify. To apply for a real estate license in Florida, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Have a U.S. Social Security Number
If you meet those basics, you’re ready to start your pre-licensing education.
How To Get Licensed In 5 Simple Steps
>Step 1: Complete Your Pre-License Course
Take the state-approved sales associate 63-hour pre-license course that covers:
- Florida real estate law
- Contracts and forms
- Principles of real estate practice
You can take the course online or in a classroom at a real estate school or at REALTOR® associations and boards statewide. Course packages vary from $100 to $500.
You must pass the course’s final exam with a score of at least 70 percent.
NOTE: If you’re approved to practice law in Florida, you don’t need to take the pre-license course. You may take the sales associate exam by affixing a copy of your current Florida Bar card to the exam application.
Step 2: Apply to take the Florida real estate exam
*Get your electronic fingerprints. The Department of Business and Professional Regulations (DBPR) needs them in order to run a background check. You’ll need to have your fingerprints taken at least 5 days before you send your license application. See where and how to get electronic fingerprints (PDF). Each fingerprint vendor sets the price for their services, but the typical cost is $50 to $80.
*You will need to provide your Social Security number and the following ORI number: FL920010Z.
*Submit an application to the DBPR. The fee is $83.75, which you can pay online or by mail with a check or money order.
The Dept. of Business & Professional Regulations (DBPR) reviews all applications. The Pearson VUE company will notify you by email when your application has been approved (generally takes 10 to 30 days).
Step 3: Take and pass the state real estate exam
*Pearson VUE oversees the state exam process and offers the course in a variety of formats and locations. The cost is $36.75 per exam.
Watch your email for a notification from Pearson VUE with the subject line “Authorization to Test” letting you know that you are eligible to take the test. This email includes your nine-digit Candidate ID number, which you need in order to sign up for the exam with Pearson VUE. To schedule an exam, call 888.204.6289 or visit PearsonVUE ‘s website.
You must pass the exam with at least 75 out of 100 points.
*After passing the exam, download and print your license through your secure account at the DBPR website. Once your initial license is activated, it is valid for 18 to 24 months, depending on when you pass the state exam.
Step 4: Affiliate with a Broker
*Your real estate license is not technically active until you are affiliated with a licensed broker. A sponsoring broker will activate your license using the DBPR RE 11–Sales Associate form (PDF).
Step 5: Join Lakeland REALTORS® Association/Board
You must choose to join the local board associated with your broker. Local board dues and offerings vary.
How do I join Lakeland REALTORS®?
Once you join your local board, you will officially be allowed to call yourself a REALTOR® and a member of the Florida Realtors State association as well as the National Association of REALTORS®. Congratulations!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Happens After You’re Licensed?
You must complete your post-license education before your first renewal (about 18-24 months after licensure). Once that is completed, you will need to complete 14 hours of continuing education every two years to keep your license active. See more details regarding those requirements here.
How Long Does It Take To Get A Real Estate License in Florida?
Most people complete the process in 2-4 months, depending on how quickly they complete their pre-license course and schedule their state exam.
Can I Take My Real Estate Course Online?
Yes! Florida allow pre-license education to be completed online or in person through state-approved providers.
What Happens If I Don’t Pass The Exam The First Time?
You can retake the exam if needed. Candidates are more likely to pass on their first attemp if they review material after the course or use exam prep resources.
Do I Need A Broker Before I Take The State Exam?
No. You can complete your education and pass the exam before choosing a broker. Your license becomes active once a broker sponsors you.
What’s The Difference Between Post-Licensing And Continuing Education (CE)?
Post-Licensing is required only for your first renewal. Continuing Education (CE) is required every renewal cycle after that yo keep your license active.
Can Lakeland REALTORS® help me after I’m licensed?
Absolutely! We provide education, networking, professional development, advocacy, and resources to support you throughout your real estate career.
Still Have Questions?
Contact our Education and Events Director, Carrie Roberts or call us at (863) 687 – 6111. We’d be happy to help!
Get Started Today!
Whether you’re taking your first real estate class or preparing for CE, we want to make this journey as smooth as possible.
