How To Get Your Real Estate License In Florida? What You Need To Know

Requirement of Pre-License Course

In your search for how to get your real estate license in Florida, the start of your path requires you to undertake a compulsory pre-license course. This state-sanctioned program is a formality and an essential educational groundwork that gears you up for triumph in the field.

Here’s an overview of what you need to know about the pre-license course:

• Broad Coverage of Essential Topics: The course provides comprehensive knowledge of various aspects of real estate. These include property law, real estate contracts, types of ownership, and fair housing laws. You’ll also learn practical skills such as listing properties, working with buyers, and managing closings.
• Demonstration of Commitment: Completing this course signifies dedication to your new career path. It shows that you have a robust understanding of real estate fundamentals, which is the first major step toward obtaining your license in Florida.
• A 63-hour Investment: The State of Florida mandates that the pre-license course comprises 63 study hours. While this may seem substantial, it ensures you are well-equipped to handle the complexities and challenges of the real estate profession.

Mandatory Fingerprinting and Background Check

To uphold the credibility of the real estate sector, Florida mandates all aspiring agents to submit to a process of fingerprinting and background verification for anyone searching for how to get a real estate license in Florida. This compulsory measure guarantees that only those with an unblemished record join the profession, cultivating confidence among customers and other interested parties.

Here are the key points you need to know about this requirement:

• Fingerprinting Process: All applicants must submit fingerprints to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE). The FDLE uses these fingerprints to conduct a thorough background check. You can get your fingerprints taken at an approved service provider location.
• Background Check: The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) undertakes a detailed background screening, incorporating a search for any criminal records in Florida and throughout the United States. If you have a criminal past, it could impede your chances of being granted a real estate license in Florida.

• Importance of Transparency: Being completely honest when filling out your licensing application is crucial. If you fail to disclose any criminal history and it’s discovered during the background check, your application could be denied, not necessarily due to the criminal record but because of the failure to disclose it.

Submitting Your Application

After successfully finishing your pre-license course and clearing the background verification, the next step is to apply for a real estate license. The procedure is quite direct, but meticulous handling of the details is key to preventing possible hindrances.

Here are the key points you need to know about submitting your application:

• Online Submission: The Department of Business and Professional Regulation in Florida (DBPR) encourages hopefuls to file applications electronically via their authorized web portal. This digital approach is speedier and more effective than dispatching a hard copy application through traditional mail.

• Application Fee: You’ll need to pay an application fee at the time of submission. This fee covers the cost of processing your application and is non-refundable.
• Required Documentation: In conjunction with your application, you must provide evidence of completing the necessary pre-license course. Additionally, it’s crucial to include your fingerprinting confirmation from the FDLE, certifying that you have fulfilled the obligatory background check requirements.

• Accuracy is Crucial: Make sure all the information you provide on your application is accurate and up-to-date. Any discrepancies could delay the processing of your application or even lead to its denial.
• Processing Time: After submitting your application, be prepared to wait for a few weeks while the DBPR processes it. You’ll receive a notification once your application has been approved.

Scheduling and Passing the Florida Real Estate Exam

After submitting your application and receiving approval, the next step is to schedule and pass the Florida Real Estate Exam. Here are some key points to note:

• Scheduling the Exam: Schedule your exam through Pearson VUE, the authorized testing service provider.
• Exam Fee: There is a fee associated with the exam that needs to be paid when scheduling.
• Study Material: Review materials from your pre-license course and consider purchasing additional study guides or practice tests.
• Test Day: Take the test online or arrive early at the testing center with a valid form of ID.
• Passing Score: A 75% or higher score is required to pass the exam.