FAQ AND HELPFUL LINKS
I passed my Florida State Exam! How do I activate my Sales Associate license?
Congratulations! Once you pass the Florida Real Estate Sales Associate State Examination, you are eligible to become active with a Florida-licensed real estate broker and begin practicing real estate.
Your license will initially remain inactive until it is registered with an employing broker.
To activate your license, you will need to select a Florida-licensed real estate broker to hold your license. Your broker can then activate your license through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).
There are two ways to complete the activation:
- Online: Your employing broker can add you to the brokerage through the broker’s DBPR Online Services account.
- Form RE 11: You and your employing broker may complete the DBPR RE 11 – Change of Status for Sales Associates and Broker Sales Associates. The form must be signed by your employing broker and submitted to DBPR. (myfloridalicense.com)
DBPR Real Estate Licensing Portal:
https://www.myfloridalicense.com/intentions2.asp?SID=&boardid=25&chBoard=true&professionid=25A
Until DBPR shows your license as Current/Active under your employing broker, you should not perform services that require an active Florida real estate license.
Harper School of Real Estate Tip: Begin researching and interviewing real estate brokerages before taking your state exam. This will allow you to select the brokerage that best fits your career goals and activate your license soon after you pass.
How much will receiving a Florida Real Estate Sales Associate license cost after passing the final exam with Harper School of Real Estate?
After successfully completing the 63-Hour Florida Real Estate Sales Associate Pre-License Course and passing your final examination with Harper School of Real Estate, there are additional fees required by the State of Florida and its testing provider before becoming licensed.
Students should budget for the following:
- Florida DBPR Sales Associate Application: Approximately $62.75. The application is submitted to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).
- Live Scan Fingerprinting/Background Check: Approximately $50–$80, depending on the approved fingerprinting provider selected. The required Florida Real Estate ORI Code is FL920010Z.
- Florida Real Estate State Examination: A separate examination fee is paid directly to Pearson VUE when scheduling the state licensing examination. Pearson VUE requires payment at the time the examination is scheduled.
Students should generally plan to budget approximately $150–$200 in additional licensing expenses after completing the course, depending on the fingerprinting provider and the current Pearson VUE examination fee.
These costs are separate from tuition paid to Harper School of Real Estate and are paid directly to the appropriate state agency, fingerprint provider, or testing provider.
Important: State licensing and examination fees are subject to change. Students should verify current fees when submitting their DBPR application and scheduling their state examination.
Harper School of Real Estate will provide students with information and links to help guide them through the licensing process.
Total: APPROXIMATELY $150-$200* *Fees are subject to change without notice and do not include Board/MLS fees*
What is included in the course fee?
The fee includes instructor courses, books, class materials, and end-of-course exams. It has everything you need to qualify for Florida State Testing. We recommend that students bring materials to take notes, such as paper, pens, pencils, and highlighters; determination and commitment! Textbooks will be provided on the first day of class.
Please provide more information regarding the 63-Hour Florida Real Estate Sales Associate Pre-License Course.
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The 63-Hour Florida Real Estate Sales Associate Pre-License Course is required for individuals seeking to become licensed Florida Real Estate Sales Associates.
Students must meet the following attendance and examination requirements to complete the course:
- Attendance Requirement: A student may not miss more than 8 classroom hours and still be eligible to take the end-of-course examination.
- Classroom Hour Definition: One classroom hour is defined as 50 minutes of instruction.
- Final Examination Requirement: Students must earn a minimum score of 70% or higher on the end-of-course examination to complete the Pre-License Course.
- Retesting Requirement: If a student receives a score of less than 70%, the student must wait 30 days before retaking the end-of-course examination.
Students are encouraged to attend every scheduled class session, participate fully in the course, and prepare carefully for the final examination to ensure successful completion of the 63-hour requirement.
What if I miss a class?
Pre-licensing students are permitted to miss up to 8 hours of class time. Students who miss more than 8 hours must make up the hours and specific missed units within 30 days of their course’s final exam date. If students do not make up their missed hours within 30 days, they must retake the class (no additional cost if taken within 60 days)
What if I do not pass the End of Course Exam (Final Exam) on my first attempt?
Students who are unsuccessful on their first end-of-course exam attempt will need to wait 30 days before they are eligible to retest. A student is permitted two attempts to test within one year. If a student is unsuccessful on their second attempt, they must retake the entire course before being eligible to retest. You can sit in any class and review for up to one year. We are committed to your success!
How long do I have to take my state exam?
After successfully completing the 63-Hour Florida Real Estate Sales Associate Pre-License Course, you have two (2) years from the date you complete the course to take and pass the Florida Real Estate Sales Associate State Examination.
Your course completion certificate must still be valid when you report for the state exam. If your 63-hour pre-license course expires before you pass the state examination, Florida DBPR will not accept the expired course completion, and you will need to complete the required pre-license education again before taking the exam.
Example: If you successfully complete your 63-hour course on August 30, 2026, your course completion is valid until August 30, 2028.
Students are encouraged not to wait until the end of the two-year period. Apply for your Florida Real Estate Sales Associate license, complete your Live Scan fingerprinting, and begin preparing for the state examination as soon as possible after completing your course.
Harper School of Real Estate Tip: Take your state examination while the information from your 63-hour course is still fresh!
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What steps do I need to complete to become a licensed Florida Real Estate Sales Associate after enrolling in the 63-Hour Pre-License Course? |
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Students may begin the Florida licensing process while completing the 63-Hour Real Estate Sales Associate Pre-License Course. You do not have to wait until the course is finished to submit your state application or complete your background check. *Since the approval process takes approximately 3 weeks, you may wish to submit the application package before starting the pre-licensing course. Evidence of completing the course must be presented when taking the state examination. Follow these steps: 1. Apply for Your Florida Real Estate Sales Associate License Submit the Initial Sales Associate Application (RE 1) through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). Apply Online: Application Requirements: Estimated DBPR Application Fee: $62.75 You will need to create a DBPR online account and provide your legal name, Social Security number, address, email address, and other required information. 2. Complete Your Live Scan Fingerprinting and Background Check Florida real estate applicants must complete electronic fingerprinting through an approved Live Scan provider. Florida Real Estate ORI Code: FL920010Z It is very important to provide the correct ORI code to the fingerprint provider so your results are submitted to the appropriate Florida licensing agency. Find an Approved Live Scan Provider: DBPR Fingerprinting Information: Fingerprinting fees vary depending on the provider. Keep your fingerprint receipt for your records. 3. Successfully Complete the 63-Hour Pre-License Course Students must successfully complete the Florida-approved 63-Hour Real Estate Sales Associate Pre-License Course before taking the state examination. After successfully completing the course, you will receive a Course Completion Certificate. The certificate is generally valid for two years from the date of course completion. 4. Register for the Florida Real Estate State Examination Once your application has been approved by DBPR and you have successfully completed your 63-hour course, you may schedule the Florida Real Estate Sales Associate State Examination through Pearson VUE. Pearson VUE – Florida Real Estate: The examination is administered at an approved Pearson VUE testing location. Estimated State Examination Fee: Approximately $57.75 per attempt. Fees are subject to change, so students should verify the current examination fee when scheduling. Estimated Licensing CostsStudents should plan for approximately:
Students should budget approximately $160–$185 for the state application, fingerprinting, and examination, in addition to the cost of the 63-hour pre-license course.
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What happens if I fail my STATE real estate exam?
The applicant can reschedule with Pearson Vue, the testing vendor until the education or authorization for the exam has expired; there are separate expiration dates for your education and your approval for the exam. An authorization to take the exam is suitable for two years from the date a complete application is approved. The education certificate is good for two years from the completion date shown on your completion slip. To learn more, visit their website to find a location near you to set up your exam once your status shows “Exam Eligible.” There is no limit on exam attempts inside the two-year window. Don’t give up!! You never fail; you are always in the process of passing!!
When do I get my Real Estate License after passing the State Exam?
The testing vendor will download the passing grade information to the department’s system, and at that point, the system will automatically issue a license number. The department automatically gives the license within 7-10 business days of passing the examination.
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I passed your state exam!! How do I activate my Sales Associate license? |
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Congratulations! Once you pass the Florida Real Estate Sales Associate State Examination, you are eligible to become active with a Florida-licensed real estate broker and begin practicing real estate. Your license will initially remain inactive until it is registered with an employing broker. To activate your license, you will need to select a Florida-licensed real estate broker to hold your license. Your broker can then activate your license through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). There are two ways to complete the activation:
DBPR Real Estate Licensing Portal: Until DBPR shows your license as Current/Active under your employing broker, you should not perform services that require an active Florida real estate license. Harper School of Real Estate Tip: Begin researching and interviewing real estate brokerages before taking your state exam. This will allow you to select the brokerage that best fits your career goals and activate your license soon after you pass. |
What are the continuing education requirements for an active Broker or Sales Associate after their first renewal period?
After completing the required post-license education for your first license renewal, active Florida Real Estate Brokers and Sales Associates must complete 14 hours of Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC)-approved Continuing Education every two-year renewal period.
The required 14 hours of Continuing Education consist of:
- 3 hours of Core Law
- 3 hours of Ethics and Business Practices
- 8 hours of Specialty Education
Continuing Education may be completed through an approved classroom or distance education course.
Important: Continuing Education is different from your first renewal requirement. Before the first renewal, a Florida Sales Associate must complete 45 hours of post-license education, while a Florida Broker must complete 60 hours of post-license education. After that first renewal period, the regular 14-hour Continuing Education requirement applies to each subsequent renewal cycle.
Licensees should complete all required education and pay the applicable renewal fee before the license expiration date to maintain their license in good standing.
Harper School of Real Estate Tip: Do not wait until your license is about to expire. Check your DBPR account periodically to confirm your license expiration date and verify that your completed Continuing Education hours have been reported.
DBPR License Portal:
https://www.myfloridalicense.com/RealEstate.asp
What’s the difference between a real estate licensee and a Realtor®? A real estate licensee (sales associate or broker) has taken the state’s licensing course and passed the state exam. A Realtor® is a licensed sales associate or broker who has chosen to become a member of the National Association of Realtors® (NAR) and, by doing so, may use the trademarked term “Realtor®” and the trademark logo “R” on their business cards and marketing materials. In choosing to be a Realtor®, the real estate professional voluntarily agrees to abide by a strict code of ethics that protects clients, the public, and other real estate professionals. So, while all Realtors® are licensees, all licensees are NOT Realtors® - only those who choose to enhance their professionalism.
I passed my Florida State Exam! How do I activate my Sales Associate license?
Congratulations! Once you pass the Florida Real Estate Sales Associate State Examination, you are eligible to become active with a Florida-licensed real estate broker and begin practicing real estate.
Your license will initially remain inactive until it is registered with an employing broker.
To activate your license, you will need to select a Florida-licensed real estate broker to hold your license. Your broker can then activate your license through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).
There are two ways to complete the activation:
- Online: Your employing broker can add you to the brokerage through the broker’s DBPR Online Services account.
- Form RE 11: You and your employing broker may complete the DBPR RE 11 – Change of Status for Sales Associates and Broker Sales Associates. The form must be signed by your employing broker and submitted to DBPR. (myfloridalicense.com)
DBPR Real Estate Licensing Portal:
https://www.myfloridalicense.com/intentions2.asp?SID=&boardid=25&chBoard=true&professionid=25A
Until DBPR shows your license as Current/Active under your employing broker, you should not perform services that require an active Florida real estate license.
Harper School of Real Estate Tip: Begin researching and interviewing real estate brokerages before taking your state exam. This will allow you to select the brokerage that best fits your career goals and activate your license soon after you pass.
How much will receiving a Florida Real Estate Sales Associate license cost after passing the final exam with Harper School of Real Estate?
After successfully completing the 63-Hour Florida Real Estate Sales Associate Pre-License Course and passing your final examination with Harper School of Real Estate, there are additional fees required by the State of Florida and its testing provider before becoming licensed.
Students should budget for the following:
- Florida DBPR Sales Associate Application: Approximately $62.75. The application is submitted to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).
- Live Scan Fingerprinting/Background Check: Approximately $50–$80, depending on the approved fingerprinting provider selected. The required Florida Real Estate ORI Code is FL920010Z.
- Florida Real Estate State Examination: A separate examination fee is paid directly to Pearson VUE when scheduling the state licensing examination. Pearson VUE requires payment at the time the examination is scheduled.
Students should generally plan to budget approximately $150–$200 in additional licensing expenses after completing the course, depending on the fingerprinting provider and the current Pearson VUE examination fee.
These costs are separate from tuition paid to Harper School of Real Estate and are paid directly to the appropriate state agency, fingerprint provider, or testing provider.
Important: State licensing and examination fees are subject to change. Students should verify current fees when submitting their DBPR application and scheduling their state examination.
Harper School of Real Estate will provide students with information and links to help guide them through the licensing process.
Total: APPROXIMATELY $150-$200* *Fees are subject to change without notice and do not include Board/MLS fees*
What is included in the course fee?
The fee includes instructor courses, books, class materials, and end-of-course exams. It has everything you need to qualify for Florida State Testing. We recommend that students bring materials to take notes, such as paper, pens, pencils, and highlighters; determination and commitment! Textbooks will be provided on the first day of class.
Please provide more information regarding the 63-Hour Florida Real Estate Sales Associate Pre-License Course.
-
The 63-Hour Florida Real Estate Sales Associate Pre-License Course is required for individuals seeking to become licensed Florida Real Estate Sales Associates.
Students must meet the following attendance and examination requirements to complete the course:
- Attendance Requirement: A student may not miss more than 8 classroom hours and still be eligible to take the end-of-course examination.
- Classroom Hour Definition: One classroom hour is defined as 50 minutes of instruction.
- Final Examination Requirement: Students must earn a minimum score of 70% or higher on the end-of-course examination to complete the Pre-License Course.
- Retesting Requirement: If a student receives a score of less than 70%, the student must wait 30 days before retaking the end-of-course examination.
Students are encouraged to attend every scheduled class session, participate fully in the course, and prepare carefully for the final examination to ensure successful completion of the 63-hour requirement.
What if I miss a class?
Pre-licensing students are permitted to miss up to 8 hours of class time. Students who miss more than 8 hours must make up the hours and specific missed units within 30 days of their course’s final exam date. If students do not make up their missed hours within 30 days, they must retake the class (no additional cost if taken within 60 days)
What if I do not pass the End of Course Exam (Final Exam) on my first attempt?
Students who are unsuccessful on their first end-of-course exam attempt will need to wait 30 days before they are eligible to retest. A student is permitted two attempts to test within one year. If a student is unsuccessful on their second attempt, they must retake the entire course before being eligible to retest. You can sit in any class and review for up to one year. We are committed to your success!
How long do I have to take my state exam?
After successfully completing the 63-Hour Florida Real Estate Sales Associate Pre-License Course, you have two (2) years from the date you complete the course to take and pass the Florida Real Estate Sales Associate State Examination.
Your course completion certificate must still be valid when you report for the state exam. If your 63-hour pre-license course expires before you pass the state examination, Florida DBPR will not accept the expired course completion, and you will need to complete the required pre-license education again before taking the exam.
Example: If you successfully complete your 63-hour course on August 30, 2026, your course completion is valid until August 30, 2028.
Students are encouraged not to wait until the end of the two-year period. Apply for your Florida Real Estate Sales Associate license, complete your Live Scan fingerprinting, and begin preparing for the state examination as soon as possible after completing your course.
Harper School of Real Estate Tip: Take your state examination while the information from your 63-hour course is still fresh!
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What steps do I need to complete to become a licensed Florida Real Estate Sales Associate after enrolling in the 63-Hour Pre-License Course? |
|
|
Students may begin the Florida licensing process while completing the 63-Hour Real Estate Sales Associate Pre-License Course. You do not have to wait until the course is finished to submit your state application or complete your background check. *Since the approval process takes approximately 3 weeks, you may wish to submit the application package before starting the pre-licensing course. Evidence of completing the course must be presented when taking the state examination. Follow these steps: 1. Apply for Your Florida Real Estate Sales Associate License Submit the Initial Sales Associate Application (RE 1) through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). Apply Online: Application Requirements: Estimated DBPR Application Fee: $62.75 You will need to create a DBPR online account and provide your legal name, Social Security number, address, email address, and other required information. 2. Complete Your Live Scan Fingerprinting and Background Check Florida real estate applicants must complete electronic fingerprinting through an approved Live Scan provider. Florida Real Estate ORI Code: FL920010Z It is very important to provide the correct ORI code to the fingerprint provider so your results are submitted to the appropriate Florida licensing agency. Find an Approved Live Scan Provider: DBPR Fingerprinting Information: Fingerprinting fees vary depending on the provider. Keep your fingerprint receipt for your records. 3. Successfully Complete the 63-Hour Pre-License Course Students must successfully complete the Florida-approved 63-Hour Real Estate Sales Associate Pre-License Course before taking the state examination. After successfully completing the course, you will receive a Course Completion Certificate. The certificate is generally valid for two years from the date of course completion. 4. Register for the Florida Real Estate State Examination Once your application has been approved by DBPR and you have successfully completed your 63-hour course, you may schedule the Florida Real Estate Sales Associate State Examination through Pearson VUE. Pearson VUE – Florida Real Estate: The examination is administered at an approved Pearson VUE testing location. Estimated State Examination Fee: Approximately $57.75 per attempt. Fees are subject to change, so students should verify the current examination fee when scheduling. Estimated Licensing CostsStudents should plan for approximately:
Students should budget approximately $160–$185 for the state application, fingerprinting, and examination, in addition to the cost of the 63-hour pre-license course.
|
What happens if I fail my STATE real estate exam?
The applicant can reschedule with Pearson Vue, the testing vendor until the education or authorization for the exam has expired; there are separate expiration dates for your education and your approval for the exam. An authorization to take the exam is suitable for two years from the date a complete application is approved. The education certificate is good for two years from the completion date shown on your completion slip. To learn more, visit their website to find a location near you to set up your exam once your status shows “Exam Eligible.” There is no limit on exam attempts inside the two-year window. Don’t give up!! You never fail; you are always in the process of passing!!
When do I get my Real Estate License after passing the State Exam?
The testing vendor will download the passing grade information to the department’s system, and at that point, the system will automatically issue a license number. The department automatically gives the license within 7-10 business days of passing the examination.
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I passed your state exam!! How do I activate my Sales Associate license? |
|
Congratulations! Once you pass the Florida Real Estate Sales Associate State Examination, you are eligible to become active with a Florida-licensed real estate broker and begin practicing real estate. Your license will initially remain inactive until it is registered with an employing broker. To activate your license, you will need to select a Florida-licensed real estate broker to hold your license. Your broker can then activate your license through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). There are two ways to complete the activation:
DBPR Real Estate Licensing Portal: Until DBPR shows your license as Current/Active under your employing broker, you should not perform services that require an active Florida real estate license. Harper School of Real Estate Tip: Begin researching and interviewing real estate brokerages before taking your state exam. This will allow you to select the brokerage that best fits your career goals and activate your license soon after you pass. |
What are the continuing education requirements for an active Broker or Sales Associate after their first renewal period?
After completing the required post-license education for your first license renewal, active Florida Real Estate Brokers and Sales Associates must complete 14 hours of Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC)-approved Continuing Education every two-year renewal period.
The required 14 hours of Continuing Education consist of:
- 3 hours of Core Law
- 3 hours of Ethics and Business Practices
- 8 hours of Specialty Education
Continuing Education may be completed through an approved classroom or distance education course.
Important: Continuing Education is different from your first renewal requirement. Before the first renewal, a Florida Sales Associate must complete 45 hours of post-license education, while a Florida Broker must complete 60 hours of post-license education. After that first renewal period, the regular 14-hour Continuing Education requirement applies to each subsequent renewal cycle.
Licensees should complete all required education and pay the applicable renewal fee before the license expiration date to maintain their license in good standing.
Harper School of Real Estate Tip: Do not wait until your license is about to expire. Check your DBPR account periodically to confirm your license expiration date and verify that your completed Continuing Education hours have been reported.
DBPR License Portal:
https://www.myfloridalicense.com/RealEstate.asp
What’s the difference between a real estate licensee and a Realtor®? A real estate licensee (sales associate or broker) has taken the state’s licensing course and passed the state exam. A Realtor® is a licensed sales associate or broker who has chosen to become a member of the National Association of Realtors® (NAR) and, by doing so, may use the trademarked term “Realtor®” and the trademark logo “R” on their business cards and marketing materials. In choosing to be a Realtor®, the real estate professional voluntarily agrees to abide by a strict code of ethics that protects clients, the public, and other real estate professionals. So, while all Realtors® are licensees, all licensees are NOT Realtors® - only those who choose to enhance their professionalism.
Broker FAQ:
Can I become a broker before I become a sales associate?
No. The sales associate license is a prerequisite for broker licensure.
How do I become a Real Estate Broker?
To become a real estate broker, you must:
- Hold an active sales associate license;
- complete 24 months of real estate experience within the 5 years before applying for the real estate broker license;
- successfully complete a 72-hour pre-licensing course for brokers;
- submit the completed application, fingerprint card, and appropriate fee (you may submit this package before completing the pre-licensing course);
- pass the Florida Real Estate Broker Examination with a score of at least 75;
- activate the license if you plan to work immediately as a real estate broker;
- Complete the 45-hour post-licensing course for sales associates before the initial sales associate license expiration date.
HELPFUL LINKS
Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation (DBPR):
- All Real Estate Sales Associate Applications/Forms
- Initial Application-Sales Associate License (Form RE 1)
- Activate Your Real Estate License (Form RE 11)
- Sales Associate Name Change (Form RE 10)
- Personal Address Change (Form RE 10)
Florida Division of Real Estate
Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC):
- Real Estate Commission Educational Requirements
- Fingerprinting FAQ’s
- Florida Statutes and Florida Administrative Code
Northeast Florida Association of Realtors
Bureau of Education and Testing
Pearson Vue: