A real estate pre licensing course is the first formal step toward becoming a licensed agent. It is the required education you complete before scheduling a state licensing exam. If you are comparing a real estate license course in 2026, this guide explains what pre-licensing is, how hours vary by state, and what to look for in a program that fits your schedule.
If you want a Florida-approved option, enroll with Casa Academy for a flexible online course built for busy students.
What is a real estate pre-licensing course?
Pre-licensing education is a state-mandated class that covers real estate principles, laws, and practices. You take it before the licensing exam and complete a final or end-of-course exam to show you understand the material. Every state sets its own curriculum and hour requirements, so the exact format can look different depending on where you plan to get licensed.
Most courses include a mix of reading, videos, quizzes, and practice questions. The goal is to prepare you for both the licensing exam and the day-to-day responsibilities of working with clients.
How many hours are required by state?
Real estate pre-licensing requirements vary widely. Some states require as few as 40 hours, while others require over 100 hours of coursework. Many states fall into the 60 to 90 hour range, but the only reliable source is your state real estate commission or licensing board.
If you are planning to move or get licensed in multiple states, note that hours do not always transfer. You may need to take additional education even if you have completed a full course elsewhere.
Florida’s 63-hour pre-licensing requirement
Florida requires a 63-hour pre-licensing course for sales associates. The course must be approved by the Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC) and includes an end-of-course exam. You must pass the course exam before you can schedule the state licensing exam.
For a step-by-step view of the Florida process, review Florida real estate license requirements for 2026.
What a pre-licensing course covers
A quality real estate license course teaches the fundamentals you need for the exam and for real-world transactions. Expect the curriculum to include:
- Real estate principles, property rights, and ownership.
- Contracts, disclosures, and agency relationships.
- Financing basics, mortgages, and lending terminology.
- Valuation, appraisals, and pricing strategies.
- Fair housing laws, ethics, and professional standards.
- State-specific license law and administrative rules.
Online vs classroom pre-licensing courses
Both online and classroom formats can meet licensing requirements, but they serve different learning styles. Online courses are flexible and let you study at your own pace, which is ideal for busy schedules or students balancing work and family. Classroom courses offer live interaction and a set schedule, which some students find helps with accountability.
When comparing formats, think about how you learn best. If you need the structure of a weekly class, a classroom or live-virtual option may help. If you want to move quickly or study at night, online learning is usually the better fit.
How to choose the right provider
Not all pre-licensing courses are equal. Look for providers that are state-approved, offer clear support, and make it easy to track progress. Ask about the course format, access length, and whether you can pause and resume without losing work.
- Verify the provider is approved by your state.
- Check for practice questions and exam prep tools.
- Look for instructor or support access when you get stuck.
- Compare pricing and what is included in the course package.
If you are focused on Florida, Casa Academy is built for the 63-hour requirement and includes modern study tools to help you stay consistent.
Next steps after pre-licensing
Once you finish the course, you will schedule the state exam and prepare your licensing application. Plan time for fingerprinting, background checks, and finding a sponsoring broker if your state requires one.
For a broader overview, read how to get a real estate license in 2026 and map out your timeline.
FAQs
Q: How long does a real estate pre licensing course take?
A: The time depends on the number of required hours and your pace. Some students finish in a few weeks, while others spread it out over a couple of months to balance work and family.
Q: Can I take a real estate license course online?
A: Yes. Most states allow online pre-licensing courses, as long as the provider is approved. Always confirm your state’s rules before enrolling.
Q: Do pre-licensing hours transfer between states?
A: Not always. Some states recognize education from other states, but many require you to complete additional hours or a state-specific class.
Q: What happens after I finish the course?
A: You will pass the end-of-course exam, apply for the state exam, and complete any background or fingerprint requirements before taking the licensing test.
Q: Is the Florida pre-licensing course hard?
A: It is detailed but manageable with steady study. A consistent schedule and practice questions make the material easier to retain.