Wondering how long the Florida real estate license application timeline takes? This guide breaks down each step, with realistic time ranges from course start to license activation.
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Florida license application timeline at a glance
Most applicants finish in 4 to 10 weeks depending on course pace, fingerprinting turnaround, and test scheduling.
- Pre-licensing course: 1-4 weeks.
- Course final exam + certificate: 1-3 days.
- Fingerprints and FDLE processing: 3-7 days.
- DBPR application review + Authorization to Test: 2-4 weeks.
- Pearson VUE scheduling: 1-14 days after ATT.
- License activation with a broker: 1-7 days.
Step-by-step timeline with typical durations
Step 1: Complete the 63-hour pre-licensing course
- Fast track: 1-2 weeks for full-time study.
- Typical pace: 3-4 weeks for part-time study.
- Allow extra time if you can only study a few hours per week.
Step 2: Pass the course final exam
- Many students finish the final exam the same day.
- Plan 1-3 extra days if you need a retake window.
Step 3: Submit fingerprints (Livescan)
- Schedule an appointment within 1-3 days in most areas.
- FDLE processing typically takes 3-5 business days.
Step 4: Apply to DBPR (Form RE 1)
- Application submission: 1 day once paperwork is ready.
- DBPR review and approval: 2-4 weeks.
Step 5: Receive Authorization to Test (ATT)
- ATT usually arrives within a few days of application approval.
- If you have missing items, it can add a week or more.
Step 6: Schedule the state exam with Pearson VUE
- Test centers often have dates within 1-2 weeks.
- Remote availability may be sooner or later depending on demand.
Step 7: Take the state exam
- Exam day plus same-day results at most testing centers.
- If you need a retake, schedule it within 1-3 weeks.
Step 8: Activate your license with a broker
- Activation paperwork can be done in 1-7 days once you have sponsorship.
- Your license status updates after DBPR processes the activation.
What can slow the timeline?
- Waiting too long to schedule fingerprints.
- Application errors or missing documents.
- Busy testing centers during peak months.
- Delays in securing a sponsoring broker.
How to move faster
- Book fingerprints as soon as you start the course.
- Gather documents before submitting your DBPR application.
- Check multiple test centers and dates when scheduling.
Need a structured plan? Talk to Casa Academy and start with a flexible online course.
FAQs
Q: What is the fastest possible timeline?
A: Highly motivated students can finish in as little as 4 weeks if they complete the course quickly and schedule fingerprints and testing without delays.
Q: How long does DBPR take to approve applications?
A: Most applications take about 2-4 weeks, but missing items or background review can extend the timeline.
Q: Do I need to wait for the application before scheduling the exam?
A: You need the Authorization to Test before scheduling. Once it arrives, schedule right away for the earliest openings.
Q: Can I activate my license immediately after passing the exam?
A: Yes, once you have a sponsoring broker, you can submit activation paperwork and usually see the status update within days.