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By Emily Wilson•Last Updated May 6, 2025

Your Complete Guide to Getting a Real Estate License in Florida, Texas, and Georgia: Steps, Timelines, and Opportunities

Introduction: Why Pursue a Real Estate License?

Real estate offers a dynamic, rewarding career path with opportunities for growth, flexibility, and significant earning potential. Whether you want to help families find homes or invest in property, earning your real estate license is the essential first step. This guide walks you through how to get your real estate license in Florida, Texas, and Georgia-including timelines, school requirements, and actionable steps for every stage of the process.

How to Get Your Real Estate License in Florida

Florida is a top destination for real estate professionals, thanks to its booming property market and diverse clientele. The steps to become a licensed real estate sales associate in Florida are clearly defined by the Florida Real Estate Commission.

Florida Licensing Requirements

To qualify, you must:

Be at least 18 years old
Have a high school diploma or GED
Complete a state-approved 63-hour pre-licensing course
Pass the course final exam
Submit electronic fingerprints for a background check through a provider registered with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE)
Pass the Florida real estate sales associate state exam

This process ensures that all agents understand Florida’s unique property laws, contracts, and ethics. The application must be submitted to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation. For step-by-step instructions and forms, visit the official Florida Real Estate Commission’s website or call 850-487-1395 for guidance [5] .

Timelines and Education

The 63-hour course can be completed in about two to six weeks, depending on whether you study full-time or part-time. Most students complete the entire Florida licensing process-from coursework to passing the state exam-within two to three months. This timeline may vary if you need to retake exams or if background checks take longer to process.

Post-Licensing and Renewal

After passing your exam and receiving your license, Florida requires you to complete 45 hours of post-licensing education before your first renewal (within 18 to 24 months). Regular continuing education is also mandatory for license renewal [5] .

Reciprocity and Mutual Recognition

If you hold a license in certain other states, Florida may allow you to bypass the full education requirement. Florida has mutual recognition agreements with Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Mississippi, Nebraska, Rhode Island, and West Virginia. If you qualify, you only need to pass a 40-question Florida-specific law exam. You must also provide a certificate of license history. Note that mutual recognition does not exempt you from post-license or continuing education requirements [3] .

How to Get Your Real Estate License in Texas

Texas is another highly sought-after market for real estate professionals. The Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) oversees all licensing in the state. While the basic steps are similar to Florida, there are critical differences in coursework and exam requirements.

Texas Licensing Requirements

To become a licensed real estate sales agent in Texas, you must:

Be at least 18 years old
Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident
Meet TREC’s honesty, trustworthiness, and integrity standards
Complete 180 hours of qualifying real estate education (six 30-hour courses covering principles, law, contracts, and finance)
Submit fingerprints for a background check
Apply for the license via TREC’s official portal
Pass the Texas state and national real estate exams

The 180-hour coursework can be taken online or in-person from TREC-approved providers. The length of time to complete this requirement varies, but most students finish the education portion in three to six months if studying part-time.

Processing Time and Next Steps

After completing the education and background check, you can apply for the licensing exam. The exam tests your knowledge of both Texas-specific and national real estate laws. It’s possible to complete the entire process in as little as four to six months, depending on your pace and the speed of background and application processing.

If you need more information, you can find all the requirements and approved schools by searching for the Texas Real Estate Commission online or calling their main office.

How to Get Your Real Estate License in Georgia

Georgia’s real estate industry is robust, with the Georgia Real Estate Commission (GREC) regulating all licensing. The process shares similarities with Florida and Texas but has its own unique requirements, particularly regarding residency and reciprocity.

Georgia Licensing Requirements

To become a licensed real estate salesperson in Georgia, you must:

Be at least 18 years old
Have a high school diploma or GED
Complete 75 hours of approved pre-licensing education
Pass the Georgia real estate salesperson exam
Submit to a background check (GCIC for residents, comparable report for non-residents)
Apply for your license through the GREC

The 75-hour course is offered by both in-person and online providers. Students typically complete this requirement in about two to three months, depending on their schedule and study habits.

Reciprocity in Georgia

If you are licensed in another state (except Florida), you may be eligible for reciprocity. This means you can apply for a Georgia license by submitting a reciprocal application, proof of license history, a completed Lawful Presence Verification form, a $170 fee, and a criminal background report [1] . Florida licensees must pass the Georgia portion of the licensing exam. More details are available on the Georgia Real Estate Commission’s official website .

For further clarification, you can contact the GREC directly or search for their official forms and guidelines online.

How Long Does Real Estate School Take?

The time required to complete real estate school varies by state and student commitment. Here’s a general overview:

Florida: 63 hours of coursework; can be finished in two to six weeks full-time, or up to three months part-time.
Texas: 180 hours of coursework; typically three to six months, depending on your schedule.
Georgia: 75 hours of coursework; most complete in one to three months.

Online programs can offer more flexibility, allowing you to move at your own pace. In-person classes may stick to a rigid schedule, extending the completion time slightly. For all states, you should also factor in time needed for background checks, exam scheduling, and licensing application processing.

Tips for Success and Alternative Pathways

While the process is straightforward, many aspiring agents face challenges such as balancing study with work or family commitments, or navigating state-specific legal requirements. Here are practical steps to help you succeed:

Choose a reputable, state-approved school with high exam pass rates.
Set a consistent study schedule and prepare thoroughly for the state exam with practice tests and review sessions.
Contact your state’s real estate commission for guidance if you have questions about eligibility, especially if you are a non-resident or have a prior criminal record.
Consider joining professional associations for networking and ongoing education opportunities.

For those already licensed in another state, explore reciprocity and mutual recognition agreements to potentially shorten the process. Always verify your eligibility with the relevant commission before applying.

What Happens After You Get Licensed?

Once you receive your license, you must affiliate with a licensed real estate broker to legally practice. Many brokerages offer mentorship, training, and additional resources to help new agents establish their business. It’s also important to stay current with post-licensing and continuing education requirements to maintain your license in good standing.

If you want more information on how to advance your career or specialize in niche markets (such as commercial, luxury, or property management), professional organizations and state associations are valuable resources. Search for your state’s real estate association or contact your broker for guidance.

Getting Started: Step-by-Step

Review your state’s official real estate commission website for the most up-to-date requirements.
Select a state-approved real estate school and enroll in the required pre-licensing course.
Schedule and complete your background check and fingerprinting as directed by your state.
Register for and pass your state’s licensing exam.
Submit your application and supporting documents to your state’s real estate commission.
Upon approval, affiliate with a licensed broker to begin your real estate career.

For personalized assistance, consider contacting your state’s real estate commission by phone or email. Official websites provide comprehensive lists of approved schools, application forms, and exam details. Always use official government or commission resources for the most reliable, up-to-date information.