Connecticut Real Estate Licenses
This guide to obtaining a Connecticut real estate license is for all aspiring agents across the state, detailing the necessary steps and real estate continuing education requirements.
Special sections provide information for those in Hartford (CT) and other significant urban areas.
We cover the best real estate classes and online courses available, ensuring that you have access to top-notch educational resources, no matter where you are in Connecticut.
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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 Connecticut, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
Like all US states, Connecticut 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 60 hours of pre-license education through courses approved by the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection (DCP).
The course is called “Real Estate Principles and Practices”.
Duration and Format: The course is 60 hours long and can be taken in different formats, including live, in-person, or virtual-live classes. It typically spans 5-10 weeks, depending on the schedule (e.g., weekday, evening, or weekend classes).
Content Covered:
- Real Property and the Law
- Home Ownership Concepts
- Agency and Real Estate Brokerage
- Listing Agreements and Buyer Representation
- Real Estate Financing, Appraisal, and Contracts
- Connecticut Licensing Law and Regulations
- Fair Housing and Ethics Practices
Examination
Pass the Connecticut Real Estate Salesperson Examination administered by PSI. The exam consists of a national portion and a state-specific portion. You need to pass both sections with a score of at least 70%.
Exam Fee: $65
You can retake the exam as many times as needed within one year from the date you’re eligible.
Both portions of the exam must be passed within this one-year period. If you don’t pass both sections within this timeframe, you’ll need to reapply with PSI.
After successfully passing both parts of the exam, you have two years from the date of the most recently passed portion to activate your license. Real estate salesperson licenses in Colorado expire biennially.
Exam Format:
- Multiple Choice: 110 questions total (80 national, 30 state).
- Time Limit: 165 minutes (approximately 3 hours).
- Passing Score: At least 70%.
You must present a government-issued photo ID and a secondary ID that includes a matching signature to your photo ID.
Difficulty and Pass Rate
Students pass the exam about 60% of the time, which also includes students retaking the exam.
It’s essential to study diligently from the beginning. I also highly recommend using learning resources beyond your paid 60-hour coursework.
Background Check
Application
After passing the exam and completing the background check, submit your license application to the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection.
- Application Fee: $80
Post-Licensing Education
Connecticut does not require post-licensing education for new real estate agents.
Continuing Education
To maintain your license, complete 12 hours of continuing education every two years before renewing your license. This includes mandatory courses and elective courses to stay updated with industry changes and legal requirements.
Connecticut Real Estate Education Options
Online Options
Connecticut offers a couple of great options for online real estate education, with two of the top schools providing digital courses. Colibri Real Estate stands out as our top recommendation, offering a comprehensive curriculum, strong customer reviews, and a solid reputation for helping students succeed on their exams.
For those seeking a more affordable option, The CE Shop is the budget-friendly alternative, offering quality courses at a lower price point. Plus, you can take advantage of our exclusive 30% discount, which can be combined with their 20% military discount for even greater savings.
Both schools offer excellent value, but Colibri Real Estate may be a better fit for those seeking a more structured and in-depth learning experience. If budget is your primary concern, The CE Shop remains an excellent choice, providing solid support and a strong foundation to help you get started in real estate.
1. The CE Shop – Best Budget Course
The CE Shop is the most affordable option for real estate education in Connecticut 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.
2. Colibri Real Estate
Colibri Real Estate provides flexible learning formats, including self-paced courses and live webinars, suitable for students in Connecticut.
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
Hartford:
- Greater Hartford Association of REALTORS®: Offers in-person pre-licensing and continuing education courses.
- Capital Community College: Provides in-person real estate courses, including pre-licensing education.
New Haven:
- New Haven Middlesex Association of REALTORS®: Offers in-person pre-licensing and continuing education classes.
- Gateway Community College: Provides in-person real estate education.
Stamford:
- Stamford Board of REALTORS®: Offers a variety of in-person educational courses for pre-licensing and continuing education.
Reciprocity
Full Reciprocity
Connecticut offers full reciprocity with the following states:
- Alabama
- Colorado
- Florida
- Georgia
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Massachusetts
- Mississippi
- Nebraska
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Rhode Island
- Tennessee
If you hold an active real estate license in one of these states, you can apply for a Connecticut real estate license without additional education or examination requirements. You must submit an application and pass a background check.
Partial Reciprocity
Connecticut offers partial reciprocity with other states. If you hold an active real estate license in another state, you may qualify for a waiver of the national portion of the Connecticut real estate exam.
You will need to pass the Connecticut state-specific portion of the exam and fulfill other state-specific requirements.
For detailed information and required forms, visit the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection Reciprocity Information.
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Broker's License
To become a real estate broker in Connecticut, you must:
- Have at least two years of active real estate salesperson experience
- Complete 60 hours of broker pre-license education
- Pass the Connecticut Real Estate Broker Examination
- Submit a broker license application to the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection
Criminal Record
The Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection 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 Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection directly to discuss your specific circumstances and determine your eligibility.
Cost Breakdown
Item | Cost Range |
|---|---|
Total | $545 – $1,045 |
Pre-License Education | $300 – $600 |
Exam Fee | $65 |
Background Check | $50 – $100 |
Application Fee | $80 |
Continuing Education | $50 – $200 per cycle |
Resources and Contacts
- Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection: (860) 713-6150
- Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection, License Services Division:
- Street and Mailing Address: 450 Columbus Ave, Suite 801, Hartford, Connecticut 06103
- Telephone: (860) 713-6000
- Email: dcp.licenseservices@ct.gov
- Department of Consumer Protection
- Real Estate Salesperson Initial Application
- PSI Examination Services: (800) 733-9267
Document Checklist
- Proof of age (ID, birth certificate)
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident status
- Completion certificates for 60 hours of pre-license courses
- Exam pass notification from PSI
- Fingerprint submission and background check confirmation
- Completed application form for the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection
- Payment for application fee
Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Real Estate Agent in Connecticut
- Meet Basic Requirements: Ensure you are at least 18 years old, a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.
- Complete Pre-License Education: Enroll in and complete 60 hours of pre-license courses approved by the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection.
- Schedule and Pass the Examination: Register for the Connecticut Real Estate Salesperson Examination through PSI. Study for and pass the exam, ensuring you achieve a minimum score of 70% on both the national and state-specific portions. Pay the exam fee of $65.
- Submit to a Background Check: Arrange for fingerprinting and a criminal background check. Ensure all required documentation is submitted to the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection.
- Submit Your Application: Complete and submit the real estate license application to the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection, including the application fee of $80.
- Find a Sponsoring Broker: To activate your license, find a licensed Connecticut real estate broker to work under. This is required for both temporary and permanent licensure.
- Begin Your Real Estate Career: Once your license is issued, start your career as a licensed real estate agent in Connecticut.
- Complete Continuing Education: Every two years, complete 12 hours of continuing education, including mandatory and elective courses, to maintain and renew your license.
Connecticut Real Estate Agent Salary
In Connecticut, real estate agents earn an average salary of $82,093 per year, with a range typically between $33,000 and $150,000.
The median salary stands at $77,000, indicating a reasonably equitable income spread among agents.
Top agents, especially in affluent areas like Greenwich and Stamford, can earn well over $200,000 annually.
Despite being a smaller state, Connecticut’s proximity to major markets like New York City contributes to a competitive real estate landscape with high earning potential.
The relatively high cost of living can moderate the perceived value of these earnings.
FAQs
Can I become a real estate agent in Connecticut if I have a felony?
The Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection 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 Connecticut?
It typically takes 2-4 months to complete the pre-license education, pass the exam, and obtain your license.
What is the cost to become a real estate agent in Connecticut?
The total estimated cost ranges from $545 to $1,045, including education, exam fees, background checks, and application fees.
Does Connecticut have reciprocity with other states?
Connecticut offers full reciprocity with several states and partial reciprocity with others. You may need to pass the Connecticut state-specific portion of the real estate exam and meet other requirements.
Summary
Becoming a real estate agent in Connecticut involves meeting educational requirements, passing an exam, undergoing a background check, and completing continuing education.
By following these steps and utilizing the provided resources, you can successfully start and maintain your real estate career in Connecticut.
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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.
