How to Become a Real Estate Agent in 2026: Step-by-Step

Is Becoming a Real Estate Agent Right for You?

If you’re reading this, you’re probably thinking about becoming a real estate agent. It’s a career move a lot of people consider, and for good reason.

As of 2025-26, the U.S. boasts 1,489,932 Realtors—that’s agents who are members of the National Association of REALTORS®. But 2 million real estate agents work across the country when you include all licensees. Despite market ups and downs, the industry keeps attracting new professionals.

Overall employment of real estate brokers and sales agents is projected to grow 3 percent from 2024 to 2034, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That’s about as fast as average for all occupations. NAR forecasts existing-home sales are projected to rise by around 14% in 2026, with the expected rebound reflecting easing mortgage rates, continued job gains, and improving market stability.

More importantly, 88% of buyers and 91% of sellers used an agent or broker in their most recent transaction. The need for skilled agents isn’t going away.

Why Agents Choose This Career

We’ve talked to hundreds of agents over the years. Here’s what keeps them in the business.

You Control Your Schedule and Income

Real estate is performance-based. You’re not punching a clock or waiting for an annual raise. The median annual wage for real estate sales agents was $56,320 in May 2024, but that number doesn’t tell the whole story. Top performers earn six figures and beyond.

Want to work evenings and weekends but take Tuesdays off? You can do that. Need flexibility to pick up kids from school? Build your schedule around it. The trade-off is that you’re responsible for your own success.

Every Day Is Different

One morning you’re hosting an open house. That afternoon you’re negotiating an offer. The next day you’re meeting a first-time buyer or photographing a new listing. If you get bored doing the same thing every day, real estate solves that problem.

You Help People Make Life-Changing Decisions

For most clients, buying or selling a home is the biggest financial transaction they’ll ever make. You’re not just processing paperwork—you’re helping a family find their dream home or helping a seller move into the next chapter of their life. That’s genuinely satisfying work.

Low Barrier to Entry

You don’t need a four-year degree. You don’t need $100,000 to start a business. You need a high school diploma, some coursework, and the ability to pass an exam. Compared to other careers with similar earning potential, real estate is remarkably accessible.

What It Actually Takes to Get Licensed

Real estate licenses are state-specific. There’s no national license. That means requirements vary, but the overall process is similar everywhere.

Step 1: Meet Basic Eligibility Requirements

In most states you need to be at least 18 years old (a few states require 19). You’ll need a high school diploma or GED. Some states require you to be a legal U.S. resident, but most don’t require citizenship.

Most states run a background check. A criminal record doesn’t automatically disqualify you, but you’ll need to disclose it. The real estate commission reviews each case individually.

Step 2: Complete Pre-Licensing Education

Every state requires pre-licensing coursework. The number of hours varies widely:

• California: 135 hours (three 45-hour courses)
• Texas: 180 hours
• Florida: 63 hours
• New York: 77 hours
• Massachusetts: 40 hours
• Pennsylvania: 75 hours

You can take courses online, in a classroom, or through live streaming. Online is the most popular option because you can work through the material on your own schedule. Most students finish in 2 to 3 months if they’re working part-time on coursework.

These courses cover real estate principles, property law, contracts, financing, ethics, and Fair Housing. They’re not just checking a box—they’re teaching you what you’ll actually need to know when you start working with clients.

Before choosing a school, make sure it’s approved by your state’s real estate commission. Good options include visit The CE Shop. for comprehensive online education.

Step 3: Pass the State Licensing Exam

Once you finish your coursework, you apply to take your state’s licensing exam. The exam has two parts: a national portion covering general real estate concepts, and a state-specific portion covering your state’s laws and regulations.

You need to pass both sections, usually with a score of at least 70%. The exam is computer-based and proctored at a testing center.

Not everyone passes on the first try. Pass rates vary by state, but they typically range from 55% to 70% for first-time test-takers. That’s why exam prep matters.

We recommend using a dedicated exam prep course after you finish your pre-licensing education. Real Estate Exam Scholar offers comprehensive practice exams and review materials that mirror the actual test format.

Step 4: Submit Your License Application

After you pass the exam, you submit your license application to your state’s real estate regulatory agency. This usually involves:

• Completing an online application
• Paying an application fee (typically $50-$200)
• Submitting fingerprints for a background check
• Providing proof of your completed education and exam results

Processing times vary. Some states approve licenses within days; others take several weeks.

For more information about licensing regulations across all states, check ARELLO, the Association of Real Estate License Law Officials.

Step 5: Find a Sponsoring Broker

Here’s the part most new agents don’t realize: you can’t work independently right away. In every state, new agents must work under a licensed broker. The broker supervises your transactions and ensures you’re following the law.

Some agents join large national brokerages like RE/MAX, while others prefer newer models like EXP Realty, which offers virtual office options and agent equity opportunities.

When choosing a brokerage, consider:

• Commission split (how much of your commission you keep vs. what goes to the broker)
• Training and mentorship programs for new agents
• Technology and CRM tools provided
• Office culture and support
• Desk fees or monthly costs

Don’t rush this decision. Interview multiple brokers before you commit.

How Long Does the Whole Process Take?

From starting your pre-licensing courses to receiving your active license, most people take 2 to 6 months. The timeline depends on:

• How quickly you complete your coursework (self-paced online vs. scheduled classroom)
• How long it takes to schedule and pass your exam
• Your state’s application processing time
• How quickly you find a sponsoring broker

If you’re motivated and working on it consistently, you can get licensed in as little as 8 to 12 weeks.

What It Costs to Get Your License

Budget between $500 and $1,500 total, depending on your state. Here’s what you’re paying for:

• Pre-licensing course: $200-$600
• Exam prep materials: $50-$200 (optional but recommended)
• Exam fee: $50-$100
• License application fee: $50-$200
• Background check/fingerprinting: $30-$100

Some brokerages reimburse part of your licensing costs once you join them. Ask about that when you’re interviewing brokers.

After You Get Licensed: What Comes Next

Getting your license is step one. Building a business is step two.

Post-Licensing Education

Many states require additional education after you get your license. For example, Florida requires 45 hours of post-licensing education within your first renewal period. Check your state’s requirements so you don’t miss deadlines.

Continuing Education

Even after your initial license period, you’ll need continuing education to renew your license every 2 to 4 years (renewal periods vary by state). This is usually 10 to 20 hours per renewal cycle.

For ongoing education throughout your career, CE Shop offers continuing education courses approved in most states.

Join Your Local Association

Joining the National Association of REALTORS® (and your local and state associations) is optional, but most successful agents do it. Membership gives you access to the MLS, continuing education, legal resources, and the ability to use the REALTOR® trademark.

Find your local association through the NAR website.

Common Mistakes New Agents Make

We see the same mistakes over and over. Here’s how to avoid them.

Not Having a Financial Cushion

Your first commission check probably won’t come for 60 to 90 days. If you’re switching careers, have 3 to 6 months of living expenses saved before you make the jump.

Skipping Exam Prep

The pre-licensing course teaches you the material. Exam prep teaches you how to pass the test. They’re not the same thing. Invest in quality exam prep and take multiple practice tests.

Choosing the Wrong Broker

The highest commission split isn’t always the best deal, especially when you’re new. A brokerage with strong training, mentorship, and lead generation support is worth more than an extra 5% commission split.

Not Treating It Like a Real Business

Real estate is entrepreneurship. You’re not getting a job; you’re starting a business. That means budgeting for marketing, building systems, prospecting consistently, and working when you don’t feel like it.

Is the Market Still Good for New Agents in 2026?

About 65% of agents report a positive outlook for their real estate career, and more than 86% expect to still be in business next year. Nearly two-thirds believe their income outlook is stable or improving.

The market is competitive. Inventory is still tight in many areas. But states like Florida, Texas, North Carolina, and Colorado continue to lead due to rapid migration and consistent homebuying demand.

Here’s what matters more than market conditions: Agents who embrace technology, specialize in niche markets, or maintain strong client relationships tend to have a more resilient career outlook across any market cycle.

Don’t wait for a “perfect” market to get licensed. Real estate is cyclical. The agents who succeed are the ones who build their skills and their sphere of influence regardless of what interest rates are doing.

Your Next Step

If you’ve read this far, you’re serious about this career. Here’s what to do today:

1. Verify your state’s specific licensing requirements (hours, fees, timeline)
2. Enroll in an approved pre-licensing course from a reputable provider
3. Set a target date for when you want your license in hand
4. Start researching brokerages in your area (even before you finish your coursework)
5. Connect with active agents and ask about their experience—most are willing to share

Real estate isn’t for everyone. It takes hustle, resilience, and the ability to manage rejection. But if you’re a self-starter who likes working with people and values flexibility, it’s one of the most rewarding careers out there.

The market needs good agents. If you’re willing to do the work, there’s room for you.