At Global Florida Realty, we often receive questions about Florida real estate license residency requirements. Many aspiring real estate professionals wonder if they need to be Florida residents to obtain a license in the Sunshine State.
In this blog post, we’ll clarify the residency requirements for Florida real estate licenses and explain the options available for both in-state and out-of-state applicants.
Understanding Florida Real Estate License Requirements
The Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC) establishes the educational standards necessary for obtaining and maintaining a real estate license in the Sunshine State. FREC oversees the licensing and regulation of real estate professionals, ensuring they uphold ethical standards and professional conduct.
Types of Florida Real Estate Licenses
Florida offers two primary types of real estate licenses: sales associate and broker. Sales associates (commonly known as real estate agents) operate under the supervision of a licensed broker. Brokers can work independently and manage their own real estate businesses.
To become a sales associate in Florida, you must complete a 63-hour pre-licensing course and pass the state exam. Broker aspirants face more rigorous requirements, including:
- At least 24 months of active experience as a sales associate
- Completion of a 72-hour broker pre-licensing course
- Passing the broker exam
Eligibility Criteria for Florida Real Estate Licenses
To qualify for a Florida real estate license, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Hold a high school diploma or equivalent
- Possess a Social Security Number (as required by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation)
A critical component of the licensing process involves a background check. All applicants must submit fingerprints for a criminal background check. This step is non-negotiable for obtaining a license in Florida.
Interestingly, Florida residency is not a prerequisite for obtaining a real estate license in the state. This policy opens doors for out-of-state professionals looking to expand their real estate career into Florida’s vibrant market.
Application Process and Fees
The journey to obtaining a Florida real estate license involves several steps and associated fees:
- State application fee: $39.37 for sales associates, $43 for brokers
- Completion of required pre-licensing education
- Passing the state exam ($57.75)
- Submitting the application to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation
The DBPR typically processes applications within 10 to 30 days. Upon approval, your license remains inactive until you activate it under a Florida licensed real estate broker or owner/developer.
As we transition to the next section, we’ll explore the specific residency requirements for Florida real estate licenses, shedding light on the options available for both in-state and out-of-state applicants.
Do You Need to Live in Florida to Get a Real Estate License?
Residency Requirements Explained
Many people believe that Florida residency is a must for obtaining a real estate license in the Sunshine State. This misconception often deters out-of-state professionals from pursuing opportunities in Florida’s vibrant real estate market. We will clarify the residency requirements and explain the options available for both in-state and out-of-state applicants.
Understanding Residency vs. Non-Residency Status
Florida law defines a resident as an individual who has lived in the state for at least four continuous calendar months within the last year. However, this definition primarily applies to other regulatory purposes and does not affect your eligibility for a real estate license. The Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC) treats all applicants equally, regardless of their residency status.
Options for Florida Residents
Florida residents will find the licensing process straightforward. They must complete the required pre-licensing education, pass the state exam, and submit their application to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). Residents may benefit from easier access to in-person pre-licensing courses and exam preparation resources (although this advantage has diminished with the rise of online education).
Paths for Out-of-State Applicants
Out-of-state applicants have several routes to obtain a Florida real estate license:
- Standard Licensing Process: Take the required pre-licensing courses online or through FREC-approved distance learning programs. After course completion, travel to Florida to take the state exam in person.
- Mutual Recognition: Florida has agreements with ten states (Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Illinois, Mississippi, Nebraska, Rhode Island, and West Virginia). Active license holders from these states may qualify for a Florida license without additional education or exams.
- Education Evaluation: Submit transcripts of real estate courses completed in another state to FREC for evaluation. They may accept some or all previous coursework, potentially reducing additional education requirements.
Activating Your License
While residency is not required to obtain a license, you must affiliate with a Florida-licensed broker to activate your license and start practicing real estate in the state. Many brokerages welcome talented professionals regardless of their residency status.
As we move forward, let’s explore the specific steps non-residents must take to obtain a Florida real estate license, including educational requirements, application processes, and examination details.
How to Get a Florida Real Estate License as a Non-Resident
Educational Requirements
The Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC) requires pre-license education for sales associates. Non-residents can complete this requirement through FREC-approved online providers. These courses cover Florida real estate principles, laws, and practices. Prices typically range from $200 to $500 (depending on the provider and format).
Popular online course providers include Real Estate Express, The CE Shop, and Kaplan Real Estate Education. These platforms offer self-paced learning, which allows students to study around their current commitments.
Application Process
After completing the pre-licensing course, applicants must submit their application to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). The application fee is $83.75 (which includes the initial license fee).
Applicants need to provide:
- A completed RE 1 form (Sales Associate Application)
- Electronic fingerprints for a background check
- Proof of completion of the pre-licensing course
- A copy of high school diploma or equivalent
The DBPR processes applications within 30 days. Applicants can check their application status online through the DBPR website.
Examination Details
Upon application approval, candidates receive an authorization to schedule the Florida real estate exam. The exam fee is $36.75. Candidates must take the exam in person at a Pearson VUE testing center in Florida.
The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions, with a 3.5-hour time limit. A passing score is 75% or higher. If candidates don’t pass on their first attempt, they can retake the exam after 24 hours for an additional fee.
Reciprocity and Mutual Recognition
Florida has reciprocity rules that vary by state. Active license holders in certain states may qualify for a Florida license without additional education or exams.
To use mutual recognition:
- Complete a 40-question Florida Law Course
- Submit a completed RE 1 form
- Provide a certification of license history from the home state
- Pay the application fee
The process typically takes 30-45 days from submission to approval.
Activating Your License
Non-resident licensees must affiliate with a Florida-licensed broker to activate their license and start practicing. Many brokerages welcome out-of-state professionals and can help navigate the final steps of the licensing process. Global Florida Realty stands out as a top choice for new licensees, offering support and guidance throughout the activation process.
Final Thoughts
Florida real estate license residency requirements do not mandate living in the state to obtain a license. This policy opens opportunities for professionals nationwide to enter Florida’s dynamic real estate market. The process involves completing pre-licensing education, passing the state exam, and submitting an application to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation.
A Florida real estate license allows you to operate in one of the most vibrant markets in the United States. Florida’s reciprocity agreements with several states can simplify the licensing process for many out-of-state professionals. The state’s attractive properties, steady influx of new residents, and thriving tourism industry create a fertile ground for real estate success.
Global Florida Realty offers comprehensive services for buying, selling, and investing in properties across desirable areas like Orlando. Their expertise extends to assisting with vacation rentals near popular attractions, property management, and investment guidance. Global Florida Realty’s experience in Florida’s real estate market makes them a valuable partner for both new and experienced real estate professionals.
