Your Complete Guide to
Real Estate Licensing
State-by-state requirements, exam preparation guides, reciprocity information, and continuing education resources for real estate professionals.
Licensing Data for Real Estate Organizations
Keep your agents compliant across state lines. We maintain verified, up-to-date licensing requirements from all 50 state real estate commissions.
Multi-State Compliance
Track CE requirements, renewal deadlines, and reciprocity rules across all states where your agents operate.
License Verification
Direct links to state commission lookup tools. Verify agent licenses and disciplinary history instantly.
Reciprocity Intelligence
Understand which states honor existing licenses and what additional requirements apply for agent mobility.
How to Get Your Real Estate License
The path to becoming a licensed real estate agent follows a standardized process across all 50 states.
Pre-License Education
Complete required coursework (40-180 hours depending on state)
Background Check
Submit fingerprints and pass criminal background screening
Pass the Exam
Score 70-75% on state and national portions of the exam
Find a Broker
Partner with a sponsoring broker to activate your license
Choose Your Career Path
Explore licensing requirements for real estate agents, brokers, and mortgage loan originators.
Real Estate Agent
Entry-level license to buy and sell property on behalf of clients. Work under a sponsoring broker.
Real Estate Broker
Advanced license to operate independently, manage agents, and run your own brokerage.
Mortgage Loan Originator
NMLS-licensed professional who helps borrowers secure mortgage financing. Requires SAFE exam.
Popular State Guides
Find detailed licensing requirements for your state.
Real Estate Licensing Guides
Step-by-step resources to help you navigate real estate licensing.
How to Get Your License
Complete step-by-step guide from zero to licensed agent
Become a Broker
Requirements and timeline for upgrading to broker status
Become an MLO
NMLS licensing, SAFE exam, and sponsorship requirements
Exam Preparation
Study strategies, practice questions, and pass rate data
State Reciprocity
Transfer your license or practice across state lines
Continuing Education
CE requirements by state and approved course providers
Requirements Vary by State
Each state has unique pre-license education requirements, exam formats, and continuing education rules. Our guides cover all 50 states.
- 40-180 pre-license hours depending on state
- Exam pass rates from 50-70% on first attempt
- License reciprocity agreements between states
Typical Requirements
Free Licensing Tools
Interactive tools to help you plan your real estate career and track licensing requirements.
Trusted by Real Estate Professionals
Our information is verified against official state real estate commission sources and updated regularly to ensure accuracy.