Most states require 2–5 years as a licensed agent before applying for a broker license. You’ll also need broker-specific coursework (60–270 hours) and proof of closed deals. Some states accept equivalent work experience. We break down everything you need to qualify faster and smarter.
What qualifies you as a broker varies by state, but at minimum, it includes your track record as an agent, educational completion, and proof that you can handle the added responsibilities brokers take on. If you’re wondering how long it takes to go solo, the average is 3 to 5 years, but there are ways to streamline the process, depending on your goals.
At Realty Hub, we help licensed agents skip the traditional commission splits and operate with near-broker-level autonomy, without needing to wait years or manage a team. Our flat-fee model ($100/year + $100/transaction) gives you freedom now, not later.
Want to know the state-by-state timelines, alternative paths, and how to avoid the usual hang-ups? Keep reading.
This guide breaks down everything, so you can decide if going for your broker license is the right move, or if there’s a smarter path forward.
Broker License Requirements by State (and What They Really Mean)
No matter where you’re licensed, the path to becoming a broker starts with experience. Most states require 2 to 5 years of full-time work as a licensed real estate agent. But “experience” can mean different things depending on the state.
- Florida: Requires at least 24 months of active licensure within the past 5 years, plus 72 hours of approved broker education.
- Georgia: Also asks for 3 years of active licensure, but places extra emphasis on the types of transactions completed.
- California: Requires 2 years full-time licensed experience or a 4-year real estate degree, and you must document your deals.
- Texas: Demands 4 years of experience, 900 classroom hours total, and proof of at least 360 points of qualifying transactions.
Many agents are surprised to learn that some states value transaction volume over just time served. That’s why keeping a detailed log of every closed deal is critical. Don’t wait until you’re applying, start your transaction journal on Day One.
What Actually Qualifies You as a Broker?
Becoming a broker means you’ve shown the state you can handle the legal, ethical, and operational responsibilities that come with the role. Here’s what that typically involves:
- Broker-specific coursework: Most states require between 60 and 270 hours of advanced real estate education. Florida, for example, requires 72 hours covering topics like property management, real estate law, and investment strategy.
- Proof of experience: You’ll need to submit a portfolio of closed transactions. Some states ask for specific forms or affidavits signed by your managing broker.
- Broker exam: This usually includes both national and state-specific sections. Most states require a 70–75% passing score, and prep courses significantly improve your odds.
- Application and background check: Be prepared to submit fingerprints, undergo a background check, and pay licensing fees between $150 and $300 depending on your state.
States want more than just time in the field, they want proof you’ve operated responsibly, ethically, and with enough complexity to justify the step up.
Can I Skip the Agent Step?
Yes, but it’s rare. Some states allow you to substitute traditional agent experience with related real estate work, such as:
- Licensed appraisers
- Licensed loan officers
- Property managers with documented experience
- Attorneys practicing real estate law
However, foreign experience (even if you’ve sold properties abroad) usually does not count toward broker eligibility. Similarly, doing a few personal deals on your own properties won’t qualify you. States are looking for licensed, verifiable professional activity under U.S. brokerage oversight.
It’s a common misconception: “I sold property overseas; that should count.” Unfortunately, unless your experience meets your state’s real estate licensing laws, it won’t qualify.
What You Should Do To Save Time
Don’t forget course pacing rules. Some states require a minimum number of days between modules (e.g., 18–21 days per course). You can’t just binge classes in a weekend.
- Start logging transactions immediately.
- Choose online broker courses with flexible schedules.
- Join a flat-fee brokerage like Realty Hub to keep more of your income while gaining your experience.
Why burn time (and money) with traditional split-based models when you can operate nearly independently today?
Common Roadblocks and Agent Worries
If you’ve ever read your state’s licensing handbook and walked away with more questions than answers, you’re not alone. State regulations around broker licensing can be confusing, vague, and inconsistent.
For instance, many agents ask: “Can I act as a broker as soon as I have my license?”
The answer is no, you must complete your broker application, receive state approval, and activate your license before you can legally operate independently.
Another common concern is the so-called “referral-only” status. Some Realtor associations suggest that if you leave the association, you can only do referrals. That’s a scare tactic, not a legal restriction. At Realty Hub, many of our agents operate fully without joining NAR or a local board, especially if they don’t need MLS access.
Then there’s the issue of association dues. Agents often feel forced to pay for memberships they don’t use, just to “stay legit.” But in many states, you’re legally allowed to operate as a licensee without MLS or Realtor membership if your brokerage allows it. Realty Hub supports that freedom.
Tips to Qualify Faster (Without Burning Out)
Becoming a broker doesn’t have to be a five-year slog. Here’s how to move efficiently, without sacrificing sanity:
- Log every transaction from day one. Even rental deals count in some states. Use a spreadsheet or compliance platform.
- Choose online broker courses. Self-paced options let you study during downtime (between showings or school pickups).
- Join a flat-fee brokerage like Realty Hub. You’ll save thousands annually, making it easier to invest in your education without sacrificing commission.
- Avoid “training-heavy” brokerages that bury you in meetings, quotas, and internal politics. What you need is experience, not micromanagement.
Our model at Realty Hub gives you freedom, structure, and simplicity so you can move toward broker status on your own terms.
Why Some Agents Don’t Become Brokers (And That’s Okay)
Not everyone wants to run a brokerage. And honestly, you don’t have to.
- Associate brokers earn more credibility (and often better splits) than agents but don’t carry the burden of supervising others.
- Not everyone wants to manage agents. Some brokers love coaching and leadership. Others just want more independence or legal autonomy.
- Brokerage ownership isn’t the only goal. Many high-performing agents build six-figure businesses without ever opening an office.
The truth? Success in real estate isn’t one-size-fits-all. At Realty Hub, we support agents whether they’re chasing a broker license, or simply want to maximize profits and autonomy where they are.
Should You Start Working Toward Your Broker License?
If your goal is greater independence, control, and income, becoming a broker might be your next logical step. It gives you the legal authority to operate solo, build a team, or launch your own firm.
But if you’re not interested in supervising agents, navigating state compliance filings, or taking on the liability of running a brokerage, staying at the agent level can still be a smart, profitable choice.
And here’s where Realty Hub comes in.
We’ve built a model that gives you near-broker autonomy, without needing a broker license. You keep 100% of your commission, pay just $100 per year plus $100 per transaction, and skip the endless meetings, quotas, and micromanagement found in traditional firms.
Want to work across markets? Go for it. Prefer not to join the REALTOR® association? That’s fine with us. Need a broker who answers your questions without red tape? We’ve got you covered.
Ready to Work Like a Broker Without the Wait?
Most agents spend years chasing a broker license just to gain freedom they could already have. At Realty Hub, we help you operate independently today, not three years from now.
Here’s how we do it:
- Flat-fee structure: $100/year and $100/transaction. No commission splits. Ever.
- No franchise dues or office fees: Keep more, spend less.
- Real support when you need it: Our broker responds directly, and our private agent group keeps you connected.
So if you’re tired of splitting your commission while waiting to “earn” freedom, it’s time to stop waiting.
FAQ: Questions Agents Ask (That Most Blogs Don’t Answer)
Do I need MLS access to qualify for a broker license?
No. Broker licensure is based on your active license status, experience, and education, not MLS membership. While some local Realtor boards may require MLS access for listing properties, it’s not a requirement to obtain your broker license.
Can I get paid for real estate deals if I’m not under a broker?
No. Until your broker license is officially active and approved by the state, all commissions must be processed through a licensed supervising broker. Accepting payment outside that structure is considered illegal and could jeopardize your license.
How soon after passing the broker exam can I open my own firm?
It depends on your state. Some states activate your broker license immediately after you pass the exam and complete a background check. Others may take several weeks for final approval. You can’t legally operate your own firm until your license is fully active and on record with the state.
Can I do personal real estate deals as a broker?
Yes, once you’re officially licensed as a broker, you can handle your own personal transactions. However, all standard disclosure, record-keeping, and compliance laws still apply. If you’re not yet licensed as a broker, you must work through a licensed brokerage, even for your own property deals.
