Choosing a career in real estate is a significant decision—one that can offer remarkable opportunities and unlimited earning potential. However, before representing buyers and sellers, you must obtain your real estate license in the state where you plan to work.
Unlike many traditional careers that require a four-year degree, real estate offers a streamlined and accessible path. The licensing process is structured, efficient, and can be completed at your own pace.
This guide outlines each step and the time required to complete it so you can plan your transition with confidence. Understanding the timeline for obtaining your real estate license helps you set realistic expectations and develop an actionable plan to start your new career.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Real Estate License?
On average, it takes approximately eight to ten weeks to earn a real estate license in Florida. The process includes several required steps, each with its own timeline and expectations.
Your individual pace will determine how quickly you move through these stages. Some applicants dedicate full-time focus and complete the required steps sooner. Others move steadily at a part-time schedule to complete the process. You can learn more about this structure in our post, “Part-Time Real Estate Agent: Success and Earnings Guide.”
The key is understanding that this is not a race. Take the time needed to learn the fundamentals and ensure that a career in real estate is the right fit for your goals.
While many aspiring agents finish in about two and a half months, your path may be slower based on the time you invest. The process is designed to be flexible, allowing you to progress in a way that supports your future success.
When evaluating your next steps, it is equally important to understand both the financial and time commitments. Reviewing both the timeline and associated expenses in advance will help you make an informed decision about beginning your career.
For additional information, visit our comprehensive guide on realtor license cost expectations.
What Is the Real Estate License Timeline?
Verify your eligibility.
Timeline: 1 day
Before you start working as a real estate agent, you must confirm that you meet your state’s licensing requirements. To qualify in Florida, you must:
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Have a U.S. Social Security number
- Hold a high school diploma or equivalent (GED)
You should complete these steps on the very first day. If you do not meet these criteria, you’ll need to secure the necessary qualifications before moving forward. Establishing eligibility upfront ensures a smooth start to the licensing process.
Learn more about the prior education requirements in our guide, “Do You Need a Degree to Be a Real Estate Agent?”
Complete the real estate pre-licensing course.
Timeline: 1-4 weeks
The most time-consuming step in obtaining a real estate license is completing the education requirements. Every applicant must take 63 hours of pre-licensing education coursework through an approved real estate school. This training lays the foundation for industry knowledge, preparing you to begin your career with confidence and compliance.
Several course formats are available, each with its own timeline. The fastest option is self-paced online courses, which some applicants complete in as little as one week. In-person classes typically require two to four weeks, depending on whether you enroll in part-time or full-time courses.
When planning your timeline, factor in additional exam prep. Supplemental study materials and practice tests significantly increase your likelihood of passing the licensing exam on the first attempt. Ultimately, this saves time and accelerates your start in the real estate profession.
Schedule fingerprinting and background check.
Timeline: 3-5 days
Before submitting your salesperson license application, you must complete fingerprinting for a required background check. This is done through an approved LiveScan provider in Florida.
Appointment availability typically involves a wait of one to three days. Once fingerprints are captured, they are forwarded to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) and the FBI for review.
The processing time varies, but most applicants receive clearance within three to five business days. Some results arrive in as little as 24 to 48 hours.
Submit your real estate salesperson license application.
Timeline: 15-30 days
Before scheduling the real estate exam, applicants must submit their salesperson license application to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). The application can be completed and filed online for added convenience.
Depending on the timing of your background check, approval to proceed typically takes between 15 and 30 days.
Take the real estate licensing exam.
Timeline: 1-3 weeks
After completing your pre-licensing education and submitting your application, you may schedule the state exam through Pearson VUE. Many candidates benefit from an additional one to two weeks of focused exam preparation. This can improve their chances of passing the exam on the first attempt.
When ready, select an available date and time at an approved testing center. The Florida exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions, and applicants have 3.5 hours to complete it. A passing score requires answering at least 75% of the questions correctly.
Since the test is administered electronically, results are available immediately. If you do not pass the exam, you may retake it by scheduling another test date.
Affiliate with a broker.
Timeline: 1-4 weeks
After passing the exam, state law requires every new agent to affiliate with a licensed broker. This is one of the most pivotal decisions in your real estate career. Choosing wisely can directly influence your success, confidence, and earning potential.
Evaluate brokerages based on their training programs, administrative support, transaction systems, and real estate commission structure. These elements determine how efficiently you can serve clients and grow your business.
To simplify your decision, consider Charles Rutenberg Realty. We operate on a 100% commission model, allowing agents to retain more of their earnings while receiving comprehensive support.
For additional guidance, explore our article, “Real Estate Recruiting: What Today’s New Agents Must Know.”
Activate your license.
Timeline: 1-3 days
Once you have selected a broker, they will activate your license through the DBPR. This can be completed online, typically within three business days.
After approval, your status will change from Inactive to Active (Sales Associate). You will receive a confirmation email containing your license number, active status, and broker affiliation. At this point, you are officially authorized to represent buyers and sellers in real estate transactions throughout the state of Florida.
Begin your real estate career with Charles Rutenberg Realty and keep 100% of your commission.
Before transitioning into a real estate career, it is vital to understand the steps and timeframe for obtaining licensure. One of the most effective ways to accelerate your timeline is to identify the broker you plan to affiliate with in advance.
As you begin studying or evaluating your options, speak with a member of the Charles Rutenberg Realty team. We will walk you through our extensive agent support resources and training programs. Moreover, we’ll explain our straightforward 100% commission model, which allows you to retain more of your earnings than traditional brokerages.
Connecting with us early in the process can save up to four weeks, giving you a faster start to your new venture. Schedule a call today to determine whether Charles Rutenberg Realty can help you build and grow your real estate career.