If you already hold a Florida sales associate license, earning a real estate broker license is the next big step. A broker license allows you to open your own brokerage, manage agents, and take on a leadership role in your market. This 2026 guide breaks down the Florida real estate broker license requirements, timeline, and what to expect so you can plan your move from associate to broker with confidence.
Need to finish your sales associate education first? Enroll in the Casa Academy Florida pre-licensing course and start building the experience required for the broker path.
For a full refresher on sales associate requirements, review the Florida real estate sales associate license requirements.
Broker vs sales associate: what changes?
A sales associate must work under a sponsoring broker and cannot operate a brokerage. A broker can supervise associates, open and manage a brokerage, and oversee transactions for a firm. Brokers also take on compliance responsibility for advertising, escrow handling, and transaction oversight. Because of the added responsibility, Florida requires more experience and education before you can take the broker exam.
Florida broker license requirements in 2026
The Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC) sets broker eligibility rules. In general, you must meet experience, education, and exam requirements before you can apply. Use this checklist as a quick snapshot:
- Hold an active Florida real estate sales associate license.
- Show at least 24 months of active real estate experience within the last five years, or qualify for an experience waiver with a four-year degree in real estate.
- Complete a FREC-approved 72-hour broker pre-licensing course.
- Pass the Florida real estate broker exam.
- Submit your broker application through the DBPR.
Experience requirement: the 24-month rule
Most applicants qualify through experience. Florida requires 24 months of active experience as a licensed real estate sales associate within the previous five years. The clock starts once your sales associate license is active, and the experience must be documented and verifiable.
If you hold a four-year degree in real estate from an accredited institution, Florida may waive the experience requirement. Check the current DBPR guidelines to confirm the degree meets FREC standards before applying.
Broker pre-licensing education (72 hours)
After you meet the experience requirement, you must complete a 72-hour Florida broker pre-licensing course from a FREC-approved provider. The course covers advanced topics like brokerage operations, finance, agency law, investment analysis, and supervision responsibilities.
You must pass the course exam before you can schedule the state broker exam. Plan to spend several weeks studying, especially if you have been out of school for a while.
Florida broker exam overview
The broker exam tests advanced knowledge beyond the sales associate level. Expect questions on brokerage management, investment analysis, state laws, and complex transaction scenarios. Many students find it helpful to use a structured study plan and targeted practice exams.
If you want a refresher on exam preparation strategies, read the Florida real estate exam prep guide.
Application and timeline
Once your course is complete, submit your broker application through the Florida DBPR. After approval, schedule the state exam with the testing vendor. Many candidates move from application to exam within four to eight weeks, depending on how quickly they complete the course and secure testing dates.
If you are starting from the sales associate level, the typical timeline is longer: 24 months of experience, the 72-hour broker course, and then the exam. Plan for a two- to three-year pathway from first license to broker status.
Why become a broker?
A broker license opens new career paths. You can start your own brokerage, hire or mentor agents, and build an equity-focused business. Brokers also gain more control over brand, pricing, and growth strategy, which can lead to higher income potential over time.
Even if you do not plan to open a brokerage immediately, a broker license can unlock leadership roles at larger firms and improve your long-term credibility with clients.
FAQs
Q: Do I need a broker license to run my own brokerage in Florida?
A: Yes. Florida requires a broker license to open and operate a brokerage. A sales associate must work under a licensed broker.
Q: How long does it take to become a broker in Florida?
A: Most candidates need at least two years of sales associate experience plus time to finish the 72-hour course and pass the exam. Plan for roughly 2-3 years from your first license.
Q: Can I take the broker course before I finish 24 months of experience?
A: You can take the broker course early, but you cannot apply for the broker exam until you meet the experience requirement or qualify for the degree waiver.
Q: Is the broker exam harder than the sales associate exam?
A: It is typically more challenging because it focuses on advanced law and brokerage management. A focused study plan and practice questions help you prepare.