Get Licensed - Real Estate Licensing Guides
Every state has different requirements for becoming a licensed real estate agent. We built step-by-step guides for 11 states covering education requirements, exam details, costs, and timelines.
01 / How It Works
The licensing process is straightforward, though timelines and requirements vary by state.
Most states require you to be 18+, have a high school diploma or GED, and pass a background check. No college degree needed.
Take state-approved courses covering real estate principles, contracts, ethics, and your state's laws. Available online in most states.
A two-part exam covering national real estate principles and state-specific laws. Most states require 70-75% to pass.
Your license must be held by a brokerage. This decision affects your commission, training, technology, and income potential.
The single biggest factor in your success - see step five of the guides.
Submit your application, pay fees, and start your career. Most states process applications within 2-4 weeks.
02 / Licensing Guides by State
Each guide covers your state's specific requirements, approved schools, exam details, costs, and step-by-step instructions.
135 hours pre-licensing
Minimum age: 18+
View licensing guide168 hours pre-licensing
Minimum age: 18+
View licensing guide63 hours pre-licensing
Minimum age: 18+
View licensing guide75 hours pre-licensing
Minimum age: 18+
View licensing guide90 hours pre-licensing
Minimum age: 18+
View licensing guide90 hours pre-licensing
Minimum age: 18+
View licensing guide40 hours pre-licensing
Minimum age: 18+
View licensing guide72 hours pre-licensing
Minimum age: 18+
View licensing guide120 hours pre-licensing
Minimum age: 18+
View licensing guide90 hours pre-licensing
Minimum age: 18+
View licensing guide180 hours pre-licensing
Minimum age: 18+
View licensing guideDon't see your state? We're adding more guides. Book a call and we'll walk you through your state's requirements.
03 / Schools
Every licensing guide is paired with a school review for the same state. Know the requirements, then pick the best school.
Best Real Estate Schools by State04 / Questions
It depends on your state. Pre-licensing education ranges from 40 hours (Michigan) to 180 hours (Texas). Most people complete their coursework in 4-12 weeks studying part-time, then schedule the state exam within a few weeks. Total timeline is typically 2-4 months from start to licensed.
Total costs typically range from $300-$1,500 depending on the state. This includes pre-licensing courses ($100-$500), state exam fees ($50-$100), license application ($50-$300), background check ($30-$80), and any additional materials. Our state guides break down exact costs.
No. Most states only require you to be 18 or 19 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and complete state-approved pre-licensing education. No college degree is required in any state.
First-time pass rates vary by state, typically ranging from 50% to 75%. The exam covers national real estate principles and state-specific laws. Strong exam prep and practice tests significantly improve your chances. Our state guides include exam tips and recommended prep resources.
05 / After the License
The brokerage you choose after getting licensed is the single biggest factor in your success. Talk to us about what a career at eXp looks like with the Smart Agent Alliance.
