Step-by-Step

Florida Real Estate License Checklist

Follow this checklist in order to go from zero to a licensed Florida sales associate — with each DBPR requirement in the right sequence.

Step by step63 education hoursPearson VUE exam

Quick Answer

What is the checklist to get a Florida real estate license?

Complete 63 hours of DBPR-approved pre-license education, complete a fingerprint background check, pass the Pearson VUE state exam (100 questions, 75% overall), then submit your sales associate application to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation.

Last updated: June 30, 2026

Your Florida license checklist, in order

  • Confirm you are at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Complete the 63-hour FREC-approved pre-license course.
  • Pass the 63-hour course end-of-course exam.
  • Submit electronic fingerprints to the FDLE.
  • Submit your Sales Associate application to the DBPR and pay the fee.
  • Schedule and pass the Florida Sales Associate exam (Pearson VUE) — 100 questions, 75% to pass.
  • Activate your license under a registered broker to begin practicing.
Best for: First-time applicants who want a clear, ordered plan. Keep every certificate and receipt — the DBPR can audit records. See the full cost breakdown to budget each step.

Frequently asked questions

What is the first step to getting a Florida real estate license?

Start your DBPR-approved education: the 63-hour pre-license course. Most approved courses are online and self-paced so you can begin right away.

Do the steps have to be done in a specific order?

Education comes first, then fingerprinting and the Pearson VUE state exam, then your application to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation. Confirm the exact sequence on the DBPR site.

How long does the whole process take?

Motivated students often finish in a few months. Course access, exam scheduling, and application review each add time depending on your pace and the state’s current turnaround.

What is the 45-hour post-license course in Florida?

After you get your Sales Associate license, Florida requires a 45-hour post-license course before your first renewal (roughly 18–24 months later). It is separate from the 63-hour pre-license course.

Reviewed by

Jennifer Williams

Founder of Click2CE Real Estate School and the designated School Director for Arizona (ADRE School S26-0002). Licensed real estate broker in 40+ states, Certified Distance Education Instructor (CDEI), and ARELLO-certified. Jennifer reviews every course and guide for regulatory accuracy.

Read Jennifer’s full bio

Sources & references

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