If you are interested in exploring a part-time side hustle or building a long-term, thriving career path in Florida, now is a good time to start planning and preparing for it.

Getting your state approved license is the most crucial and essential aspect of starting a new career – whether you want to work as a part-time real agent or as a full-time professional.

Now if you are wondering how to go about getting your license and embarking on a rewarding career journey, this article will answer all the frequently asked questions.

One of the most important aspects of getting licensed is completing your pre license education and training – this is where you can rely on RealEstateU for proven guidance.

Imagine the rewarding prospects and exciting career benefits offered by the state’s booming real estate market – the future is certainly prosperous and thriving for agents and brokers.

Florida’s growing real estate market

Florida offers a myriad of choices and options for residential, rental and commercial real estate for buyers of varying budgets, needs and preferences.

The Peach State is renowned for its rising popularity – thanks to the scenic natural beaches, world-class entertainment and lifestyle amenities and a strong economy.

Home to popular real estate markets like Miami, Tampa, Ohio, Jacksonville among many others, the market has been growing steadily over the years.

The rise in Florida’s real estate demand can be attributed to the favorable and pleasant climate, attractive tax benefits and an exciting lifestyle and entertainment landscape.

In fact, leading property listings platform Zillow has reported that Florida has surpassed New York to become the 2nd most popular and valued real estate market in the country!

To work as a real estate agent with clients and help them buy or sell properties anywhere in the state, you need to obtain a Florida real estate license first.

Now if you are wondering how to go about getting your license and embarking on a rewarding career journey, this article will answer all the frequently asked questions.

Although it might seem difficult or overwhelming to complete your licensing journey, if you follow a step-by-step process, it is straightforward and can be completed easily.

Why do you need a real estate license in Florida

Like most states in the country, Florida also requires individuals to obtain a valid license to legally participate in a real estate deal and earn their commission.

Real estate is a regulated industry which is governed by various state and federal laws, rules and regulations for individuals and firms.

As per the Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC), you must complete a set of steps to obtain your salesperson license in order to work with clients anywhere in the state.

If you are unable to get your license, you will not be allowed to engage in a real estate deal or offer any advice and consultation to clients.

Another key reason why you need a license to work in the industry is the fact that consumers prefer working with a licensed professional and rely on expert advice and guidance.

This means getting your license is not only a regulatory requirement, it is an essential step towards getting the most out of a career.

With that said, let us walk you through the steps required to become a licensed sales agent and build a thriving career in Florida real estate.

Steps to obtain a real estate agent license in Florida

The first step to become a licensed professional is to fulfill the minimum qualifying requirements set forth by the Florida Real Estate Commission. These are as follows:

• You must be at least 18 years or older in age
• You must have a legal proof of residency
• You must have a high school diploma or GED equivalent in education

If you meet the basic statutory requirements, the next step is to complete mandatory pre license education in Florida.

As per the FREC, you must complete a minimum of 63 hours of state approved pre license education from a classroom based, in-person college or an online real estate course.

After completing the course credits, you will receive a certificate of completion post which you can apply for the Florida salesperson licensing exam.

The FREC requires every student to take the state licensing exam and pass it by scoring at least 75 percent or above.

You can schedule the test on the FREC website as per your desired date and time by paying a one time examination fee of $58.

If you successfully pass the test, you will have to complete the next step of undergoing a federal criminal history and background verification check.

You will have to submit an electronic scan of your fingerprints along with additional documents to complete federal criminal background verification.

After your application is reviewed and approved, you will receive a Florida real estate license issued by the Florida DBPR (Department of Business and Professional Regulation).

However, to activate your license, you must find employer sponsorship from a state licensed broker or brokerage firm willing to sponsor you as their employee.