Real estate is one of the more accessible industries to enter. There is no degree requirement, and the licensing process is clearly defined. The career itself offers flexible hours, full control of your business, and unlimited income potential. However, before any of that becomes reality, you need to understand the real estate licensing process and how long it takes.
The path to becoming a licensed real estate agent requires completing a state-approved educational course and passing a licensing exam. Ultimately, the timeline varies depending on how much time you can dedicate to each step. Understanding that upfront helps you plan with accurate expectations rather than optimistic ones.
In this guide, we outline the real estate licensing requirements and walk through a realistic timeline from start to finish. By the end, you will have a clear picture of how far away a new career as a Realtor actually is. Additionally, you will know exactly what steps to take to get there.
How Long Does It Take to Get Your Realtor License?
On average, becoming a Realtor in Florida takes between eight and ten weeks. That said, timelines vary from person to person. Candidates who can dedicate full-time attention to the pre-licensing course, exam prep, and broker selection will move through the process more quickly. Those balancing coursework alongside other commitments should expect a longer timeline.
One advantage of the licensing process is that there are no external deadlines, so you can move at your own pace. This allows you to build a genuine understanding of real estate fundamentals before stepping into your first transaction. Ultimately, the foundation matters far more than rushing through a process that shapes your entire career ahead.
How Hard Is It to Get Your Realtor License?
Getting your Realtor license requires consistent effort, focused study, and genuine commitment—but most consider it fairly straightforward. Florida clearly defines the licensing path, and the pre-licensing education course covers the material you need to know for the exam.
That said, candidates who are unfamiliar with basic real estate law and transaction fundamentals may find certain concepts more challenging. This could require additional study time, prolonging your timeline.
Additionally, if you do not pass the state exam on the first attempt, you may retake it as needed. The process favors accessibility over difficulty. However, it does reward preparation and determination.
Becoming a Realtor requires a financial investment, along with your time. For a full breakdown of what to expect, review our guide “How Much Does It Cost to Get a Realtor License?”
What Do You Need to Get Your Realtor License?
Be at Least 18 Years Old
Regardless of which state you apply in, all real estate license candidates must be at least 18 years old. This is a non-negotiable legal requirement across the county.
Valid U.S. Social Security Number
In Florida, the real estate license application requires a valid U.S. Social Security number. This requirement is specific to Florida and does not apply nationwide. Licensing requirements vary by state, so it’s important to verify the specific criteria for which you plan to practice.
High School Diploma or GED Equivalent
Becoming a Realtor does not require a college degree. Instead, all applicants must hold a high school diploma or its GED equivalent. That said, certain educational backgrounds can provide a meaningful advantage in the field.
For a closer look at how continued education supports a real estate career, review our guide “What Degree Do You Need to Be a Realtor?”
Completed 63-hour Real Estate Pre-License Course
Florida requires all real estate license candidates to complete 63 hours of pre-license education through a state-approved real estate school. The curriculum covers the foundational principles of real estate practice, transaction procedures, and real estate law. The licensing exam will contain questions regarding all of these subjects.
Background Check and Fingerprinting
Florida requires candidates to complete a background check and submit electronic fingerprints. You must complete this before sitting for the state licensing exam.
Passing Score on the Real Estate Licensing Exam
The Florida state licensing exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions. To pass the licensing exam, you must score at least 75%. Candidates take the exam electronically, so results appear immediately upon completion.
Affiliation with a Real Estate Broker
Before you can legally begin practicing and earning real estate commissions, you must affiliate with a licensed broker. That affiliation not only satisfies the legal requirement but also provides professional structure and support. And that is particularly valuable during the start of your real estate career.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Realtor License?
Pre-Licensing Real Estate Education (2-8 weeks)
The 63-hour pre-licensing course education requirement is available through a variety of formats. Online courses, particularly self-paced options, tend to move the fastest and are generally more cost-effective. In-person courses offer a different advantage: direct interaction with instructors and the ability to ask questions.
The format you choose is a personal decision. However, it will directly affect how quickly you complete this stage of the process.
Background Check and Application Approval (1–6 weeks)
Once your pre-licensing course is complete, you can submit your application for a real estate license to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). The application must include a background check and electronic fingerprints submitted through an approved Livescan provider.
The state’s review of the application and background check takes approximately 30 days. However, processing times can vary depending on the current volume.
Exam Preparation and Scheduling (1-4 weeks)
Once the state approves your application, you can schedule your licensing exam. Some candidates choose to take an additional week or two to focus on exam preparation. However, this decision depends entirely on your confidence level and how thoroughly you covered the material during the course.
Pearson VUE administers the Florida real estate salesperson exam daily, giving you flexibility in scheduling when you feel ready.
Real Estate Brokerage Affiliation (1-3 weeks)
After passing the exam, the next step is affiliating with a broker. This decision deserves careful consideration. The brokerage you choose will directly influence your training, support, earning potential, and overall trajectory in the industry. Take the time to interview multiple brokers and ask the right questions before committing.
For a detailed look at what goes into this decision, review our guide “Real Estate Recruiting: What New Agents Must Know.”
How to Get a Realtor License
Complete a State-Approved Real Estate Education Course
Every real estate license candidate in Florida must complete a 63-hour pre-licensing course. The information in this course serves as the foundation for your industry knowledge. Meanwhile, it also prepares you for the state licensing exam.
Submit Real Estate Salesperson Application and Background Check
Once the pre-licensing course is complete, you can submit your real estate license application to the state of Florida. The application must include a background check and electronic fingerprints.
Not every state requires a background check as part of the licensing process. Therefore, if you plan to practice outside of Florida, verify the specific requirements for your state before proceeding.
Pass the Real Estate License Exam
Once your application receives approval, you can schedule your licensing exam through Pearson VUE. To do so, select a testing center and a date and time that works for you.
On exam day, bring two valid forms of identification—a driver’s license, passport, or state ID card are all acceptable. You will have three and a half hours to complete 100 multiple-choice questions electronically. Results are available immediately upon finishing the exam, and you need a minimum score of 75% to pass.
Join a Brokerage to Activate License
After passing the licensing exam, you can move forward with affiliating with a real estate brokerage. After signing your affiliate agreement, your broker activates your license with the state. At this point, Florida law allows you to begin practicing real estate.
Apply to the National Association of Realtors
Many licensed real estate professionals choose to take the additional step of joining the National Association of Realtors (NAR). Membership grants you the right to use the Realtor designation in your marketing and professional branding. This distinction carries recognition and credibility with many buyers and sellers, which can be especially helpful as you start your real estate career.
Becoming a Realtor also means committing to the NAR’s Code of Ethics. This code establishes a clear standard of conduct centered on acting in your clients’ best interests. For agents building a reputation in a competitive market like Orlando, that commitment is a meaningful differentiator.
Want a deeper look at what distinguishes a Realtor from an agent? Review our guide “What’s the Difference Between a Realtor and a Real Estate Agent?”
Begin your real estate career with Charles Rutenberg Realty and keep 100% of your commission.
Getting your Realtor license is an achievable goal for anyone willing to put in focused effort. For most candidates, the process takes approximately two months. However, the timeline shifts depending on your schedule and how much time you can dedicate to each step. Nonetheless, real estate remains accessible for professionals who want full control over their income and long-term growth.
When you are ready to discuss brokerage affiliation, Charles Rutenberg Realty Orlando is worth a serious conversation. For more than two decades, we have built a standard of excellence in Florida that buyers and sellers recognize and trust. Our agents benefit from dedicated support, practical resources, and a 100% commission model. That means you keep more of what you earn from your very first transaction. No brokerage splits, ever.
Are you ready to take the next step? Schedule a call with our broker to discuss a career at Charles Rutenberg Realty today.