Dreaming of a career in real estate but wondering if you are old enough to get started? Figuring out the right time to jump into this exciting field can be confusing, but understanding the requirements can set you on a path to a flexible and rewarding career. This guide will break down exactly what you need to know about the age requirements for getting your real estate license, so you can start planning your future.
Key Takeaways
- Most States Require 18: The majority of states set the minimum age for a real estate salesperson license at 18.
- Some States Differ: A few states, like Alabama, Alaska, and Nebraska, have a slightly higher minimum age of 19.
- You Can Start Your Education Early: Many states allow you to begin your pre-licensing coursework before you meet the official age requirement, giving you a head start.
- Education Is The First Step: Completing state-approved pre-licensing courses is a mandatory first step before you can take the exam and earn your license.
Understanding Real Estate License Age Requirements
The journey to becoming a real estate agent starts with understanding your state’s specific rules. While most states set the minimum age for a salesperson license at 18, it is not a universal rule. Some states have slightly different requirements, and many allow you to begin your education even before you reach the minimum age.
General real estate license eligibility requirements
While age is a key factor, it is just one piece of the puzzle. Before you can earn your license, you will need to meet several other common eligibility criteria.
- Hold a high school diploma or its equivalent (GED).
- Pass a criminal background check.
- Complete state-mandated pre-licensing education.
- Pass the official real estate license examination.
- Find a sponsoring broker to work under once you are licensed.
These steps ensure that all agents have the foundational knowledge and ethical standing to represent clients professionally.
Minimum Age Requirements By State
The most common minimum age to get a real estate license is 18 years old. This standard applies to the vast majority of states. However, a handful of states require applicants to be slightly older. It is crucial to check the specific regulations in the state where you plan to work. Your state’s real estate commission website is the definitive source for the most current information.
State-by-state overview
Here is a general overview of the minimum age required to obtain a real estate salesperson license in each state.
| State | Age Requirement for Entry-Level Real Estate License |
| Alabama | 19 |
| Alaska | 19 |
| Arizona | 18 |
| Arkansas | 18 |
| California | 18 |
| Colorado | 18 |
| Connecticut | 18 |
| Delaware | 18 |
| Florida | 18 |
| Georgia | 18 |
| Hawaii | 18 |
| Idaho | 18 |
| Illinois | 18 |
| Indiana | 18 |
| Iowa | 18 |
| Kansas | 18 |
| Kentucky | 18 |
| Louisiana | 18 |
| Maine | 18 |
| Maryland | 18 |
| Massachusetts | 18 |
| Michigan | 18 |
| Minnesota | 18 |
| Mississippi | 18 |
| Missouri | 18 |
| Montana | 18 |
| Nebraska | 19 |
| Nevada | 18 |
| New Hampshire | 18 |
| New Jersey | 18 |
| New Mexico | 18 |
| New York | 18 |
| North Carolina | 18 |
| North Dakota | 18 |
| Ohio | 18 |
| Oklahoma | 18 |
| Oregon | 18 |
| Pennsylvania | 18 |
| Rhode Island | 18 |
| South Carolina | 18 |
| South Dakota | 18 |
| Tennessee | 18 |
| Texas | 18 |
| Utah | 18 |
| Vermont | 18 |
| Virginia | 18 |
| Washington | 18 |
| West Virginia | 18 |
| Wisconsin | 18 |
| Wyoming | 18 |
Always verify these details with your state’s real estate commission, as regulations can change.
Real estate license age requirements in California and Texas
California and Texas are two of the largest real estate markets in the country, each with its own specific process.
The real estate license age requirements in California mandate that an applicant must be at least 18 years old to be issued a license. You will need to complete 135 hours of approved pre-licensing education, which includes three mandatory courses in Real Estate Principles, Real Estate Practice, and one elective. After passing the state exam, you will submit your application and undergo a background check.
Similarly, the real estate license age requirements in Texas state that you must be at least 18 years old. Texas requires 180 hours of pre-licensing coursework covering six topics, including Principles of Real Estate and the Law of Contracts. Once your education is complete, you can apply for your license and receive an eligibility letter to sit for the exam.
Opportunities for Young Aspiring Agents
If you are under 18 but passionate about real estate, you can get a significant head start. Your energy and fresh perspective are valuable assets in this dynamic industry.
Starting real estate education before 18
Many states allow you to begin your pre-license education before you meet the minimum age requirement. This is a huge advantage, as it lets you complete your coursework and be ready to take the exam as soon as you are eligible. Enrolling in a real estate school while in high school or shortly after can put you on the fast track. For example, in Georgia, you can take the licensing exam at age 17, as long as you wait until you turn 18 to formally apply for your license.
Apprenticeships and early start options
While formal real estate apprentice programs are uncommon, you can gain valuable experience by working in an administrative or marketing role at a brokerage. This allows you to learn the business from the inside out. You can build connections, understand the day-to-day operations, and find a sponsoring broker who is willing to mentor you once you are licensed. Building these relationships early can be invaluable for your future success.
Educational Requirements for Aspiring Real Estate Agents
Your pre-licensing education is the foundation of your real estate career. It’s where you’ll learn everything from contract law and financing to ethical practices and property rights. The required hours and courses vary significantly from state to state.
Pre-licensing education requirements
The coursework is designed to give you the knowledge you need to pass your state real estate exam and serve your future clients with confidence. These courses must be taken from an accredited provider, such as an accredited college or a state-approved real estate school. Researching your state’s specific educational requirements is one of the first steps in your licensing journey.
Navigating State-Specific Licensing Processes
Beyond age and education, each state has a unique process for issuing a real estate license. These differences can affect your timeline and the steps you need to take.
Unique steps and timelines
Let’s look at a couple of examples. To get an Ohio salesperson license, you must complete 120 hours of education, find a sponsoring broker, and then submit your application to the state. Only after your application is processed can you sit for the licensing exam. In contrast, Kentucky’s process allows you to take the licensing exam after completing your 96 hours of education but before applying for your license. The application processing times can also vary, so it’s wise to plan accordingly and start the process well in advance of when you hope to begin working.
Addressing Common Questions
Aspiring agents often have similar questions about getting started, especially concerning age.
Can a 17-year-old get a real estate license?
Directly, no. No state will issue a real estate license to a 17-year-old. However, as mentioned, many states allow 17-year-olds to enroll in pre-licensing courses. This is an excellent way to prepare so you can apply and take the exam as soon as you meet the legal age requirement.
Real estate license age vs. other professional licenses
Compared to other professions, the minimum age requirement for real estate is relatively accessible. For example, obtaining a CPA license often requires a bachelor’s degree, putting the minimum age realistically around 21 or 22. Becoming an attorney requires a law degree, pushing the age even higher. In contrast, you can be fully licensed and practicing real estate at 18 or 19 in every state, making it an attractive career for ambitious young adults. Getting a broker license, which is an advanced license, typically requires several years of experience as a salesperson, in addition to meeting age and education criteria.
Take the First Step Toward Your Real Estate Career
Ready to turn your ambition into action? Your future in real estate is closer than you think, and starting your education is the first step toward achieving your goals.
With Colibri Real Estate, you can get started on your pre-licensing coursework today. Our flexible, online courses are designed to fit your schedule, so you can learn at your own pace. Plus, our Pass or Don’t Pay Guarantee means you can feel confident in your investment. We’ve helped over 520,000 students start their careers, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
