Do You Need Real Estate Certification in Florida?

2-minute read

Florida real estate agent standing in front of a property for sale

If you’re considering a real estate career in Florida, the short answer is yes – you need to obtain a Florida real estate license. A license allows you to conduct real estate transactions legally and is an essential first step toward becoming an agent. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about earning your Florida real estate license. 

What Are The Basic Qualifications?

To qualify for a Florida real estate license, you must:

  • Be at least 18 years old.
  • Have a high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Possess a valid U.S. Social Security number.

Are Courses Required For a Florida Real Estate License?

Yes, Florida requires you to complete 63 hours of pre-licensing education through an approved course provider1. You may be able to skip this requirement if you’re an attorney in good standing with the Florida Bar or have a four-year degree in real estate from an accredited institution.

How do I Apply For a Florida Real Estate License?

Once you’ve completed the required courses, follow these steps:

  1. Submit your application: Complete your application on the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) website2 and pay the application fee. The Florida DBPR will process your application, which typically takes 4-6 weeks. 
  2. Undergo a criminal background check: Schedule Livescan fingerprinting and a background check with an authorized service provider.3 Bring two forms of ID to your appointment.

How do I Schedule and Pass the Florida Real Estate Sales Associate Exam?

The Florida Real Estate Sales Associate Exam is a state-administered test to earn your Florida real estate license. Once you’ve completed the step outlined above, you can take the Florida Real Estate Sales Associate Exam. Here’s how:

  • Schedule your exam through Pearson Vue4, either online5 or by phone6.
  • Bring two forms of valid ID (one government-issued) and proof that you’ve completed your pre-licensing courses.
  • To pass the exam, score at least 75% or higher.

What Happens After I Pass the Exam?

Congratulations! You’re officially licensed to start working as a Florida real estate agent.

Have a real estate license in another state but are planning on moving your business to Florida? Check out our guide to Florida real estate license reciprocity to learn how to get licensed in the Sunshine State.

References:

  1. https://www.kapre.com/real-estate/florida/licensing-courses ↩︎
  2. https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/real-estate-commission/#1490282746541-c2089426-85569f01-370b
    ↩︎
  3. https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/fingerprinting/ ↩︎
  4. https://www.pearsonvue.com ↩︎
  5. https://www.pearsonvue.com/us/en/fl/realestate.html ↩︎
  6. https://www.pearsonvue.com/us/en/test-takers/customer-service.html ↩︎

Written by

Courtney Hayes

Born and raised in the fishing port of Gloucester, MA, I grew up listening to the sea stories of local fishermen. My first job was “chum girl” on my dad’s tuna boat, where I spent my formative years covered in fish guts. Since then, I’ve worked as a researcher, blogger, and writer for documentary films. When not at work, you can find me surfing the cold waters of the North Atlantic or searching for warmer waves around the world.

Courtney writes on a number of topics such as risk assessment, starting a small business, and financial resources.

This content is for general, informational purposes only and is not intended to provide legal, tax, accounting, or financial advice. Please obtain expert advice from industry-specific professionals who may better understand your business’s needs. Read our full disclaimer