When I first started researching how long does it take to get a real estate license, I expected a quick, one-size-fits-all answer. Spoiler alert—it’s not that simple. The process can take anywhere from two to six months, depending on your state’s education requirements, how fast you study, and how long background checks or application approvals take.
Let’s break it all down clearly so you know what to expect—and how to move faster if you’re eager to jump-start your real estate career.
What Actually Determines Your Timeline?
The time it takes to become a licensed real estate agent depends on several key factors:
- Education hours required by your state – These range from 40 to 180 hours.
- Course delivery method – Online courses allow self-pacing and can shorten your timeline.
- Exam and background check scheduling – Delays here often add a few extra weeks.
For example, Florida requires 63 hours of coursework, while Texas mandates 180 hours. Some states, like California, require 135 hours—spread across three separate courses. These differences alone can stretch your timeline from a few weeks to several months.
Typical Timeline for Getting a Real Estate License
1. Complete Pre-Licensing Education
Time frame: A few weeks to several months
Your first major step is completing the required coursework.
- Online courses: If you’re disciplined, you can finish self-paced online classes in just a few weeks.
- Classroom courses: In-person programs follow fixed schedules and typically take 4–6 months.
State-by-state examples:
- California – 135 hours of education (usually around 7–8 weeks minimum).
- Florida – 63 hours of coursework, often finished in under two months.
- New York – 77-hour program that full-time students can complete in about four weeks.
- Texas – 180 hours total, which can take a full-time student 5–6 weeks, but most people need closer to three months.
2. Schedule and Take the State Exam
Time frame: 1–3 weeks
Once your education is done, you can schedule your state exam. Wait times depend on testing-center availability. The exam usually includes both a national and state-specific portion. It’s multiple-choice, and you can retake it if necessary—though solid prep usually prevents that delay.
3. Undergo a Background Check
Time frame: 2–8 weeks
Most states require fingerprinting and a background check before your license can be issued. For example, Arizona’s Fingerprint Clearance Card can take up to 8–10 weeks, while many other states complete this step in 2–4 weeks.
4. Find a Sponsoring Broker
Time frame: 1–3 months
Before your license becomes active, you need to align with a licensed real estate broker. Some states let you start the search earlier, while others require it after you’ve passed your exam. A good fit with a broker is critical since they’ll supervise your initial transactions.
5. Submit Your License Application
Time frame: 2–6 weeks
After passing the exam and finding a broker, it’s time to submit your license application. Processing times vary widely—Florida’s Department of Business and Professional Regulation generally approves complete applications in 10–30 days, while states like California may take six to eight weeks.
Average Duration by State
| State | Estimated Timeline | Key Requirement |
| Florida | ~2 months | 63-hour course + exam within weeks |
| California | ~15 weeks | 135 hours + 6–8 weeks DRE processing |
| New York | ~1 month | 77-hour course + fast test scheduling |
| Texas | ~3–6 months | 180 hours + broker sponsorship |
| Arizona | ~3 months | 90 hours + fingerprint clearance |
So, if you’re wondering how long does it take to get a real estate license in your specific state, this chart should help you visualize where you might fall on the timeline.
How to Speed Up the Process Without Cutting Corners
I’ve seen new agents shave weeks off their licensing timeline by being strategic. Here’s how:
- Choose an accredited online course provider. Self-paced options like Colibri Real Estate or AceableAgent let you move at your own speed.
- Book your exam early. Don’t wait until your course ends—secure your test slot in advance.
- Handle your fingerprints and background check right away. This step often causes the biggest delays.
- Research brokers while you’re studying. That way, you can sign with one immediately after passing your test.
If you stay consistent, you can realistically complete everything in 8–10 weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How many hours of education do I need for my license?
Requirements vary by state—from 40 hours in Michigan to 180 hours in Texas. Most states sit between 60 and 120 hours, combining national and state-specific material.
2. Can I really get my license in under two months?
Yes, if you live in a state with fewer education hours (like Florida or New York) and take an online, self-paced course. Many dedicated students do it in 6–8 weeks.
3. How many times can I retake the exam?
Most states allow multiple retakes, though you may have to pay a re-testing fee. Check your state’s real estate commission for specific rules.
4. Do I need to find a broker before I apply?
Yes, in most states. Your license won’t become active until you affiliate with a broker who can oversee your first few transactions.
So, How Long Does It Take to Get a Real Estate License—Really?
When people ask how long does it take to get a real estate license, the most accurate answer is: it depends. For most aspiring agents, the process takes between two and four months, but dedicated learners who complete online courses quickly can earn their license in as little as eight weeks.
Factors like your state’s education requirements, exam availability, and background-check timing all influence your personal timeline. The good news? With steady effort, organized scheduling, and early planning, you’ll be holding that license—and closing your first deal—sooner than you think.
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