Real Estate Sales Agent

Entry-level license to represent buyers and sellers in real estate transactions.

40-180
Pre-License Hours
$56,320
Median Salary
420,900
Licensed Agents
3%
Job Growth

About the Real Estate Agent License

Real estate sales agents help clients buy, sell, and rent properties. They work under the supervision of a licensed broker and earn commissions on completed transactions.

General Requirements

  • Minimum Age: 18 years old
  • Education: High school diploma or GED (in most states)
  • Pre-Licensing: 40-180 hours (varies by state)
  • Background Check: Required in most states
  • Sponsoring Broker: Required to activate license

Exam Information

Exam Name: Real Estate Salesperson Exam

Provider: Varies by state (PSI, Pearson VUE, state-administered)

Format: Most states: National portion + State-specific portion

Passing Score: Typically 70-75%

Career Outlook

Work Environment: Office-based with significant time spent showing properties, attending open houses, and meeting clients

Compensation: Commission-based (typically 2.5-3% of sale price, split with broker)

Career Advancement: Real Estate Broker, Property Manager, Real Estate Appraiser

Ready to Upgrade?

After gaining experience as an agent, you can upgrade to a broker license for more independence and earning potential.

Learn about Broker License →