Arizona Real Estate Licenses
This guide is your go-to resource for obtaining an Arizona real estate license, covering all state requirements and real estate continuing education.
It’s perfect for anyone in Arizona, with extra information for those in Phoenix (AZ) and other large cities.
We provide details on the best real estate classes and online courses available, making it easy for you to find the right fit for your needs.
Don't Become a Realtor If...
If you’re seriously interested in getting your real estate license, here are some great additional resources:
Requirements
To become a real estate agent in Arizona, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent (GED)
Like all US states, Arizona allows out-of-state applicants, so you do not need to reside there to become licensed as a real estate agent.
Pre-Licensing Education
Complete 90 hours of pre-license education through a course approved by the Arizona Department of Real Estate (ADRE). These courses can be taken online or in a classroom setting.
Examination
What You Need: 96 hours total
- 90-hour pre-licensing course for salespersons
- 6-hour contract writing course
Exam Fee: $75
Identity Verification: For both the 90-hour pre-licensing and 6-hour contract writing courses, you’ll need to verify your identity each time you log in. Don’t worry, the instructions are straightforward and provided in the course.
Seat Time: The Arizona Department of Real Estate requires you to spend a certain amount of time on the course content. Most educational courses have systems in place to ensure you meet these time requirements.
Final Exams: To pass, you need to score at least 75%. You’re allowed two attempts to pass the exam. If you don’t pass, you’ll need to retake the course. No worries, though—you got this!
Proctoring: The final exam must be proctored, so you’ll need to schedule an appointment with an approved online proctor in advance. After passing, you’ll sign an affidavit to confirm you’re the one who completed the course and exam.
Licensing Exam: The licensing exam is a separate process handled by PearsonVue. You’ll need to register for this exam separately. For more details, click here.
Course Completion: You must participate in the course for the required number of hours, with a daily limit of 10 hours. Most educational courses will help ensure you stay on track with this requirement. Remember, the time spent on the final exam doesn’t count towards the 90-hour requirement.
Reporting: There’s no need to worry about reporting your course completion. Just submit your certificate of completion with your license application when you’re ready.
Certificates: After submitting the signed affidavit, you’ll receive an electronic certificate of completion, available for download and via email. These certificates are typically kept on file for at least five years, so you can get extra copies if needed. Just keep in mind that the completion date will be recorded in Central Standard Time.
Course Expiration: Your course is valid for one year from the date of purchase. Make sure to note the expiration date.
Background Check
Submit fingerprints for a criminal background check. This is required to ensure you meet the ethical standards required for licensure.
This card is issued by the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS).
Application
After passing the exam and completing the background check, submit your license application to the Arizona Department of Real Estate.
- Application Fee: $60
Post-Licensing Education
Complete the 6-hour Contract Writing Course required by the ADRE before applying for your license. This course is necessary to ensure you understand the legalities of real estate contracts.
Continuing Education
To maintain your license, complete 24 hours of continuing education every two years before renewing your license. This helps you stay updated with industry changes and legal requirements.
Arizona Real Estate Education Options
Online Options
Arizona offers a range of top-tier online real estate education options, with a number of respected schools providing comprehensive digital courses designed to help you earn your real estate license.
Aceable Agent stands out as a top choice in Arizona, offering impressive pass rates, excellent customer reviews, and high-quality course materials that make it a standout option for prospective real estate agents.
Residents of Arizona are lucky to have access to Aceable Agent’s courses, which are only available in select states, including Arizona.
Although Aceable Agent isn’t available in every state, its curriculum remains exceptional wherever it’s offered. Be sure to take advantage of the exclusive 10% discount we’ve arranged for you below.
If you’re considering other options, we’ve also secured special discounts for additional programs. The CE Shop is a reliable, budget-friendly alternative, and if you pair our 30% discount with their 20% military discount, you can save even more.
Ultimately, while all these courses are reasonably priced, we strongly recommend Aceable Agent for the best combination of value and success. If their pricing is a bit higher than expected, it may be worth putting in a little extra to ensure you’re getting the best possible foundation for your real estate career.
1. Aceable Agent – Best Overall Course
Aceable Agent is the best choice for real estate education in Arizona, offering a mobile-first platform and engaging content.
Pros
- Mobile-first platform: Study anywhere, anytime.
- Interactive content: Engaging quizzes, videos, and real-world scenarios.
- High pass rates: Proven success in preparing students for licensing exams.
Cons
- Slightly higher pricing: More expensive without discounts, but worth it.
Up to 20% off with our Aceable Agent discount link.
2. The CE Shop – Best Budget Course
The CE Shop is the most affordable option for real estate education in Arizona providing a solid self-paced curriculum.
Pros
- Most affordable: The 30% discount makes it the cheapest option.
- Self-paced: Flexibility for students to study at their own speed.
Cons
- Mixed reviews: Some students report engagement issues and customer service problems.
- No live instruction: Entirely self-paced learning.
Get 30% off with Discount Code “INBOUNDREM” using our CE Shop discount link.
3. Kaplan Real Estate
Kaplan Real Estate offers a structured learning experience for Arizona students, with live online and self-paced formats.
Pros
- Multiple formats: Offers live online classes and self-paced options.
- Experienced instructors: Known for delivering high-quality education.
Cons
- Higher cost: More expensive than budget options, but justified for quality.
Get 10% off with our Kaplan Real Estate discount link.
4. Colibri Real Estate
Colibri Real Estate provides flexible learning formats, including self-paced courses and live webinars, suitable for Arizona students.
Pros
- Flexible formats: Self-paced and live webinars available.
- Pass guarantee: Refund if you don’t pass the state exam.
Cons
- Additional costs: Study resources may increase the total price.
Up to 15% off with our Colibri Real Estate discount link.
In-Person Options by Major Cities
Phoenix:
- Arizona School of Real Estate & Business: Offers in-person pre-licensing and continuing education courses.
- Phoenix College: Provides in-person real estate courses, including pre-licensing education.
Tucson:
- Tucson School of Real Estate: Offers in-person pre-licensing and continuing education classes.
- Pima Community College: Provides in-person real estate education.
Mesa:
- American Realty Academy: Offers a variety of in-person educational courses for pre-licensing and continuing education.
Reciprocity
Full Reciprocity
Arizona does not offer full reciprocity with any state.
Partial Reciprocity
Arizona offers partial reciprocity. If you hold an active real estate license in another state, you may qualify for a waiver of the national portion of the Arizona real estate exam.
You will only need to pass the Arizona state-specific portion of the exam and fulfill the other requirements for licensure.
For detailed information and required forms, visit the Arizona Department of Real Estate Reciprocity Information.
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Broker's License
To become a real estate broker in Arizona, you must:
- Have at least three years of active real estate salesperson experience within the last five years
- Complete 90 hours of broker pre-license education
- Pass the Arizona Real Estate Broker Examination
- Submit a broker license application to the Arizona Department of Real Estate
Criminal Record
The Arizona Department of Real Estate reviews applications from individuals with a criminal record on a case-by-case basis.
If you have a felony or other serious criminal conviction, you may still apply for a real estate license, but the Department will consider the nature of the crime, the time elapsed since the conviction, and evidence of rehabilitation.
Crimes involving fraud, theft, or moral turpitude are particularly scrutinized. It’s recommended to contact the Arizona Department of Real Estate directly to discuss your specific circumstances and determine your eligibility.
Cost Breakdown
Item | Cost Range |
|---|---|
Total | $685 – $1,110 |
Pre-License Education | $400 – $600 |
Exam Fee | $75 |
Background Check | $50 – $75 |
Application Fee | $60 |
Contract Writing Course | $50 – $100 |
Continuing Education | $50 – $200 per cycle |
Resources and Contacts
- Arizona Department of Real Estate:
- Telephone: (602) 771-7760
- Street Address: 100 N. 15th Ave., Suite 201 Phoenix, AZ 85007
- License Renewal Website
- License Lookup Website
- Licensing Division Information
- Education Division Information
- Contact AZ Dept. of Real Estate
- Pearson VUE: (888) 405-5776
Document Checklist
- Original Salesperson Application
- Original Arizona Exam Score Report(s)
- Pre-Licensure Education Certificate- the 96-hour certificate with the authorized signature
- Proof of Legal Presence
- DPS issued AZ Fingerprint Clearance Card
- Contract Writing Course Certificate
- Disciplinary Actions Disclosure Form (LI-214/244)
- Disclosure Document Checklist Form (LI-400) *if applicable
- Salesperson/Associate Broker Change Form LI-202 *if applicable
Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Real Estate Agent in Arizona
- Meet Basic Requirements: Ensure you are at least 18 years old, a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, and have a high school diploma or equivalent (GED).
- Complete Pre-License Education: Enroll in and complete a 90-hour pre-license course approved by the Arizona Department of Real Estate. This can be done online or in a classroom setting.
- Complete Contract Writing Course: Take the 6-hour Contract Writing Course required by the ADRE.
- Schedule and Pass the Examination: Register for the Arizona Real Estate Salesperson Examination through Pearson VUE. Study for and pass the exam, ensuring you achieve a minimum score of 75% on both the national and state-specific portions. Pay the exam fee of $75.
- Submit to a Background Check: Arrange for fingerprinting and a criminal background check. Ensure all required documentation is submitted to the Arizona Department of Real Estate.
- Submit Your Application: Complete and submit the real estate license application to the Arizona Department of Real Estate, including the application fee of $60.
- Find a Sponsoring Broker: To activate your license, find a licensed Arizona real estate broker to work under. This is required for both temporary and permanent licensure.
- Begin Your Real Estate Career: Once your permanent license is issued, start your career as a licensed real estate agent in Arizona.
- Complete Continuing Education: Every two years, complete 24 hours of continuing education to maintain and renew your license.
Arizona Real Estate Agent Salary
In Arizona, real estate agents earn an average salary of $99,901 per year, with a common range between $31,000 and $155,000.
The median salary of $85,000 indicates that a significant portion of agents earn closer to the middle of the pay spectrum.
The top 10% of agents, however, can earn upwards of $200,000, particularly in thriving markets like Phoenix and Scottsdale.
This substantial earning potential reflects Arizona’s robust real estate market, characterized by strong demand and relatively high property values.
The state’s lower cost of living, compared to high-income states, further enhances the value of these earnings.
FAQs
Can I become a real estate agent in Arizona if I have a felony?
The Arizona Department of Real Estate reviews applications from individuals with a criminal record on a case-by-case basis. Certain felonies, particularly those involving fraud or moral turpitude, may disqualify you. Contact the Department for specific inquiries.
How long does it take to become a real estate agent in Arizona?
It typically takes 3-6 months to complete the pre-license education, pass the exam, and fulfill the post-license education requirements.
What is the cost to become a real estate agent in Arizona?
The total estimated cost ranges from $685 to $1,110, including education, exam fees, background checks, and application fees.
Does Arizona have reciprocity with other states?
Arizona offers partial reciprocity. You need to pass the Arizona state-specific portion of the real estate exam and meet other requirements.
Summary
Becoming a real estate agent in Arizona involves meeting educational requirements, passing an exam, undergoing a background check, and completing post-license and continuing education.
By following these steps and utilizing the provided resources, you can successfully start and maintain your real estate career in Arizona.
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We have an agreement with The CE Shop to promote online course information to consumers and real estate licensees. We are not the developer of these courses and is simply providing a referral. All education is provided by The CE Shop and any questions regarding course content or course technology should be directed to The CE Shop.
