Florida has a thriving real estate market, and if you’re planning to become a licensed real estate agent in the state, you need to know the requirements. The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) regulates the real estate industry in the state, ensuring that all licensees operate under ethical principles and follow the state’s legal requirements. Here’s everything you need to know about Florida’s real estate license requirements.
Education Requirements
Florida requires candidates to complete a 63-hour Pre-Licensing Course from a state-approved provider. The course covers various topics, including real estate principles, real estate law, and practice. Candidates must complete the course with a passing grade before they take the state license exam.
State Exam
After completing the 63-hour course, candidates must pass the state license exam. The exam is divided into two parts: the national and state portions. Candidates must score at least 70% on each section to pass the exam. The state exam has 40 questions, while the national exam has 80 questions.
Experience Requirement
After passing the state license exam, candidates must complete a post-licensing education course within the first six months of licensure. The course is 45 hours and covers more in-depth topics such as real estate investment analysis, taxes, and real estate transactions. Florida does not have a specific experience requirement for real estate salespeople.
Licensing Fees
Florida’s licensing fees are $105 for a sales associate, $205 for a broker associate, and $305 for a broker. The fees include application fees, fingerprinting costs, and licensing fees, among others.
Continuing Education
Once you become a licensed real estate agent in Florida, you need to complete 14 hours of continuing education every two years. The course must include three hours of core law and the remaining hours from a state-approved provider offering specialty courses.
License Renewal
Florida real estate licenses are valid for two years, and agents must renew their licenses before the expiration date. Failure to renew a license can result in the licensee’s suspension.
In conclusion, Florida’s real estate license requirements are relatively straightforward, as long as candidates complete the 63-hour Pre-Licensing Course, pass the state license exam, and meet the licensing fees. By adhering to the state’s regulatory guidelines, agents can thrive in Florida’s real estate market and provide professional guidance to their clients.
