Florida Real Estate Pre-Licensing Courses

Real estate agent earnings in Florida depend on three factors: the frequency of home sales, the value of the homes sold, and the commission rate. In reality, there is no limit to how much money real estate agents can make.

According to Indeed, as of March 2025, the average annual salary for a real estate agent in Florida is $97,979.  ZipRecruiter reports a lower average of $61,467 per year, with top earners making up to $96,027.  Glassdoor estimates the total annual pay for a real estate agent in Florida to be $217,681, comprising a base salary of $134,511 and additional earnings from commissions.

These discrepancies highlight the commission-based nature of the profession, where income is influenced by individual performance and local market dynamics.

At the end of it all, any intending real estate agent in Florida will spend about $400 to $500 to get their real estate license.

Here is a breakdown of these costs:

• The cost of the pre-licensing exam coursework can be as low as $80. This depends on the school, however, on average, the cost ranges between $245 to $400
• The application fee costs $89
• The licensing exam fees for real estate agents cost $36.75
• There is also the cost of fingerprinting which costs around $57. However, it may slightly vary from one provider to another.

Being a real estate agent can be very fulfilling and financially rewarding. However, it does require putting in the work.

You would also need a lot of commitment and diligence to succeed in this field.

You will need to learn how to promote yourself, track leads, handle complex paperwork and relate with customers as real estate is a people-focused business.

Real estate is not an instant success field—it takes time to build a client base. Agents often work beyond typical hours, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate clients.

Success depends on networking, marketing, and maintaining a strong presence. Effective self-promotion, social media skills, and client follow-ups are essential.

With a competitive market, adaptability is key. Continuous learning and staying updated on market trends can provide an advantage.

For those willing to invest in relationships, marketing, and a dynamic schedule, real estate can be both rewarding and profitable.

Florida offers mutual recognition agreements with eight states:

• Alabama
• Arkansas
• Connecticut
• Georgia
• Illinois
• Mississippi
• Nebraska
• Rhode Island

Agents licensed in these states can apply for a Florida real estate license without completing the standard pre-licensing education. However, they must pass a 40-question Florida-specific real estate law exam with at least a 75% score.

Key Restrictions:

• Only for Non-Residents – If you become a Florida resident, you must meet the full state licensing requirements.
• No Reciprocity-Based Licensing – If your current license was obtained through reciprocity in another state, you do not qualify for Florida’s mutual recognition program.

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In Florida, real estate licenses must be renewed every two years.

• First Renewal: Complete a 45-hour post-licensing course before the deadline.
• Subsequent Renewals: Complete 14 hours of continuing education every two years.
• Deadlines: Licenses expire on March 31 or September 30, based on the initial issue date.

Renew online through the Florida DBPR to avoid expiration and late fees.

After obtaining your Florida real estate license, follow these key steps to start your career:

1. Join a Brokerage – All agents must affiliate with a licensed brokerage before practicing real estate. Choose one that offers training and support.
2. Become a Realtor® & Access the MLS – Join your local real estate board to gain Realtor® status and access the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) for property listings.
3. Build Your Network – Connect with mentors, colleagues, and industry professionals to gain insights and referrals.
4. Develop Your Marketing Strategy – Establish an online presence, leverage social media, and engage in community outreach to attract clients.
5. Continue Learning – Stay informed on market trends and take additional training or certification courses to enhance your skills.