Maryland Real Estate Licenses
Looking to secure a Maryland real estate license? This guide covers all the essential steps and real estate continuing education requirements.
It’s suitable for aspiring real estate professionals across the state, with special details for major cities like Baltimore (MD).
We highlight the best real estate classes and online courses, ensuring you have access to top-quality education and resources throughout Maryland.
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 Maryland, 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, Maryland 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 Maryland Real Estate Commission (MREC). These courses include:
- Principles and Practices of Real Estate (60 hours)
Examination
Maryland Real Estate Exam Details
Exam Structure
- Total Questions: 110 multiple-choice questions
- National Portion: 80 questions
- State-Specific Portion: 30 questions
- Time Limit: 4 hours
- Passing Score: 70% on each section
Registration and Fees
- Exam Fee: $44, payable when scheduling the exam
- Registration: First, complete the pre-licensing education, then submit your initial application via the Maryland Real Estate Commission (MREC) website. Once approved, register for the exam through PSI Services.
Identification Documents
- Candidates must bring two forms of identification on exam day, including a government-issued photo ID with a signature (e.g., driver’s license or passport).
Exam Difficulty and Passing Rates
The Maryland Real Estate Exam is considered moderately challenging. Candidates must pass both the national and state portions with a minimum score of 70%.
Required Forms and Documents
- Initial Application: Submit the initial application after completing pre-licensing education. Forms and further details can be found on the MREC Initial License Applications page.
Background Check
Initial Application Submission
- Submit your initial license application to the Maryland Real Estate Commission (MREC) after completing your pre-licensing education. This allows you to receive the Exam Authorization Form required for scheduling your exam. The MREC should also provide instructions about fingerprinting, but the following is what you should expect.
Fingerprinting
- Approved Vendor: Schedule an appointment for fingerprinting through IdentoGO. The fee is approximately $50.
- Processing: The fingerprints are processed by the Maryland State Police and the FBI. The results are sent directly to the Maryland Real Estate Commission.
Review and Approval
- The Maryland Real Estate Commission reviews the background check results as part of the licensure application.
Final Application
Application Submission (Part B)
- Application Fee: $90, plus a $20 Guaranty Fund fee
- Submission: After passing the exam and completing the post-licensing education, submit Part B of the application to the MREC. Include proof of passing the exam, background check results, and proof of errors and omissions insurance.
By following these steps and ensuring all requirements are met, candidates can smoothly navigate the process of obtaining and maintaining a real estate license in Maryland.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, refer to the Maryland Real Estate Commission’s website and PSI Services.
Post-Licensing Education
Courses: New sales associate licensees must complete 15 hours of post-license education within the first year of obtaining and activating a real estate license. This includes:
- Mandatory Hours (10.5 hours)
- Agency and Contracts: 3 hours
- Ethics: 3 hours
- Legislative Updates: 3 hours
- Fair Housing: 1.5 hours
- Elective Hours (4.5 hours)
- Various elective topics approved by the Maryland Real Estate Commission (MREC)
Continuing Education
To maintain your license, complete 15 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.
Maryland Real Estate Education Options
Online Options
Maryland offers a variety of excellent online real estate education options, with most major providers offering digital courses. Kaplan is the top choice, surpassing Colibri thanks to its strong pass rates, high customer satisfaction, and top-quality course materials.
If you’re looking for more options, we’ve arranged special discounts for additional programs as well. The CE Shop is the most affordable choice, and by combining our 30% discount with their 20% military discount, you can make the most of your savings.
While all of the courses are reasonably priced, Kaplan remains our top recommendation due to its outstanding reputation and high success rates.
If you’re looking to get the best possible start in your real estate career, Kaplan is definitely worth considering.
1. The CE Shop – Best Budget Course
The CE Shop is the most affordable option for real estate education in Maryland, 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. Kaplan Real Estate
Kaplan Real Estate offers a structured learning experience for Maryland 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.
3. Colibri Real Estate
Colibri Real Estate provides flexible learning formats, including self-paced courses and live webinars, suitable for Maryland 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
Baltimore:
- Maryland REALTORS®: Offers in-person pre-licensing and continuing education courses.
- Community College of Baltimore County: Provides in-person real estate courses, including pre-licensing education.
Rockville:
- Montgomery College: Offers in-person pre-licensing and continuing education classes.
- Greater Capital Area Association of REALTORS®: Provides in-person real estate education.
Annapolis:
- Anne Arundel Community College: Offers a variety of in-person educational courses for pre-licensing and continuing education.
Reciprocity
Full Reciprocity
Maryland offers full reciprocity with the following states:
- Pennsylvania
- Oklahoma
If you hold an active real estate license in one of these states, you can apply for a Maryland real estate license without additional education or examination requirements. You must submit an application and pass a background check.
Partial Reciprocity
Maryland 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 Maryland state-specific portion of the real estate exam and fulfill other state-specific requirements.
For detailed information and required forms, visit the Maryland Real Estate Commission Reciprocity Information.
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Broker's License
To become a real estate broker in Maryland, you must:
- Have at least three years of active real estate salesperson experience within the last five years
- Complete 135 hours of broker pre-license education
- Pass the Maryland Real Estate Broker Examination
- Submit a broker license application to the Maryland Real Estate Commission
Criminal Record
The Maryland 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 Maryland Real Estate Commission directly to discuss your specific circumstances and determine your eligibility.
Cost Breakdown
Item | Cost Range |
|---|---|
Total | $734 – $1,334 |
Pre-License Education | $400 – $700 |
Exam Fee | $44 |
Background Check | $50 – $100 |
Application Fee | $90 |
Post-Licensing Education | $100 – $200 |
Continuing Education | $50 – $200 per cycle |
Resources and Contacts
- Maryland Real Estate Commission:
- Street Address: 1100 N. Eutaw St., 3rd Floor, Baltimore, MD 21201
- Telephone: (410) 230-6200
- FAX: (410) 333-0023
- Email: dlmrec-labor@maryland.gov
- License Renewal Website
- License Lookup Website
- Transcript Lookup Website
- Education Requirements
- License Fees
- Name/Address & Other Changes
- 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 60 hours of pre-license courses
- Exam pass notification from PSI
- Fingerprint submission and background check confirmation
- Completed application form for the Maryland Real Estate Commission
- Payment for application fee
Here’s the Forms and Fees page on the MREC website.
Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Real Estate Agent in Maryland
- 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 60 hours of pre-license courses approved by the Maryland Real Estate Commission.
- Schedule and Pass the Examination: Register for the Maryland 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 $44.
- Submit to a Background Check: Arrange for fingerprinting and a criminal background check through a Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services-approved vendor. Ensure all required documentation is submitted to the Maryland Real Estate Commission.
- Submit Your Application: Complete and submit the real estate license application to the Maryland Real Estate Commission, including the application fee of $90.
- Find a Sponsoring Broker: To activate your license, find a licensed Maryland 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 15 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 Maryland.
- Complete Continuing Education: Every two years, complete 15 hours of continuing education, including mandatory and elective courses, to maintain and renew your license.
Maryland Real Estate Agent Salary
In Maryland, real estate agents earn an average salary of $102,167 per year, with typical earnings ranging from $40,000 to $185,000.
The median salary is $95,000, indicating a solid earning potential across the board. Top agents, especially in areas like Baltimore and the surrounding D.C. suburbs, can make well over $200,000 annually.
Maryland’s proximity to major metropolitan areas and a high demand for housing contribute to a competitive market.
Despite a relatively high cost of living, the state’s real estate professionals enjoy substantial income opportunities.
FAQs
Can I become a real estate agent in Maryland if I have a felony?
The Maryland 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 Maryland?
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 Maryland?
The total estimated cost ranges from $734 to $1,334, including education, exam fees, background checks, and application fees.
Does Maryland have reciprocity with other states?
Maryland has full reciprocity with a few states and partial reciprocity with others. You may need to pass the Maryland state-specific portion of the real estate exam and meet other requirements.
Summary
Becoming a real estate agent in Maryland 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 Maryland.
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