Louisiana Real Estate Licenses
For those pursuing a Louisiana real estate license, this guide offers a thorough overview of the requirements, including real estate continuing education.
It’s useful for everyone across the state, with additional insights for major cities like New Orleans (LA).
We cover the best real estate classes and online courses available, providing you with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in Louisiana’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 Louisiana, 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, Louisiana 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 courses approved by the Louisiana Real Estate Commission (LREC). These courses include:
- Salesperson Pre-License Course (90 hours)
Examination
Pass the Louisiana 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 75%.
- Exam Fee: $85
Background Check
Submit fingerprints for a criminal background check through the Louisiana State Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). This is required to ensure you meet the ethical standards required for licensure.
Application
After passing the exam and completing the background check, submit your license application to the Louisiana Real Estate Commission.
- Application Fee: $90
Post-Licensing Education
Complete 45 hours of post-licensing education within the first 180 days of licensure. This education is necessary for maintaining your license.
Continuing Education
To maintain your license, complete 12 hours of continuing education every year before renewing your license. This includes mandatory courses and elective courses to stay updated with industry changes and legal requirements.
Louisiana Real Estate Education Options
Online Options
Louisiana provides some solid options for online real estate education, with two of the leading schools offering comprehensive digital courses. Colibri Real Estate stands out as our top choice, featuring a well-rounded curriculum, excellent customer reviews, and a reputation for helping students excel on their exams.
For those seeking a more budget-friendly option, The CE Shop is a great alternative, offering quality courses at a more affordable price. Plus, you can save even more with our 30% discount, which can also be combined with their 20% military discount for additional savings.
While both schools deliver excellent value, Colibri Real Estate might be the better option for those who prefer a more detailed and structured learning experience. However, if keeping costs down is a priority, The CE Shop remains a strong choice, offering reliable support and a solid foundation to start your real estate career.
1. The CE Shop – Best Budget Course
The CE Shop is the most affordable option for real estate education in Louisiana, 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 Louisiana 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
New Orleans:
- Burk Baker School of Real Estate & Appraising: Offers in-person pre-licensing and continuing education courses.
- Nunez Community College: Provides in-person real estate courses, including pre-licensing education.
Baton Rouge:
- Donaldson Educational Services: Offers in-person pre-licensing and continuing education classes.
- Baton Rouge Community College: Provides in-person real estate education.
Shreveport:
- Northwest Louisiana Technical College: Offers a variety of in-person educational courses for pre-licensing and continuing education.
Reciprocity
Full Reciprocity
Louisiana offers full reciprocity with the following states:
- Alabama
- Arkansas
- Colorado
- Georgia
- Iowa
- Mississippi
- New Mexico
- Pennsylvania
If you hold an active real estate license in one of these states, you can apply for a Louisiana real estate license without additional education or examination requirements. You must submit an application and pass a background check.
Partial Reciprocity
Louisiana offers partial reciprocity with other states. If you hold an active real estate license in another state, you may qualify for a waiver of some of the pre-licensing education requirements.
You will still need to pass the Louisiana state-specific portion of the real estate exam and fulfill other state-specific requirements.
For detailed information and required forms, visit the Louisiana Real Estate Commission Reciprocity Information.
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Broker's License
To become a real estate broker in Louisiana, you must:
- Have at least four years of active real estate salesperson experience within the last five years
- Complete 150 hours of broker pre-license education
- Pass the Louisiana Real Estate Broker Examination
- Submit a broker license application to the Louisiana Real Estate Commission
Criminal Record
The Louisiana 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 Louisiana Real Estate Commission directly to discuss your specific circumstances and determine your eligibility.
Cost Breakdown
Item | Cost Range |
|---|---|
Total | $875 – $1,575 |
Pre-License Education | $400 – $700 |
Exam Fee | $85 |
Background Check | $50 – $100 |
Application Fee | $90 |
Post-Licensing Education | $200 – $400 |
Continuing Education | $50 – $200 per cycle |
Resources and Contacts
- Louisiana Real Estate Commission: (225) 925-1923 | Email Form
- Street Address: 9071 Interline Ave, Baton Rouge, LA 70809
- Telephone: (225) 925-1923 or (800) 821-4529
- FAX: (225) 925-4501
- Contact LREC
- 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 90 hours of pre-license courses
- Exam pass notification from PSI
- Fingerprint submission and background check confirmation
- Completed application form for the Louisiana Real Estate Commission
- Payment for application fee
Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Real Estate Agent in Louisiana
- 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 90 hours of pre-license courses approved by the Louisiana Real Estate Commission.
- Schedule and Pass the Examination: Register for the Louisiana 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 $85.
- Submit to a Background Check: Arrange for fingerprinting and a criminal background check through a Louisiana State Police-approved vendor. Ensure all required documentation is submitted to the Louisiana Real Estate Commission.
- Submit Your Application: Complete and submit the real estate license application to the Louisiana Real Estate Commission, including the application fee of $90.
- Find a Sponsoring Broker: To activate your license, find a licensed Louisiana real estate broker to work under. This is required for both temporary and permanent licensure.
- Complete Post-Licensing Education: Within the first 180 days of obtaining your license, complete 45 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 Louisiana.
- Complete Continuing Education: Every year, complete 12 hours of continuing education, including mandatory and elective courses, to maintain and renew your license.
Louisiana Real Estate Agent Salary
In Louisiana, real estate agents earn an average salary of $87,993 per year, with typical earnings ranging from $35,000 to $160,000.
The median salary is $80,000, suggesting a fairly even distribution of income. Top agents, particularly in markets like New Orleans, can earn upwards of $180,000 annually.
Louisiana’s real estate market is diverse, offering varied opportunities across urban and rural areas.
The state’s relatively low cost of living enhances the value of these earnings, making it a favorable environment for real estate professionals.
FAQs
Can I become a real estate agent in Louisiana if I have a felony?
The Louisiana 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 Louisiana?
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 Louisiana?
The total estimated cost ranges from $875 to $1,575, including education, exam fees, background checks, and application fees.
Does Louisiana have reciprocity with other states?
Louisiana has full reciprocity with several states and partial reciprocity with others. You may need to pass the Louisiana state-specific portion of the real estate exam and meet other requirements.
Summary
Becoming a real estate agent in Louisiana 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 Louisiana.
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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.
