How to Get an Arizona Real Estate License: Step-by-Step Guide

Getting a real estate license in Arizona is your first step toward becoming a real estate agent in the state.

Many people pursue their real estate license to unlock career opportunities that offer both financial freedom and flexibility. 

The secret is simple: a career in real estate gives you unlimited earning potential and the ability to design your own work schedule.

With an Arizona real estate license, you'll have the legal authority to assist people in buying and selling properties. 

There’s no limit to how many clients you can serve, which means there’s no ceiling on the commissions you can earn. You also get the flexibility to work at your own pace, whether part-time or full-time.

If this sounds like the career you’ve been looking for, you're in the right place. In this guide, we’'ll walk you through the essential steps to get your Arizona real estate license and answer common questions that arise during the process. Let’s dive in!

How to Get Your Real Estate License in Arizona

In Arizona, you can get your real estate license in 6 simple steps:

1. Meet the basic requirements to get an Arizona real estate license.
2. Complete 90 hours of pre-licensing education from an approved real estate school.
3. Complete the 6 hour Contract Writing Course
4. Pass the Arizona real estate exam.
5. Obtain a fingerprint clearance card for a background check.
6. Submit your application to the Arizona Department of Real Estate (ADRE).
7. Join a licensed real estate brokerage.

Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements

Before you can begin the licensing process, you must meet the following qualifications:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Have legal residency in the United States. If you are not a U.S. citizen, you can still qualify for a real estate license in Arizona by providing proof of your legal presence in the country, such as a valid Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) or other government-issued documents that confirm your eligibility to work in the U.S.
• Hold a high school diploma or GED.
• Obtain an Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) fingerprint card.
• Complete a Disciplinary Actions Disclosure and, if needed, complete a Disclosure Document Checklist.
• Have not had a real estate license denied in the year preceding your application, or a license revoked within the two years immediately prior to your application.

Step 2: Complete 90 Hours of Pre-Licensing Education

To obtain an Arizona real estate license, you must complete 90 hours of pre-licensing education from an approved Arizona real estate school. 

This coursework covers essential topics needed to become a real estate agent, including:

1. Real Estate Principles: This includes basic principles of real estate, such as property ownership, types of estates, and various forms of property ownership.
2. Arizona Real Estate Laws: Arizona has specific laws and regulations that real estate professionals must follow, so this course will cover these in detail.
3. Real Estate Finance: Learn about financing options, mortgages, lending practices, and how they apply to real estate transactions.
4. Real Estate Contracts: Understanding contract law is essential, and this course will cover the types of contracts used in real estate, including purchase agreements, leases, and financing agreements.
5. Real Estate Ethics: Ethics and professionalism in the real estate industry, including the REALTOR® Code of Ethics, will be covered.
6. Arizona-Specific Regulations: The course will also focus on topics specific to Arizona real estate, such as water rights, land usage, and zoning laws.

You must pass the final exam at your real estate school before moving on to the state licensing exam.

Step 3: Complete the 6 hour Contract Writing Course

In addition to the 90 hours of pre-licensing education, Arizona requires you to complete a 6-hour Contract Writing Course. You'll learn the ins and outs of writing legally binding real estate contracts. 

Unlike the mandatory pre-licensing education, this can be completed at any time before you submit your application for licensure, even after you’ve taken the state exam. 

However, this course is mandatory before you can submit your application​.

Step 4: Pass the Arizona Real Estate Exam

After completing your 90 hours of pre-licensing education and the 6-hour Contract Writing Course, your next step is to pass the Arizona real estate exam. 

This exam consists of two portions. There is a national section and a state-specific section. Here’s what you can expect from each portion:

• National Portion: This section covers general real estate practices, such as property ownership, financing, contracts, and real estate law. It typically includes topics like property rights, real estate financing, leases, and agency relationships.
• Arizona-Specific Portion: This section focuses on the laws, regulations, and real estate practices specific to Arizona, such as water rights, zoning laws, and the Arizona Department of Real Estate's regulations.

The exam consists of 180 multiple-choice questions, and you will have 5 hours to complete both sections. To pass the exam, you'll need to score at least 75% on each section.

Make sure you bring the following day-of your exam:

• Two Forms of Identification: Bring two current, government-issued forms of identification, one of which must have your photo (such as a driver's license or passport). The second ID should have your signature (such as a credit card or social security card).
• Salesperson Education Certificate: This certificate verifies that you have completed your 90-hour pre-licensing course. You will not be allowed to take the state exam without it.
• Exam Fee Receipt: Be sure to bring proof of payment for the exam fee, which is typically $75. 

Step 4: Get a Fingerprint Clearance Card

Arizona requires all real estate license applicants to undergo a background check. To do this, you’ll need to obtain a fingerprint clearance card from the Arizona Department of Public Safety. This step ensures that all real estate professionals have passed the required background check.

Step 5: Submit Your Application

After passing the exam and obtaining your Fingerprint Clearance Card, you’ll need to submit your application for licensure to the Arizona Department of Real Estate (ADRE). 

You’ll also need to provide proof of your completed education and other documents, including your exam score.

Step 6: Join a Brokerage

In Arizona, you cannot work as an independent real estate agent right after getting your license. You’ll need to work under a licensed broker. Finding the right brokerage to join is a crucial step in starting your real estate career, as they will provide you with mentorship, training, and access to essential resources.

FAQs About Getting a Real Estate License in Arizona

When you decide to become a real estate agent, you will have many questions. Here are a few of the most common questions we receive.

How Much Do Arizona Real Estate Agents Make?

The income of a real estate agent in Arizona varies based on factors such as experience, market conditions, and effort. On average, real estate agents in Arizona earn around $68,338 to $216,489 per year. 

However, top-performing agents can make significantly more. Since real estate is largely commission-based, your income will depend on the number of transactions you close and the average price of homes in your area.

How Much Does an Arizona Real Estate License Cost?

The cost to get a real estate license in Arizona includes several expenses:

• Pre-licensing Education: The cost for 90 hours of pre-licensing education typically ranges from $400 to $700, depending on the school and whether the course is taken online or in person. 
• Exam Fee: The exam fee remains $75 for the Arizona real estate exam.
• License Application Fee: The license application fee is $50, plus an additional $10 Real Estate Recovery Fund fee, making it $60 in total.
• Fingerprint Clearance Card: The cost for the Fingerprint Clearance Card issued by the Arizona Department of Public Safety is $67.

Additional costs may include test preparation materials, and optional expenses like membership fees for organizations such as the National Association of REALTORS® or marketing materials. 

Overall, you should budget between $600 and $900, though in some cases, it can exceed $900 depending on the courses and optional fees you choose to pay.

Is Becoming a Real Estate Agent in Arizona Worth It?

Yes, becoming a real estate agent in Arizona can be a rewarding career path. Arizona has a booming real estate market, with plenty of opportunities for agents to thrive. 

As a real estate agent, you can enjoy flexible hours, the potential for high earnings, and the satisfaction of helping clients find their dream homes. 

However, success in real estate requires hard work, persistence, and the ability to handle market fluctuations.

What Should I Know Before Becoming a Real Estate Agent?

Before embarking on your real estate career in Arizona, it’s important to understand that real estate is a commission-based job, meaning your income is directly tied to the number of deals you close. 

You’ll need excellent communication skills, persistence, and a willingness to learn. 

Additionally, building a strong network and consistently marketing your services are crucial to achieving long-term success in the industry.

Can I Get an Arizona Real Estate License If I’m Already an Agent in Another State?

Yes, Arizona offers reciprocity for agents who are already licensed in other states. 

However, you’ll still need to take the Arizona-specific portion of the real estate exam to ensure you are familiar with state laws and regulations. 

Additionally, you must apply for an Arizona real estate license through the Arizona Department of Real Estate (ADRE).

How Often Do I Renew My Arizona Real Estate License?

In Arizona, real estate agents (salespersons and brokers) are required to complete 24 hours of continuing education every two years. This includes:

• 3 hours of Agency Law
• 3 hours of Contract Law
• 3 hours of Commissioner’s Standards
• 3 hours of Disclosure and Inspection
• 3 hours of Fair Housing Law and Practice
• 3 hours of AZ Legal Issues

Additionally, there are 6 elective hours that can be taken in any category, as long as they are ADRE-approved courses.

What Should I Do After Getting My Arizona Real Estate License?

After obtaining your Arizona real estate license, the next step is to start working with a brokerage. Your broker will help you get started by providing mentorship, access to listings, and marketing tools.

It's also a good idea to focus on building your network, developing your brand, and continuously learning about the market to position yourself as a knowledgeable agent.

Final Thoughts on Getting a Real Estate License in Arizona

Getting a real estate license in Arizona is a straightforward process, but success in this career requires commitment and ongoing effort. 

Whether you’re just starting or transitioning from another state, the opportunities in Arizona’s real estate market are vast. 

If you’re ready to take the next step, consider joining our comprehensive real estate pre-licensing course. 

We provide the tools and resources you need to ace your exam and launch a successful real estate career.

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