How to Get a Maryland Real Estate License: Step-by-Step Guide

If you're considering a career as a real estate agent in Maryland, you're on your way to an exciting and flexible opportunity.

Whether you're transitioning or just beginning your journey, this guide will walk you through the exact process of obtaining your Maryland real estate license.

How to Get Your Real Estate License in Maryland

Becoming a licensed real estate agent in Maryland involves meeting several requirements and completing specific steps. 

Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you need to do:

1. Meet the Eligibility Requirements

Before you start, ensure you meet the basic eligibility requirements to become a real estate agent in Maryland. You must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Have a high school diploma or equivalent

2. Complete a 60-Hour Pre-Licensing Course

To prepare for the Maryland real estate licensing exam, complete a 60-hour pre-licensing course through a state-approved school. 

The course covers real estate fundamentals, Maryland laws, and professional practices.

If you want to enroll in a real estate school, we partnered with Kaplan to provide exceptional real estate courses to Maryland students.

Sign up through US Realty Training and get a discount.

3. Apply for the Maryland Real Estate Exam

When you complete your pre-licensing education, the next step is to register for the Maryland real estate salesperson exam. You’ll need to prepare these materials:

• A certificate of completion for your 60-hour pre-license course
• A valid government-issued ID
• A $61 exam fee

Submit your application through PSI, the official exam provider. Once approved, you’ll be guided through the process of selecting and scheduling your exam date.

4. Pass the Maryland Real Estate Salesperson Exam

The Maryland Real Estate Salesperson Exam is divided into two sections: a national portion and a state-specific portion. You must achieve a minimum score of 70% on each section to pass.

The exam is multiple choice and tests your knowledge of general real estate principles as well as Maryland-specific laws and regulations. 

To increase your chances of success on the first attempt, focus on reviewing your coursework and taking practice exams.

We provide a Maryland real estate crash course and exam prep package to make studying and passing easy. This program provides 8+ hours of video content that explains concepts, vocabulary, historical events, and laws on the exam. 

You get unlimited practice exams, vocab flashcards, an eBook study guide, and 2,000+ question and answer videos.

5. Find a Sponsoring Broker

To activate your license, you must be affiliated with a broker. Take your time to research and find a brokerage that aligns with your career goals, provides training, and offers a supportive environment for new agents.

6. Apply for Your Maryland Real Estate License

After affiliating with a sponsoring broker, the next step is to apply for your license through the Maryland Real Estate Commission (MREC). Your application must include:

• Proof of passing your Salesperson Exam
• Your certificate of completion for the 60-hour pre-licensing course
• A sponsoring broker affiliation form

The fee is approximately $90. Visit the MREC website for the most up-to-date fee information, as rates may change.

The Maryland Real Estate Commission (MREC) normally finishes the review process in a few weeks after you submit your application.

You will receive your official Maryland real estate license and an email confirmation as soon as your application is accepted.

7. Receive Your Maryland Real Estate License

Upon approval, you will receive your Maryland real estate license, which allows you to legally work as a real estate salesperson in the state. At this point, you are officially an active agent in Maryland.

FAQs About Getting a Real Estate License in Maryland

Below are the most frequent questions we receive from students becoming a real estate agent.

How Much Do Maryland Real Estate Agents Make?

Maryland real estate agents earn an average annual salary of approximately $83,841 according to Indeed. This amount can vary based on factors such as experience, location, and the number of transactions completed. 

New agents may earn less initially as they build their client base and experience, but top-performing agents can significantly increase their income with higher commissions and more transactions. 

To maximize earnings, agents should focus on building strong relationships, continuous learning, and leveraging their network to close more deals.

How Much Does a Maryland Real Estate License Cost?

The costs to obtain a Maryland real estate license include the following:

• Tuition for the 60-hour pre-licensing course: Typically ranges from $200 to $500
• Exam Fee: Approximately $44
• Application Fee: Around $90
• Additional Costs: May include background checks, fingerprinting, and membership dues for local real estate associations

These costs can vary based on the school you choose and other specific requirements. Make sure to budget for all these expenses when planning your licensing journey.

Is Becoming a Real Estate Agent in Maryland Worth It?

Yes, becoming a real estate agent in Maryland can be a lucrative and fulfilling career. Maryland’s vibrant real estate market makes becoming an agent a highly rewarding choice. From high-end homes to commercial investments, the opportunities are diverse and abundant. Combined with the potential for high earnings and the flexibility to work on your own terms, it’s a career path worth exploring.

What Should I Know Before Becoming a Real Estate Agent?

Before you begin, it’s important to understand that success in real estate takes more than passing the licensing exam. You’ll need to dedicate time and effort to building your brand, cultivating relationships, and keeping up with market trends.

Think of real estate as a business—its growth and success depend on your commitment and management skills.

Can I Get a Maryland Real Estate License if I’m Already an Agent in Another State?

Agents from certain states can take advantage of reciprocity agreements to make obtaining a real estate license in Maryland more straightforward. 

These agreements apply to licensees in:

• Pennsylvania
• Oklahoma

If you're licensed in one of these states, you may only need to pass the state portion of the licensing exam to qualify. 

Be sure to review the specific requirements for agents from reciprocal states before starting the application process.

How Often Do I Renew My Maryland Real Estate License?

Maryland real estate licenses must be renewed every two years. As part of the renewal process, you’ll need to complete 15 hours of continuing education courses to ensure you stay up to date on the latest laws, regulations, and industry practices.

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

Once you’ve received your license, your first priority should be building a strong client base. Join a local real estate association, participate in networking events, and create an online presence to showcase your services. Consider finding a mentor among experienced agents and make the most of any training programs your brokerage provides.

Final Thoughts on Getting a Real Estate License in Maryland

Starting your career as a licensed real estate agent in Maryland is a step-by-step process that, with dedication and proper support, can lead to incredible success. From fulfilling eligibility requirements to building your business after licensing, each phase is an opportunity to excel.

If you’re ready to get started, enroll in our partnered Maryland real estate licensing course today and get a discount.