Georgia Real Estate Licenses
For those pursuing a Georgia real estate license, this guide offers all the necessary information, including real estate continuing education requirements.
It’s designed for everyone in the state, with special insights for those in Atlanta (GA) and other large cities.
We explore the best real estate classes and online courses available, providing you with the resources needed to succeed in Georgia’s real estate market.
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 Georgia, 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, Georgia 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 75 hours of pre-license education through courses approved by the Georgia Real Estate Commission (GREC). These courses include:
- Salesperson Pre-Licensing Course (75 hours)
Georgia Real Estate Exam Details
Exam Structure
- Total Questions: 152 multiple-choice questions
- National Portion: 100 questions
- State-Specific Portion: 52 questions
- Time Limit: 4 hours
- Passing Score: 75% overall (minimum 75 correct answers on the national section and 39 on the state section)
Registration and Fees
- Application Fee: $170 for the initial application
- Exam Fee: $121, payable upon scheduling the exam
- Registration: Submit your application to the Georgia Real Estate Commission (GREC) and schedule your exam through PSI. For more details and scheduling, visit the PSI website.
Identification Documents
- Two forms of identification are required on exam day, one of which must be a government-issued photo ID with a signature (e.g., driver’s license or passport).
Required Forms and Documents
- It’s best to contact the GREC directly to begin your application.
- Obtaining a License Official Page
Background Check Process for Georgia Real Estate License
- Submission of Application
- Submit your license application to the Georgia Real Estate Commission (GREC) before proceeding with fingerprinting. Applications can be submitted online through the GREC website.
- Fingerprinting
- Service Provider: Use a GREC-approved vendor like Gemalto.
- Appointment: Schedule your fingerprinting appointment via the GAPS (Gemalto Applicant Processing Service) website.
- Fee: Approximately $38.25 for the fingerprinting service.
- Processing
- The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) and the FBI process the fingerprints. Results are sent directly to GREC.
- Review and Approval
- GREC reviews the application and background check results, typically within ten days after receiving all documents.
- Helpful Links
- GAPS Gemalto: Fingerprinting appointments and information
Exam Difficulty and Passing Rates
The Georgia Real Estate Exam is considered moderately challenging.
The exam has a passing rate of around 60-70%, which indicates that a significant number of candidates do not pass on their first attempt. That’s pretty typical across the nation, however.
The state-specific section, which includes Georgia laws and regulations, can be particularly challenging due to its detailed nature.
Application
After passing the exam and completing the background check, submit your license application to the Georgia Real Estate Commission.
- Application Fee: $170 for an active license, $140 for an inactive license
Post-Licensing Education
Complete 25 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 36 hours of continuing education every four years before renewing your license. This includes mandatory courses and elective courses to stay updated with industry changes and legal requirements.
Georgia Real Estate Education Options
Online Options
Georgia offers a range of top-tier online real estate education options, with a variety respected schools providing comprehensive digital courses designed to help you earn your real estate license.
Aceable Agent stands out as a top choice in Georgia, with impressive pass rates, excellent customer reviews, and high-quality course materials that make it a standout option for aspiring real estate agents.
Georgia residents are fortunate to have access to Aceable Agent’s courses, which are only available in select states, including Georgia.
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.
For those interested in other options, we’ve secured special discounts for each. The CE Shop is a great affordable alternative, especially when you pair our 30% discount with their 20% military discount for extra savings.
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 Georgia, 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 Georgia 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 Georgia 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 Georgia.
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
Atlanta:
- Metro Brokers Academy of Real Estate: Offers in-person pre-licensing and continuing education courses.
- Emory Continuing Education: Provides in-person real estate courses, including pre-licensing education.
Savannah:
- Savannah Technical College: Offers in-person pre-licensing and continuing education classes.
- Savannah Area REALTORS®: Provides in-person real estate education.
Augusta:
- Augusta Real Estate Academy: Offers a variety of in-person educational courses for pre-licensing and continuing education.
Reciprocity
Full Reciprocity
Georgia offers full reciprocity with the following states:
- Alabama
- Arkansas
- Connecticut
- Florida
- Illinois
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Mississippi
- Nebraska
- New York
- North Carolina
- Ohio
- Pennsylvania
- South Carolina
- Tennessee
- West Virginia
If you hold an active real estate license in one of these states, you can apply for a Georgia real estate license without additional education or examination requirements.
You must submit an application and pass a background check.
Partial Reciprocity
Georgia 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 Georgia real estate exam.
You will need to pass the Georgia state-specific portion of the exam and fulfill other state-specific requirements.
For detailed information and required forms, visit the Georgia Real Estate Commission Reciprocity Information.
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Broker's License
To become a real estate broker in Georgia, you must:
- Have at least three years of active real estate salesperson experience within the last five years
- Complete 60 hours of broker pre-license education
- Pass the Georgia Real Estate Broker Examination
- Submit a broker license application to the Georgia Real Estate Commission
Criminal Record
The Georgia 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 Georgia Real Estate Commission directly to discuss your specific circumstances and determine your eligibility.
Cost Breakdown
Item | Cost Range |
|---|---|
Total | $761 – $1,366 |
Pre-License Education | $300 – $600 |
Exam Fee | $121 |
Background Check | $50 – $75 |
Application Fee | $140 – $170 |
Post-Licensing Education | $100 – $200 |
Continuing Education | $50 – $200 per cycle |
Resources and Contacts
- Georgia Real Estate Commission:
- Street Address: 229 Peachtree Street, N.E., International Tower, Suite 1000, Atlanta GA 30303-1605
- Telephone: (404) 656-3916
- FAX: (404) 656-6650
- Email: grecmail@grec.state.ga.us
- Contact GA Real Estate Board
- License Renewal Website
- License Lookup Website
- PSI Examination Services: (800) 733-9267
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 75 hours of pre-license courses
- Exam pass notification from PSI
- Fingerprint submission and background check confirmation
- Completed application form for the Georgia Real Estate Commission
- Payment for application fee
Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Real Estate Agent in Georgia
- 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 75 hours of pre-license courses approved by the Georgia Real Estate Commission.
- Schedule and Pass the Examination: Register for the Georgia Real Estate Salesperson Examination through PSI. 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 $121.
- Submit to a Background Check: Arrange for fingerprinting and a criminal background check through the Georgia Crime Information Center. Ensure all required documentation is submitted to the Georgia Real Estate Commission.
- Submit Your Application: Complete and submit the real estate license application to the Georgia Real Estate Commission, including the application fee of $170 for an active license or $140 for an inactive license.
- Find a Sponsoring Broker: To activate your license, find a licensed Georgia 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 25 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 Georgia.
- Complete Continuing Education: Every four years, complete 36 hours of continuing education, including mandatory and elective courses, to maintain and renew your license.
Georgia Real Estate Agent Salary
In Georgia, real estate agents earn an average salary of $69,455 per year, with a common range between $30,000 and $140,000.
The median salary is around $65,000, reflecting a fair distribution of earnings. Top earners, particularly in bustling markets like Atlanta, can exceed $160,000 annually.
Georgia’s real estate market benefits from a growing population and strong economic development, offering substantial earning potential for successful agents.
The state’s moderate cost of living further enhances the attractiveness of these earnings, making Georgia a favorable market for real estate professionals.
FAQs
Can I become a real estate agent in Georgia if I have a felony?
The Georgia 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 Georgia?
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 Georgia?
The total estimated cost ranges from $761 to $1,366, including education, exam fees, background checks, and application fees.
Does Georgia have reciprocity with other states?
Georgia has full reciprocity with several states and partial reciprocity with others. You may need to pass the Georgia state-specific portion of the real estate exam and meet other requirements.
Summary
Becoming a real estate agent in Georgia 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 Georgia.
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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.
