How Long Does It Take to Get a Real Estate License?
If you are serious about having a career in real estate, one of the initial questions is how long it would take to get a license. Again, this depends upon the state, but generally includes several steps: coursework and exams. Sometimes, one also requires additional background checks. So, in this article, we will break down the timeline and steps on getting your real estate license.
Factors That Influence the Timeline
There are several factors that will influence how long it will take to get your real estate license, including:
State Requirements
Every state has its unique real estate licensing requirements, which range from the number of hours needed to take pre-licensing education and how the licensing exam is structured. For instance, California requires 135 hours of course completion, while Texas requires 180 hours. If you research your state’s specific requirements, you’ll be able to have a clearer idea of how much time this will take.
Your Availability
It will largely depend on the time you can devote to the required coursework, but if you take classes full-time, it may only take a few months. But if you study part-time with a full-time job, it will take more years.
Type of Education
The mode of study chosen also impacts the timeline. Traditional in-person classes, online courses, or hybrid programs have all different durations. Online courses tend to be more flexible so that you can learn at your own pace, speeding it up or slowing it down depending on your schedule.
Exams and Processing Times
Once you have completed the pre-licensing coursework, you must pass the state exam. Preparation for the exam may take some extra time depending on how well you understand the material. Once you have passed the exam, your application will need to be processed, and background checks may be required, which can add a few more weeks to the overall timeline.
Step-by-Step Timeline for Getting a Real Estate License
Complete Pre-Licensing Education The first step is to complete the required real estate pre-licensing education. This education typically covers topics such as property law, real estate ethics, contracts, and finance. The number of hours required varies by state, but on average, it takes anywhere from 3 to 6 months to complete.
In-person courses can take longer because of fixed schedules and the need to attend classes on specific days.
Online courses are more flexible, and you can finish your coursework at your own pace. Some students finish the coursework in a few weeks while others take months to complete it.
Submit Your Application
Once you have completed the coursework, you will submit an application to your state’s real estate commission. Usually, the application asks you about your education, background, and sometimes your work history.
Processing times for this application can vary, but it typically takes 2 to 4 weeks. Some states also require a background check, which could add extra time to this step.
Prepare for the Exam After your application is approved, you can schedule the real estate licensing exam. Preparation for this exam is crucial, and most students spend 2 to 4 weeks reviewing the material from their coursework.
While the state exam varies in difficulty depending on the state, it generally consists of two parts: a national portion, which covers general real estate principles, and a state-specific portion, which focuses on the laws and regulations in that state.
Sit for the Exam Once you feel prepared, you can sit for the real estate exam. The exam usually takes a few hours, and you will find out your results shortly afterward. If you pass, you can move on to the next step; if not, you may need to retake the exam.
Usually, results of examinations are released immediately after the finish time, but if you require to take a retest, it is normally taken after some days or in a week.
You receive your license Once you have passed the exam, this is the last step before receiving your real estate license. This usually takes from 1 week to a month, depending on the state and additional processing times. Some states may issue the license immediately after passing the exam, while others may need final approval and background checks before they are issued.
Average Timeline to Get a Real Estate License
Based on all the steps described above, it takes anywhere from 3 to 6 months to get a real estate license in the United States. However, this is determined by how long your application takes, how quickly your background checks are finalized, how much time you set aside to study, and other state-specific requirements.
California: Approximately 4 to 6 months.
Florida: 2-4 months
Texas: 3-6 months
Tips to Speed Up the Process
While there is no shortcut for any of the procedures, there are a few things you can do to expedite the process:
Study Consistently
Dedicate time to study every day so that you do not have to play catch up later. A steady study routine will help you to remember information and pass faster.
Choose Online Courses
If you have a busy schedule, you may want to consider the online courses. They do have flexibility, so you may go through the coursework at your pace.
Practice Exams
Many real estate schools also offer practice exams as they will help you prepare well for the real licensing exam. Taking practice tests might ensure that you pass your licensing exam the first time. You may avoid further delay.
Conclusion
Becoming a licensed real estate agent in Florida, or any other state, usually takes around 3 to 6 months. This is because the pace of completing coursework, getting approved by your state’s licensing authority, and clearing the exam depends on the person. If you do things properly, stay organized, and prepare well for your exam, you will become a real estate agent promptly.
