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Sales & Marketing

How to become a Real Estate Agent

From no experience: every step, how long it takes, and the credential it earns.

Time to get there
3–6 months
Typical pay
$45k–$95k
Starting from
No experience

Pay is an estimate of typical US entry-level pay for this role and varies by state, employer and shift. The timeline assumes you are starting from no experience and includes any licence or programme legally required, not just course length.

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The route

  1. Complete pre-licensing education

    State-mandated hours, typically 60–180 depending where you are.

    Course that covers thisHow to Get Your Real Estate License FastUdemy · around $24.99
  2. Pass the state exam

    National and state-specific sections, plus fingerprinting.

    State real estate salesperson licence

  3. Hang your licence with a brokerage

    You cannot practise independently at first. Choose one that actually trains.

  4. Survive the first year

    Income is commission-only and slow to start. Budget for six months of nothing.

  5. Destination

    Real Estate Agent

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