Delaware Real Estate Licenses
If you’re aiming for a Delaware real estate license, this guide covers everything you need to know, including real estate continuing education requirements.
It’s designed for everyone in the state, with specific information for major cities like Wilmington (DE).
Discover the best real estate classes and online courses available, helping you to prepare thoroughly for a successful real estate career in Delaware.
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 Delaware, 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, Delaware 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 99 hours of pre-license education through courses approved by the Delaware Real Estate Commission. These courses include:
- Real Estate Salesperson Pre-Licensing Course (99 hours)
Delaware Real Estate Exam Details
Exam Structure
- Total Questions: 120 multiple-choice questions
- National Portion: 80 questions
- State-Specific Portion: 40 questions
- Time Limit: 240 minutes (4 hours)
- Passing Score: 70% on each portion (56 correct answers on the national portion and 28 correct answers on the state portion)
Registration and Fees
- Exam Fee: $85, payable upon registration.
- Registration Portal: Candidates must register through the Pearson VUE portal.
- Testing Centers: Available in various locations, including Delaware and neighboring states. It’s advisable to arrive at the testing center at least 30 minutes before the scheduled time.
Identification Requirements
Candidates must present two forms of identification on exam day. One must be a government-issued photo ID with a signature, such as a driver’s license or passport.
Required Forms and Documents
- Registration: Register through the DELPROS system.
- Forms: Necessary forms such as the Statement of Broker of Record can be found on the Division of Professional Regulation’s forms page.
Exam Difficulty and Passing Rates
The Delaware Real Estate Exam has a pass rate of approximately 62%, which indicates that it is moderately challenging.
This pass rate is slightly lower than the national average, which typically ranges from 60% to 80%.
The exam requires a comprehensive understanding of both national and state-specific real estate laws, making thorough preparation essential for success.
For additional resources and information, including access to application forms and guidelines, candidates are encouraged to visit the Delaware Division of Professional Regulation.
Delaware Real Estate License Background Check Process
To obtain a real estate license in Delaware, a comprehensive background check is required. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to complete this process:
1. Register for Fingerprinting
- Service Provider: Delaware uses IdentoGO for fingerprinting services.
- Registration: Go to IdentoGO’s website to register. You will need to enter the appropriate Service Code for real estate licensing in Delaware. The Service Code for real estate applicants is 27S336. This code is crucial for ensuring your fingerprinting is processed correctly.
2. Scheduling an Appointment
- Online Appointment: After registration, schedule your fingerprinting appointment at a nearby IdentoGO location.
- What to Bring: Bring a valid government-issued ID (such as a driver’s license or passport) to the appointment. Ensure that all the information you provide matches your identification documents accurately.
3. Complete Fingerprinting
- Fingerprinting Process: At the appointment, your fingerprints will be digitally captured and submitted for both state and federal criminal background checks. This process is completed electronically, eliminating the need for paper fingerprint cards.
4. Payment
- Fee: The fee for fingerprinting and processing the background check is typically around $65. This fee must be paid at the time of service or during the online registration process.
5. Processing and Results
- Results: The results of your background check will be sent directly to the Delaware Division of Professional Regulation (DPR). The DPR will review the results as part of your application process. You will not receive a copy of the results unless there is an issue that needs to be addressed.
6. Application Submission
- DELPROS Portal: Submit your real estate license application and all necessary documentation through the DELPROS system. You will need to create an account if you don’t have one already. Once logged in, you can track the status of your application and upload required documents, such as your fingerprinting receipt and course completion certificates.
Helpful Links
- Delaware Division of Professional Regulation – Official portal for licensure and regulatory information.
- IdentoGO Quick Guide – Instructions and service codes for fingerprinting.
This process ensures that all prospective real estate agents in Delaware meet the necessary legal and ethical standards. Make sure to follow each step carefully and submit all required documents to avoid delays in your licensing application.
Application
After passing the exam and completing the background check, submit your license application to the Delaware Real Estate Commission.
- Application Fee: $131
Post-Licensing Education
Complete 12 hours of post-licensing education within the first year of licensure. This education is necessary for maintaining your license.
Continuing Education
To maintain your license, complete 21 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.
Delaware Real Estate Education Options
Online Options
Delaware offers a few great options for online real estate education, with top-rated schools providing digital courses. Colibri Real Estate stands out as our top recommendation, featuring a comprehensive curriculum, excellent customer reviews, and a proven track record of helping students succeed on their exams.
For those looking for a more affordable alternative, The CE Shop provides quality courses at a lower price point. You can also take advantage of our exclusive 30% discount, which can be combined with their 20% military discount, offering even greater value.
Both schools provide excellent options, but Colibri Real Estate may be the better choice for those who prefer a more structured and in-depth learning experience. If budget is a key factor, The CE Shop remains a solid choice, delivering strong support and a reliable foundation for your real estate career.
1. The CE Shop – Best Budget Course
The CE Shop is the most affordable option for real estate education in Delaware 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 Delaware 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
Wilmington:
- New Castle County Board of REALTORS®: Offers in-person pre-licensing and continuing education courses.
- Delaware Technical Community College: Provides in-person real estate courses, including pre-licensing education.
Dover:
- Central Delaware Real Estate Academy: Offers in-person pre-licensing and continuing education classes.
- Wesley College: Provides in-person real estate education.
Rehoboth Beach:
- Sussex County Association of REALTORS®: Offers a variety of in-person educational courses for pre-licensing and continuing education.
Reciprocity
Full Reciprocity
Delaware offers full reciprocity with the following states:
- Alabama
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Georgia
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Maine
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Nebraska
- New Hampshire
- North Carolina
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Virginia
- West Virginia
If you hold an active real estate license in one of these states, you can apply for a Delaware real estate license without additional education or examination requirements. You must submit an application and pass a background check.
Partial Reciprocity
Delaware 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 Delaware real estate exam.
You will need to pass the Delaware state-specific portion of the exam and fulfill other state-specific requirements.
For detailed information and required forms, visit the Delaware Real Estate Commission Reciprocity Information.
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Broker's License
To become a real estate broker in Delaware, you must:
- Have at least five years of active real estate salesperson experience
- Complete 99 hours of broker pre-license education
- Pass the Delaware Real Estate Broker Examination
- Submit a broker license application to the Delaware Real Estate Commission
Criminal Record
The Delaware Real Estate Commission 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 Commission 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 Delaware Real Estate Commission directly to discuss your specific circumstances and determine your eligibility.
Cost Breakdown
Item | Cost Range |
|---|---|
Total | $916 – $1,516 |
Pre-License Education | $500 – $800 |
Exam Fee | $85 |
Background Check | $50 – $100 |
Application Fee | $131 |
Post-Licensing Education | $100 – $200 |
Continuing Education | $50 – $200 per cycle |
Resources and Contacts
- Delaware Real Estate Commission:
- Street Address: Cannon Building, 861 Silver Lake Blvd., Suite 203, Dover, DE 19904
- Telephone: (302) 744-4500
- FAX: (302) 739 2711
- Email: customerservice.dpr@state.de.us
- License Renewal Website
- License Lookup Website
- PSI Examination Services: (888) 405-5776
Document Checklist
- Proof of age (ID, birth certificate)
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident status
- High school diploma or GED certificate
- Completion certificates for 99 hours of pre-license courses
- Exam pass notification from Pearson VUE
- Fingerprint submission and background check confirmation
- Completed application form for the Delaware Real Estate Commission
- Payment for application fee
Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Real Estate Agent in Delaware
- 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 99 hours of pre-license courses approved by the Delaware Real Estate Commission.
- Schedule and Pass the Examination: Register for the Delaware Real Estate Salesperson Examination through Pearson VUE. 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 $85.
- Submit to a Background Check: Arrange for fingerprinting and a criminal background check through the Delaware State Police and FBI. Ensure all required documentation is submitted to the Delaware Real Estate Commission.
- Submit Your Application: Complete and submit the real estate license application to the Delaware Real Estate Commission, including the application fee of $131.
- Find a Sponsoring Broker: To activate your license, find a licensed Delaware real estate broker to work under. This is required for both temporary and permanent licensure.
- Complete Post-Licensing Education: Within the first year of obtaining your license, complete 12 hours of post-licensing education.
- Begin Your Real Estate Career: Once your license is issued, start your career as a licensed real estate agent in Delaware.
- Complete Continuing Education: Every two years, complete 21 hours of continuing education, including mandatory and elective courses, to maintain and renew your license.
Delaware Real Estate Agent Salary
In Delaware, real estate agents earn an average salary of $93,913 per year, with earnings typically ranging from $40,000 to $180,000.
The median salary is around $88,000, reflecting a balanced income distribution. Top agents can earn over $200,000, particularly in popular areas like Wilmington and Rehoboth Beach.
Delaware’s real estate market benefits from its favorable tax environment and proximity to larger metropolitan areas, making it an attractive place for agents.
The state’s moderate cost of living further enhances the value of these earnings, offering a good balance between income and expenses.
FAQs
Can I become a real estate agent in Delaware if I have a felony?
The Delaware Real Estate Commission 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 Commission for specific inquiries.
How long does it take to become a real estate agent in Delaware?
It typically takes 3-6 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 Delaware?
The total estimated cost ranges from $916 to $1,516, including education, exam fees, background checks, and application fees.
Does Delaware have reciprocity with other states?
Delaware offers full reciprocity with several states and partial reciprocity with others. You may need to pass the Delaware state-specific portion of the real estate exam and meet other requirements.
Summary
Becoming a real estate agent in Delaware 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 Delaware.
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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.
