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

If you’re considering starting a career in real estate, you must obtain a New York real estate license. 

The process for getting licensed is straightforward but requires commitment and time. 

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to become a licensed real estate agent in New York. This includes the costs, requirements, and steps you need to take to get started.

How to Get Your Real Estate License in New York

Becoming a real estate agent in New York involves meeting specific qualifications, completing required coursework, and passing exams. The following step-by-step process outlines exactly what you need to do:

Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements

To be eligible for a New York real estate license, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Have a high school diploma or equivalent
• Have a current NYS photo driver’s license or non-driver ID card
• Be a U.S. citizen or a lawfully admitted alien
• Have not been convicted of a crime that bars the person from licensure

Step 2: Complete the 77-Hour Pre-Licensing Course

All aspiring real estate agents in New York must complete a 77-hour pre-licensing course approved by the New York Department of State. This course covers essential topics, including:

• Property Insurance
• Real Estate Finance
• Property Management
• Land Use Regulations
• Fair Housing and Human Rights
• Licensee Safety
• Real Estate Mathematics

The 77-hour course is typically completed in 4-6 weeks, depending on your schedule. The course includes quizzes to assess your understanding of each section. 

At the end of the course, there will be a final exam. Once you pass the final exam, you’ll receive a certificate of completion, which is mandatory for taking the state licensing exam.

We provide an accredited New York online real estate course that fulfills the state requirement to get your license.

Step 3: Apply for the New York Real Estate License Exam

After completing your pre-licensing education, the next step is to apply for the New York real estate salesperson exam. 

To register for the exam, you’ll need to:

1. Create an account on the New York Department of State’s eAccessNY system.
2. Submit your application and schedule the exam.
3. Pay the $15 examination fee.

When you arrive at the exam location, make sure to bring a valid government-issued ID, your pre-licensing course completion certificate, and your exam confirmation notice. 

It’s a good idea to review the New York Real Estate Salesperson Exam Candidate Handbook to ensure you’re well-prepared.

Step 4: Pass the New York Real Estate Salesperson Exam

The New York Real Estate Salesperson Exam consists of 75 multiple-choice questions covering both national and state-specific real estate topics. 

You’ll have 1.5 hours to complete the exam, and you must score at least 70% to pass. The exam is administered at various locations throughout New York. You can choose a testing center convenient for you.

The exam will test your knowledge in areas such as:

• Real estate principles and practices
• Contracts and agency relationships
• Financing and real estate mathematics
• Property ownership and land use controls
• Fair housing laws and regulations

If you don’t pass the exam on your first attempt, don’t worry—you can retake it. However, you’ll need to pay the $15 exam fee each time you reschedule.

We provide an exam prep package that makes studying quick, easy, and fun. You can join and pass the exam on your first attempt.

Step 5: Submit Your License Application

Once you’ve passed the exam, you can submit your license application through the New York Department of State’s eAccessNY system. 

You must pay a $65 application fee and provide the following materials:

• Pre-Licensing Course Completion Certificate: Proof that you completed the 77-hour course.
• Passing Score Report: A copy of your exam results.
• Sponsoring Broker Information: Your broker must verify and approve your license application before it is processed.

Once you submit your application, it can take a few weeks to be reviewed and approved. Upon approval, you’ll receive your real estate license. Then, you will just have to find a brokerage.

Step 6: Find a Sponsoring Broker

Before you can practice real estate you must sign with a brokerage. Your sponsoring broker will be your mentor and provide you with the training and guidance necessary to start your real estate career. 

When searching for a sponsoring broker, consider the firm’s reputation, commission splits, mentorship programs, and the type of training they offer new agents.

FAQs About Getting a Real Estate License in New York

The process of getting a real estate license can be overwhelming if you’re not familiar with all the details. Here are some frequently asked questions that will help clarify any uncertainties:

How Much Do New York Real Estate Agents Make?

Real estate agents in New York State earn a wide range of salaries depending on their experience, location, and sales performance. 

According to recent data, the average base salary for a real estate agent in New York is approximately $99,374 per year. 

This figure can vary greatly, with some agents earning as low as $46,925 and others reaching up to $210,535 annually.

Agents working in high-demand areas like Manhattan or Long Island often earn significantly more, especially if they specialize in luxury properties or commercial real estate. 

However, new agents should expect to earn less as they build their client base and gain experience.

How Much Does a New York Real Estate License Cost?

The cost of obtaining a New York real estate license includes several required expenses. Here's a breakdown of what you should budget for:

• 77-Hour Pre-Licensing Course: $379 - $909
• Exam Fee: $15
• License Application Fee: $65
• Optional Exam Prep Materials: $50 - $100 (depending on provider)

Overall, you should expect to spend between $500 and $1,000 to get your real estate license in New York. This total may vary based on the specific courses and study materials you choose to invest in.

Is Becoming a Real Estate Agent in New York Worth It?

Becoming a real estate agent in New York can be highly rewarding, both personally and financially. 

New York has one of the most active real estate markets in the country, and the potential for earning a high income is strong. 

However, success in real estate requires hard work, persistence, and the ability to build relationships. If you’re willing to put in the effort, it can be a worthwhile and lucrative career.

What Should I Know Before Becoming a Real Estate Agent?

Before becoming a real estate agent, it’s essential to understand that real estate is a highly competitive industry. 

You’ll need to be prepared to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate clients’ schedules. 

Networking and self-promotion are critical to building your business, so having strong communication skills and a willingness to continuously learn will be invaluable.

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

Yes, New York has reciprocity agreements with several states, including Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Georgia, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. 

If you hold a real estate license in one of these states, you may be eligible to obtain a New York license without completing the pre-licensing education requirements. However, you’ll still need to pass the New York state-specific exam.

How Often Do I Renew My New York Real Estate License?

Real estate licenses in New York must be renewed every two years. 

To renew your license, you’ll need to complete 22.5 hours of continuing education courses, including at least three hours of fair housing and discrimination training, as well as one hour of instruction on the law of agency. 

Renewal fees are $65 for an agent as of 2024.

What Should I Do After Getting My New York Real Estate License?

After obtaining your New York real estate license, your first step should be to get acclimated with your sponsoring broker’s processes and begin prospecting for clients. 

Consider joining a local real estate association, attending networking events, and leveraging social media to start building your personal brand. 

Continuing your education and staying up-to-date with the latest real estate trends and laws will help ensure your long-term success.

Final Thoughts on Getting a Real Estate License in New York

Getting a real estate license in New York can open the door to a rewarding career with numerous opportunities for growth. 

While the process may seem lengthy, following the steps outlined in this guide will help you achieve your goal of becoming a licensed real estate agent in the Empire State. 

If you’re ready to start your real estate journey, enroll in our New York pre-licensing course today and take the first step toward a successful real estate career.