Real estate agent's education

A person may attend a pre-license course (often 60 actual hours) and be tested by the state for a real estate agent's license. Chapters of Alison Rogers' book Diary of a Real Estate Rookie describes the author's experience taking a 75-hour pre-license course in New Jersey and a 75-hour pre-license course in New York.

Upon passing, the new licensee must place their license with an established real estate firm, managed by a broker. Requirements vary by state but after some period of time working as an agent, one may return to the classroom and test to become a broker. Brokers may manage or own firms. Each branch office of a larger real estate firm must be managed by a broker.

States issue licenses for a multi year period and require real estate agents and brokers to complete continuing education prior to renewing their licenses. Many states recognize licenses from other states and issue licenses upon request to existing agents and firms upon request without additional education or testing however the license must be granted before real estate service is provided in the state.