How To Become a Real Estate Agent in New York

If you’re interested in becoming a real estate agent in New York, understanding how to work with the NY realty commission to obtain your license is the first step.

This complete guide outlines the steps involved to becoming a professional real estate agent in New York, and explains the testing and approval process so that you can start selling homes…in a New York minute.

How To Get a Real Estate License in New York

New York real estate agents have the rewarding responsibility of helping buyers find their dream property, including residential, commercial, or both.

You’ll meet with interested buyers and tour homes and buildings. When questions come up, you’ll have answers.

You’ll also recommend properties and guide your clients toward the right sale for their needs and budget.

You’re a reliable expert when clients want to sell homes and property. You can connect sellers with interested buyers.

You know everything about maximizing listings and recommending good asking prices for property.

Real estate is a versatile, engaging career with room for growth and a healthy income.

Are you ready to get started? Here is an overview of the steps required to get a real estate license in New York, with a detailed explanation to come.

• Complete 77 hours of pre-education training
• Take the NYS Real Estate Salesperson exam and pass
• Receive sponsorship through a state-licensed real estate broker
• Apply for your real estate license

Must Haves For Becoming a Real Estate Agent in New York

Beginning your broker or real estate career in New York means passing requirements set by the state.

This section will unpack the basics so you can proceed with your real estate licensing goals.

Age and Fundamental Educational Qualifications

NY state law requires all aspiring real estate agents to be at least 18 years old. Additionally, you need a fundamental real estate education.

You can use the eAccessNY’s Occupational Licensing Management System to find a qualifying school near you.¹ Your pre-licensing education needs to be approved by the New York Department of State.

You must also have a valid driver’s license. If you don’t, use a non-license government-issued photo ID card.

Do you want to be a broker? You have different requirements.

You must be at least 20 years old to apply for a license. You also need three years of experience in general real estate or two years of agent experience.

Prescribed Pre-License Course Duration

The educational instruction should last for 77 hours if aiming for a real estate license.

Brokers need more education, up to 152 hours at an accredited school. The exception is if you have a four-year real estate college degree.

Fee Structure for Pre-Licensing Real Estate Education

Here is the pricing structure for your NY real estate license:

• Coursework at an approved school: $240 to $615
• Exam fees: $15
• Registration/duplicate license request: $10
• Salesperson license fees: $65
• Change of address or name: $10
• Background check: $102
• Application fee: $65
• License renewal: $65

You don’t have to pay $10 to change your name if the change occurs because you’ve gotten married.

Essential Real Estate Background Check (Fingerprinting Location Requirements)

Fingerprinting is part of the real estate license application in New York.

You can use IdentoGO,² an electronic fingerprint service. You can set up your appointment by calling 1-877-472-6915.

You must have a valid ID, such as a driver’s license or NYC Identification Card, to get fingerprinted.

Can You Get a Real Estate License in New York With a Misdemeanor?

A misdemeanor on your record, even a Class A, does not disqualify you from working as a real estate agent in NY. You must have documents on your case, such as court records, but you can proceed with your career aspirations.

Can a felon sell real estate? State law precludes aspiring real estate agents found guilty of sex offenses and other felonies from receiving a license.