How to Become a Real Estate Agent in Florida

how to become a real estate agent
Founder of InboundREM an inbound marketing lead generation company focused on SEO. Blogger. Real Estate SEO expert. Real Estate Lead Generation expert. Real estate online marketing fanatic. Podcaster. Occasional public speaker and frequent vlogger.

Table of Contents

Florida Real Estate Licenses

This guide to obtaining a Florida real estate license is comprehensive, catering to everyone in the state while providing specific details for major cities like Miami (FL). It covers all essential requirements, including real estate continuing education.

We highlight the best real estate classes and online courses available, ensuring that you have access to high-quality education and training resources throughout Florida.

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 Florida, 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, Florida 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 63 hours of pre-license education through courses approved by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). These courses include:

  • Sales Associate Pre-Licensing Course (63 hours)

Florida Real Estate Exam Details

Exam Structure

  • Total Questions: 100 multiple-choice questions
  • Sections: 45 national questions, 45 Florida-specific questions, and 10 real estate math questions
  • Time Limit: 3.5 hours
  • Passing Score: 75% (75 correct answers)

Registration and Fees

Identification Documents

  • Two forms of identification are required on exam day
    • One must be a government-issued photo ID with a signature (e.g., driver’s license or passport)

Required Forms and Documents

  • Application: Complete the Sales Associate Initial Application (RE 1) form
  • Additional Forms: Submit a certified transcript if applicable, such as for a four-year degree in real estate or law, which may exempt you from pre-licensing education

Background Check Process for Florida Real Estate License

1. Submission of Application

  • Ensure your license application is on file with the DBPR before submitting fingerprints
  • Applications can be submitted through the DBPR online portal

2. Fingerprinting

  • Service Provider: Use a Livescan Service Provider registered with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE)
  • Appointment: Schedule your fingerprinting appointment via the FDLE website
  • Fee: Approximately $37.25

3. Processing

  • FDLE will process the fingerprints and send the results to the DBPR

4. Review and Approval

  • The DBPR reviews all documentation, including the background check results, and typically processes applications within ten business days

5. Helpful Links

Following these steps will help ensure a smooth process in obtaining your Florida real estate license.

Stay informed by regularly checking the DBPR website for updates or changes in requirements.

Application

After passing the exam and completing the background check, submit your license application to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation.

  • Application Fee: $83.75

Post-Licensing Education

Complete 45 hours of post-licensing education within the first 18-24 months of licensure. This education is necessary for maintaining your license.

Continuing Education

To maintain your license, complete 14 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.

Florida Real Estate Education Options

Online Options

Florida offers a range of top-tier online real estate education options, with a variety 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 Florida, offering impressive pass rates, excellent customer reviews, and high-quality course materials that make it a standout option for aspiring real estate agents.

Florida residents are fortunate to have access to Aceable Agent’s courses, which are only available in select states, including Florida.

Although Aceable Agent isn’t offered in every state, its curriculum remains exceptional wherever it’s available. Be sure to take advantage of the exclusive 10% discount we’ve arranged for you below.

If you’re exploring other options, we’ve also secured special discounts for additional programs. The CE Shop is a reliable, budget-friendly alternative, and if you combine our 30% discount with their 20% military discount, you can save even more.

Ultimately, while all these courses offer good value, we strongly recommend Aceable Agent for the best combination of quality and success. If their pricing is a bit higher than expected, it may be worth investing a little extra to ensure you get 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 Florida, 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 Florida 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 Florida 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 students in Florida.

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

Miami:

Orlando:

Tampa:

Reciprocity

Full Reciprocity

Florida offers mutual recognition agreements (full reciprocity) with the following states:

  • Alabama
  • Arkansas
  • Connecticut
  • Georgia
  • Illinois
  • Mississippi
  • Nebraska
  • Rhode Island

If you hold an active real estate license in one of these states, you can apply for a Florida real estate license without additional education or examination requirements, except for passing a 40-question Florida-specific real estate law exam with a score of at least 75%. You must submit an application and pass a background check.

Partial Reciprocity

Florida does not offer partial reciprocity. All applicants from states without mutual recognition agreements must meet the state’s specific education and examination requirements.

Free eBooks for Agents

Free eBooks for Real Estate Agents

Download any or all of our real estate marketing eBooks. These books contain cutting edge information, deep-diving case studies, actionable hacks to skyrocket your business.

Broker's License

To become a real estate broker in Florida, you must:

  • Have at least two years of active real estate salesperson experience within the last five years
  • Complete 72 hours of broker pre-license education
  • Pass the Florida Real Estate Broker Examination
  • Submit a broker license application to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation

Criminal Record

The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation 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 Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation directly to discuss your specific circumstances and determine your eligibility.

Cost Breakdown

Item
Cost Range
Total
$520.50 – $1,058.50
Pre-License Education
$200 – $500
Exam Fee
$36.75
Background Check
$50 – $75
Application Fee
$83.75
Post-Licensing Education
$100 – $200
Continuing Education
$50 – $200 per cycle

Resources and Contacts

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 63 hours of pre-license courses
  • Exam pass notification from Pearson VUE
  • Fingerprint submission and background check confirmation
  • Completed application form for the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation
  • Payment for application fee

Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Real Estate Agent in Florida

  1. 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).
  2. Complete Pre-License Education: Enroll in and complete 63 hours of pre-license courses approved by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation.
  3. Schedule and Pass the Examination: Register for the Florida Real Estate Sales Associate 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 $36.75.
  4. Submit to a Background Check: Arrange for fingerprinting and a criminal background check through an FDLE-approved vendor. Ensure all required documentation is submitted to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation.
  5. Submit Your Application: Complete and submit the real estate license application to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation, including the application fee of $83.75.
  6. Find a Sponsoring Broker: To activate your license, find a licensed Florida real estate broker to work under. This is required for both temporary and permanent licensure.
  7. Complete Post-Licensing Education: Within the first 18-24 months of obtaining your license, complete 45 hours of post-licensing education.
  8. Begin Your Real Estate Career: Once your license is issued, start your career as a licensed real estate agent in Florida.
  9. Complete Continuing Education: Every two years, complete 14 hours of continuing education, including mandatory and elective courses, to maintain and renew your license.

Florida Real Estate Agent Salary

In Florida, real estate agents earn an average salary of $61,467 per year, with typical earnings ranging from $25,000 to $130,000.

The median salary is approximately $58,000, suggesting a relatively balanced income distribution.

The top 10% of agents can make over $150,000, especially in high-demand markets like Miami and Orlando.

Despite the state’s lower average salary compared to national figures, Florida’s relatively low cost of living and favorable tax climate can make these earnings more attractive.

The state’s diverse real estate market offers varied opportunities for agents across different regions.

FAQs

Can I become a real estate agent in Florida if I have a felony?

The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation 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 Florida?

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 Florida?

The total estimated cost ranges from $520.50 to $1,058.50, including education, exam fees, background checks, and application fees.

Does Florida have reciprocity with other states?

Florida has mutual recognition agreements with several states. You may need to pass a Florida-specific real estate law exam and meet other requirements.

Summary

Becoming a real estate agent in Florida 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 Florida.

Let's have a talk

Schedule a Meeting

Let’s chat about how an SEO-focused website that YOU OWN, Google Business Profile Campaigns, or Custom Email Campaigns can generate high-quality leads and exceptional long-term ROI. If my services aren’t the best move for you, I’ll gladly point you in the right direction

Disclosure: Some of these links are affiliate links that give us a commission at no extra cost to you. In some cases, you can even receive discounts via our links. If you found our content helpful, please use them.

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.

Leave a Reply