Real Estate Broker License Requirements

Real Estate Broker License Requirements by State

Becoming a licensed real estate broker involves meeting more advanced requirements than those for a real estate agent. While the overall licensing structure is similar nationwide, each state sets its own standards for experience, education, exams, and ongoing compliance.

This page provides a national overview of real estate broker licensing and links to detailed, state-specific requirements so you can understand what is required where you plan to practice.

What Does a Real Estate Broker Do?

A real estate broker is authorized to own or manage a real estate brokerage, supervise licensed agents, and conduct real estate transactions independently. Brokers often take on additional responsibilities, including:

Managing brokerage operations
Supervising and mentoring agents
Ensuring compliance with state laws and regulations
Handling trust accounts and escrow funds

Because brokers operate at a higher level of responsibility, states impose additional licensing and experience requirements beyond those for agents.

Is a Real Estate Broker License Required?

Yes.
In all U.S. states, you must hold an active real estate broker license to operate a brokerage or supervise other real estate licensees.

In many states:

Brokers may perform all activities of agents
Agents may not operate independently without broker supervision

General Real Estate Broker Licensing Process

While exact requirements vary by state, the typical broker licensing process includes:

1. Hold an Active Real Estate Agent License

Most states require applicants to:

Already be licensed as a real estate agent (or equivalent)
Maintain good standing with the regulatory authority

2. Meet Experience Requirements

States typically require:

A minimum number of years as a licensed agent
Or a minimum number of completed transactions or points

3. Complete Broker-Level Education

Broker applicants must complete advanced real estate coursework, often covering:

Brokerage management
Real estate law
Finance and contracts
Ethics and compliance

4. Pass the Broker Licensing Exam

Applicants must pass a state-specific broker exam, which is generally more comprehensive than the agent exam.

5. Submit an Application and Background Check

Most states require:

Application submission
Fees
Background checks or fingerprinting

State Real Estate Broker Regulatory Authorities

Real estate brokers are regulated by state licensing authorities, such as:

Departments of Real Estate
Real Estate Commissions
Professional Licensing Boards

These agencies set education standards, administer exams, issue licenses, and enforce compliance.

License Renewal and Continuing Education

Broker licenses must be renewed periodically, usually every 2 to 4 years. Renewal requirements often include:

Continuing education (CE) hours
Ethics or legal updates
Renewal fees

Failure to meet renewal requirements can result in license suspension or expiration.

Reciprocity and Out-of-State Brokers

Some states offer broker reciprocity or partial recognition for brokers licensed in other states. Reciprocity may allow applicants to:

Waive certain education requirements
Take a state-law-only exam

Reciprocity agreements vary widely and should be reviewed carefully.