Pursuing a real estate career in Orlando offers remarkable professional opportunities and truly unlimited earning potential. While becoming a real estate agent is a strong career choice anywhere, building your business in Orlando comes with added advantages.
Orlando’s housing market remains highly competitive, with a median home price of $423,000—a 5.6% year-over-year increase. This growth creates more earning opportunities, supported by Orlando’s status as one of the fastest-growing regions in the U.S.
In this guide, we outline how to become a real estate agent in Orlando, including licensing requirements and the step-by-step process. Additionally, we will share what you can expect to earn in this dynamic and expanding market.
How to Become a Real Estate Agent in Orlando, FL
Before beginning your real estate career, it is essential to understand the licensing requirements and what the process entails. Transitioning into a commission-based profession demands preparation, focus, and confidence in your decision.
To help you determine whether becoming a real estate agent in Orlando is the right path, we outline the eligibility criteria and licensing process below. For additional insight, we encourage you to explore our related guides:
What Do You Need to Be a Real Estate Agent in Orlando, FL?
18 Years Old
Before starting the real estate licensing process, you must meet the minimum age requirement. Florida law requires applicants to be at least 18 years old to qualify for a real estate license.
High School Diploma or Equivalent
Applicants must hold a high school diploma or equivalent (GED). There is no requirement for a college degree. This career path is accessible to motivated individuals who are ready to enter the real estate industry without pursuing traditional higher education.
For additional information, visit: “Do You Need a Degree to Be a Real Estate Agent?”
U.S. Social Security Number
In Florida, all real estate license applicants must hold a valid United States Social Security number. The state does not accept ITINs or federal tax ID numbers for licensing purposes.
Completed Real Estate Education Requirements
Prospective real estate agents in Florida must meet specific education requirements before applying for licensure. The state mandates a 63-hour pre-licensing course through an approved real estate school. (Applicants with a four-year degree in real estate may qualify for a course waiver.)
This curriculum covers foundation topics including real estate law, industry principles, and transactional practices. It establishes the knowledge base required to operate confidently and compliantly in the profession.
Verified Background Check
To work as a real estate agent in Florida, you must complete a state-required background check. This includes submitting electronic fingerprints. Having a completely clear record is not mandatory.
However, the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) evaluates each case individually to determine eligibility to continue the licensing process.
Passing Score on the Real Estate Licensing Exam
You must pass the Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC) exam with a minimum score of 75%. A passing score confirms that you understand core real estate principles and are prepared to begin practicing as a professional agent.
Real Estate Broker Affiliation
Before you can legally begin practicing real estate in Florida, you must sign an affiliation agreement with a licensed broker. This step activates your license and authorizes you to represent buyers and sellers in real estate transactions.
Completed Continuing Education (Every Two Years)
Once you have obtained a Florida real estate license, the state requires continuing education every two years. These 14-hour courses keep your license active. Moreover, they ensure you remain current on industry regulations, best practices, and market trends.
How to Be a Real Estate Agent in Orlando, FL
Take the 63-hour pre-licensing course.
The first step to becoming a real estate agent is completing the required pre-licensing course. This must be done through one of the FREC-approved real estate schools. Additionally, students can take coursework online or at their own pace in person with scheduled instruction.
Throughout the program, you’ll study real estate law, transactional procedures, industry regulations, and foundational concepts. Once completing the program, these topics will be on the state licensing exam.
Submit your fingerprints for a background check.
Before submitting your real estate license application, you must complete electronic fingerprinting through an approved LiveScan provider. This step authorizes a state and federal background check to verify your eligibility to become a licensed real estate agent.
Apply for your real estate license through the DBPR.
After completing the pre-licensing course and fingerprinting, you may submit your real estate salesperson application to the DBPR online. Once your application is reviewed, you’ll receive authorization to schedule your state licensing exam.
Take the real estate exam.
Pearson VUE administers the Florida state licensing exam at approved testing centers. Available testing centers in Orlando include the Pearson VUE Test Center-Orlando, located on Southland Boulevard, or the University of Central Florida.
The test consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and is completed electronically, allowing you to receive your results immediately. If you do not pass on the first attempt, you may reschedule and retake the exam as many times as needed.
Affiliate with a brokerage.
After passing the state licensing exam, real estate brokers will begin reaching out to discuss affiliation. This is one of the most crucial decisions in the licensing process. You’ll select the brokerage that will guide and support your business.
Your broker provides the training, resources, and systems you need to facilitate real estate transactions confidently. They also determine your commission split, which directly impacts your income on every closing.
At Charles Rutenberg Realty, the decision becomes simple. For more than 20 years, we have set the standard for excellence in Orlando. We offer comprehensive training, administrative support, and a respected brand presence. And with our 100% commission model, you keep more of what you earn without sacrificing professional support.
To learn what to expect during this stage, read our guide, “Real Estate Recruiting: What Today’s New Agents Must Know.”
For additional information, read this post, “How to Choose a Real Estate Brokerage to Work for as a New Agent.”
Activate your license.
Once you sign your affiliation agreement, your broker will activate your license with the DBPR. After activation, you will receive an email confirming your license number and active status. You are now legally authorized to begin assisting buyers and sellers throughout the Orlando market.
Take the post-license courses.
Florida requires newly licensed real estate agents to complete a 45-hour post-licensing course within 18 to 24 months of obtaining their license. This advanced coursework covers essential topics such as contract law, fair housing regulations, and property management.
A final exam is required. Agents must earn a minimum score of 75% to receive credit and maintain an active license.
See our guide, “How Much Does It Cost to Become a Realtor?” for the important financial and regulatory commitments to consider.
How Much Do Real Estate Agents Make in Orlando?
New real estate agents in Orlando typically earn between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, while top performers often exceed $100,000 per year.
The advantage of building a career in a high-demand market like Orlando is the unlimited income potential. Your earnings are tied to production, meaning the more transactions you close and the more high-value properties you represent, the faster your income can scale.
An effective way to maximize your earnings is to partner with a 100% commission brokerage, such as Charles Rutenberg Realty. Instead of splitting commissions 50/50 as a new agent—or 80/20 as an experienced agent—you retain 100% of what you earn, minus administrative and membership fees.
A career in real estate offers a powerful combination of financial growth, business ownership, and professional independence. It can be the first step toward long-term financial freedom and a more flexible, rewarding future.
Begin your real estate career in Orlando with Charles Rutenberg Realty and keep 100% of your commission.
Obtaining your Florida real estate license requires time, focus, and persistence. Once you are licensed, you have the opportunity to build your business, serve clients, and begin earning commissions.
Choosing the right brokerage from the start can dramatically accelerate your success. When you affiliate with Charles Rutenberg Realty Orlando, you gain access to professional training, administrative support, and modern agent tools. Moreover, you will have access to our 100% commission model, allowing you to retain more of your income.
Start your career with confidence and a brokerage committed to your growth. Complete our contact form to learn how Charles Rutenberg Realty can support your long-term success in real estate.