What Does It Cost to Get Your Real Estate License in Florida?
What kinds of fees can I expect when getting my Florida real estate license?
The total cost to become a licensed real estate agent in Florida typically ranges from $1,800 to over $7,000, depending on your education format, brokerage fees, and how much you set aside in business reserves. Planning ahead is key—not just for licensing, but for sustaining yourself financially while launching your career.
State Licensing Requirements & Fees
To legally work as a real estate agent in Florida, you must complete several steps—each with associated costs:
1. State Application Fee (DBPR)
The Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation charges $83.75 to apply for your real estate license. This includes your license fee, application processing, and a state-mandated unlicensed activity fee.
2. Fingerprinting and Background Check
You’ll need to complete an electronic fingerprint scan through a state-approved vendor. Most applicants spend $50–$60 for this step.
3. 63-Hour Pre-Licensing Course
The required education can be taken either online or in person:
Online self-paced: typically $167–$250
In-person classroom: typically $350–$500
While online courses are more affordable, in-person classes often include live instruction, printed materials, and extra accountability—valuable if you thrive in structured environments.
4. State Licensing Exam
The exam is administered by Pearson VUE and costs $36.75 per attempt. Most students aim to pass on the first try, but re-exam fees may apply if needed.
Local Realtor Board & MLS Fees (NE Florida Example)
If you plan to work in Northeast Florida and join a brokerage like CrossView Realty, you’ll need to budget for:
NEFAR membership: $887 annually (prorated)
RealMLS access: $468 annually (prorated)
E-Key Lockbox access: $50 activation + $18.22/month
These fees are typically due within your first 10 days of joining a brokerage.
Additional Brokerage Fees to Consider
Brokerages vary in what they charge. Be sure to ask about:
Monthly office or tech fees
Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance
Admin or transaction coordination costs
Marketing or CRM subscriptions
At CrossView Realty, many of these overhead costs are minimized or eliminated to support new agents in their first year.
Don’t Overlook: Business Startup Reserves
Licensing is only the beginning. Once you're legal to work, it still takes time to build momentum and close your first few deals. That’s why it’s smart to save at least 6 months of personal and business reserves before going full-time in real estate.
A solid reserve fund often includes:
$5,000–$10,000+ to cover living expenses, especially if you’re transitioning from a salaried job
Budget for marketing, headshots, signs, gas, subscriptions, and downtime between closings
This is the biggest mistake most new agents make: underestimating the time it takes to become profitable. Preparing now gives you staying power when others burn out.
Your Estimated Year-One Investment
| Category | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|
| DBPR Application & License Fee | $83.75 |
| Fingerprinting & Background Check | $50–$60 |
| Pre-Licensing Course | $167–$500 |
| State Exam Fee | $36.75 |
| NEFAR/RealMLS Dues + E-Key | ~$1,400 (prorated) |
| 6-Month Reserve Fund | $5,000–$10,000+ |
| Total Estimated (Year 1) | $6,700–$12,000+ |
Final Takeaway
Getting licensed in Florida is relatively affordable compared to other career paths—but launching your business requires more than just a license. Be ready to invest not only in your education and board dues, but also in the time and financial runway to grow into a successful agent. With smart planning and the right support, your first year can be a strong foundation for long-term success.
Call-to-Action
If you’re not yet licensed and want expert guidance on what to do next:
👉 Visit joincrossviewrealty.com/not-licensed-yet
This page breaks down every step of the licensing process and shows how CrossView Realty can support you before and after you get your license.
Or reach out directly:
Call CrossView Realty at 904-503-0672
or
Submit the “Request a Meeting” form at www.joincrossviewrealty.com
