If you are searching for how to get a real estate license in 2026, you are not alone. Real estate remains one of the most flexible career paths, but the licensing process can feel unclear when you first start. This guide breaks down the universal steps, highlights what changes from state to state, and gives extra clarity for Florida students who want a clear, modern path.
Ready to begin your pre-licensing coursework? Enroll in Casa Academy to get started with Florida-approved online training and built-in exam prep.
Quick overview: the real estate licensing path
Every state sets its own requirements, but most real estate licensing paths follow the same structure. Think of the process as a checklist you can work through in order.
- Confirm eligibility requirements in your state.
- Complete the required pre-licensing education hours.
- Apply with your state regulator and pass a background check.
- Schedule and pass the state licensing exam.
- Activate your license with a sponsoring broker.
Step 1: Confirm eligibility in your state
Most states require you to be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and hold legal authorization to work in the United States. Some states add residency rules or require a clean criminal history. Always review your state real estate commission site so you do not waste time on a course you are not yet eligible to complete.
Step 2: Complete pre-licensing education
Pre-licensing education is the foundation of your license. States set a minimum number of hours and approved providers. The curriculum usually covers contracts, finance, property rights, ethics, and state law. Many students prefer online courses because they can study in short sessions, but classroom formats still exist in most states.
When choosing a provider, look for clear lesson structure, frequent quizzes, and solid exam preparation. These features reduce the amount of last-minute cramming and help you retain core concepts.
Step 3: Apply, fingerprinting, and background check
Most states require you to submit an application, pay a fee, and complete fingerprinting for a background check before you are authorized to sit for the exam. Processing times vary, so plan ahead and submit your paperwork as soon as you finish your course. Keep copies of confirmations and receipts in case the state asks for proof.
Step 4: Schedule and pass the licensing exam
State exams are typically multiple choice and cover both national real estate concepts and state-specific laws. Exam providers are usually third-party testing services, and you can choose a nearby testing center or, in some states, a remote proctored option. Practice tests and targeted review are the fastest ways to identify weak spots before you sit for the exam.
Step 5: Activate your license
Passing the exam earns you a license, but most states require you to activate it by affiliating with a sponsoring broker. This is the step that lets you legally start working with clients. Your broker may also guide you on errors and omissions insurance, local association membership, and MLS access.
Florida focus: how the steps work in Florida
Florida follows the same high-level process, with a few important details. The state requires a 63-hour pre-licensing course for sales associates, and your application is filed through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). Once you finish your course, you schedule the Florida licensing exam with the state testing vendor and must pass before you can activate your license with a broker.
For Florida-specific checklists and timelines, review these guides:
How to get a Florida real estate license step by step
Florida real estate license requirements for 2026
Florida real estate license checklist
Florida real estate license cost breakdown
What you learn in pre-licensing education
Pre-licensing courses are designed to prepare you for both the exam and the real-world basics of working in real estate. Topics can vary slightly by state, but most include a core set of concepts.
- Real estate contracts and agency relationships.
- Property ownership, title, and legal descriptions.
- Financing basics, mortgages, and lending rules.
- Valuation, appraisal methods, and market analysis.
- Federal and state fair housing rules.
- Ethics, professional conduct, and consumer protection.
Study strategies that improve pass rates
Short, consistent study sessions beat long cram sessions. Build a weekly schedule, review missed questions, and focus on the topics you consistently get wrong. If your course offers practice exams, take them under timed conditions so you are comfortable with the pace of the real test.
Florida students can accelerate preparation by pairing their course with targeted exam prep content. Casa Academy includes practice questions and explanations that mirror the Florida exam format, so you build confidence before test day.
Explore Florida course options here: Florida real estate pre-licensing enrollment.
FAQs
Q: How long does it take to get a real estate license?
A: It depends on your state and study pace. Many students finish pre-licensing education in 4 to 12 weeks, then schedule the exam soon after. Processing the application and background check can add additional time.
Q: Can I get a real estate license fully online?
A: In most states, yes. You can complete pre-licensing education online, then take the exam at a testing center or via an approved remote proctoring option when available.
Q: How much does a real estate license cost?
A: Costs vary by state and include course tuition, exam fees, fingerprinting, and application fees. Florida students can review the full expense list in the Florida cost guide linked above.
Q: Do I need a broker to take the exam?
A: No. You can take the exam first, then activate your license by affiliating with a broker after you pass.
Q: What happens after I pass the exam?
A: You file any remaining paperwork, pay activation fees, and join a sponsoring broker to begin practicing. Many brokers help new agents with onboarding, training, and access to local listing tools.