Connecticut Real Estate License Requirements

To become a licensed real estate agent in Connecticut, you must complete 60 hours of state-approved education, pass the official salesperson exam, find a sponsoring brokerage, and submit your license application. The entire process typically takes between four and eight weeks, depending on your study schedule and how quickly you complete the necessary steps. This guide covers everything you need to know to start your real estate career in Connecticut.

Quick Connecticut License Facts

Requirement	Details
Education Hours	60 hours (One required course)
Estimated Timeline	4-8 weeks, varies by study schedule
Age Requirement	18+ years old
Background Check	Not Required for Application
Exam Format	Computer-based, multiple-choice
Official Body	CT Department of Consumer Protection

Disclaimer: Always verify current requirements with the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection.

How to Get Your Connecticut Real Estate License in 4 Steps

Step 1: Complete 60 Hours of Pre-License Education

Connecticut requires aspiring real estate salespersons to complete a 60-hour course from an approved educational provider.

Required Course:

Real Estate Principles and Practices (60 hours)

Study Schedule Considerations: The time it takes to finish the course depends on your availability and learning style. Self-paced online options offer great flexibility, while scheduled in-person or virtual classes provide a more structured learning environment.

Step 2: Pass the Connecticut Real Estate Exam

After completing your coursework, you must pass the Connecticut Real Estate Salesperson Exam, which is administered by PSI.

Format: A computer-based test with separate national and state-specific sections.
Passing Score: You must achieve a score of 70% or higher on each section.
Exam Topics Include:

Connecticut license law and regulations
Property ownership, land use controls, and agency laws
Contracts and fiduciary responsibilities
Property valuation, financing, and closing practices
Federal and state fair housing laws

Always check with the CT Department of Consumer Protection and the PSI Candidate Handbook for the most current exam details, fees, and scheduling information.

Step 3: Submit Your License Application

Application: Once you pass the state exam, you can submit your official license application to the Department of Consumer Protection.
Broker Sponsorship: Your application must be signed by your sponsoring broker.
Fees: Pay all required application and licensing fees.
Disclosure: While a background check is not part of the initial application, you must disclose any past criminal convictions. Applications are reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

Step 4: Find a Sponsoring Broker

In Connecticut, a real estate salesperson must work under the supervision of a licensed broker. This relationship is fundamental to your success and compliance.

Broker Role: Your broker provides essential training, mentorship, and legal oversight for all your real estate activities.
Finding a Broker: Research local brokerages to find one that aligns with your career goals, offers a supportive training environment, and has a commission structure that works for you.

Connecticut Real Estate License Costs

The total cost to get your license in Connecticut can vary, but the table below provides a general breakdown of the primary expenses. For a visual representation, please see the interactive chart.

Expense Category	Estimated Cost Range	Notes
Pre-License Education	$300 – $500	Varies significantly by school and format (online vs. in-person).
License Application Fee	~$80	Set by the CT Department of Consumer Protection.
State Exam Fee	~$65	Paid to the testing vendor (PSI).
Total Estimated Cost	$445 – $645	Does not include optional materials or post-license business costs.

Note: These are estimates. Always check the official Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection website and your chosen school/vendor for the most current fee schedules.

Ongoing Costs to Consider:

License Renewal: Licenses must be renewed annually.
Continuing Education: 12 hours of CE are required for every two-year renewal cycle.
MLS Fees: Varies by local board/association.
Errors & Omissions (E&O) Insurance: Often required by your broker.
Professional Association Dues: Optional but recommended fees for joining local, state, and national Realtor® associations.

Connecticut Real Estate License Cost Breakdown

Estimated Initial Licensing Costs in Connecticut

A visual breakdown of typical startup expenses for a Connecticut license.

Disclaimer: These figures are estimates for 2025 and can vary significantly based on the school chosen, promotions, and any changes in state fees. Always check official sources for the most current costs.

Connecticut Real Estate Schools

When selecting a real estate school, consider factors like learning format, support services, pricing, and student reviews. Here are some well-known state-approved providers for Connecticut:

The CE Shop

Benefits: Offers a 40% military discount and a free trial of their platform.
Website: theceshop.com

Colibri Real Estate

Benefits: Features a “Pass or Don’t Pay” guarantee and provides instructor Q&A sessions.
Website: colibrirealestate.com

Connecticut Association of Realtors

Benefits: Provides training directly from the state’s leading industry association, offering excellent networking opportunities.
Website: ctrealtors.com

School Selection Tips:

Compare current pricing and package options.
Read recent student reviews and pass rates.
Consider your preferred learning style (online, in-person, hybrid).
Check for pass guarantees or money-back options.
Verify military discounts if applicable.
Ensure the school is approved by the CT Department of Consumer Protection.

Contact schools directly for current pricing, promotions, and specific features.

Connecticut Real Estate Exam Preparation

Study Strategies for Success

Create a consistent study plan to cover all the material without rushing.
Aim for a deep understanding of the concepts, not just rote memorization of terms.
Use practice tests extensively to gauge your progress and find your weak spots.
Devote special focus to Connecticut’s unique laws and agency regulations.
Schedule a final review period after completing your course to solidify your knowledge.

Key Areas to Master

Real estate math, including prorations and commission calculations.
Fiduciary duties and the different types of agency relationships.
Connecticut’s specific property condition disclosure requirements.
The elements of a valid contract and lease agreement.
State and federal fair housing laws.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid in Your Studies

Procrastinating on Coursework: Trying to rush through 60 hours of dense material is a recipe for failure. Pace yourself.
Skipping Timed Practice Exams: Not simulating test conditions can lead to poor time management and anxiety during the real exam.
Ignoring State-Specific Details: The state portion of the exam is detailed; giving it less attention than the national section is a common mistake.
Inefficient Pacing on Test Day: Running out of time is a preventable error. Practice will help you manage the clock effectively.

How Your Professional Background Can Accelerate Your Success

Your past work experience can give you a unique edge in the real estate industry:

For Sales Professionals: Your expertise in client management, negotiation tactics, and working in a performance-based role gives you a significant competitive advantage.
For Teachers and Educators: Your methodical study skills, ability to simplify complex information for others, and patient demeanor are perfect for guiding clients through transactions.
For Military and Veterans: Your inherent discipline, integrity, and familiarity with the challenges of relocation (including VA loans) can create strong bonds with clients.
For Career Changers: While you’ll need to learn the industry from the ground up, the unique skills and fresh perspective you bring from another field are extremely valuable.

Regardless of your past career, your success in real estate will be driven by your dedication, work ethic, and commitment to continuous learning.

Understanding the Connecticut Real Estate Market

Key Market Dynamics

The Connecticut real estate market is a compelling mix of history and modernity, defined by:

Proximity to major economic hubs like New York City and Boston, influencing commuter towns.
A diverse range of communities, from coastal cities and historic New England villages to suburban enclaves and rural landscapes.
A rich housing stock that includes historic colonials, waterfront properties, and modern new construction.
Steady demand across various price points, influenced by local economies and regional migration trends.

Potential Niches for New Agents

New agents can build a successful business by concentrating on specific areas, such as:

Guiding first-time homebuyers through the purchasing process.
Specializing in waterfront or luxury properties along the coastline.
Focusing on historic homes in classic New England towns.
Serving the rental market in cities or near universities.
Assisting clients who are downsizing or relocating.

The real estate market is constantly evolving. Stay informed by monitoring local MLS statistics, reading market analyses, and following industry news.

Connecticut-Specific Legal Requirements

Disclosure

Connecticut has specific laws governing the Residential Property Condition Disclosure Report. Agents must have a thorough understanding of these requirements to advise clients correctly and ensure all legal obligations are met. Your pre-licensing course and broker’s training will provide extensive detail on this topic.

Criminal History

While the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection does not require a criminal background check as part of the initial application, you are required to disclose any convictions. The Commission reviews these disclosures on a case-by-case basis. Honesty and completeness are critical.

State laws and regulations are complex. Proper education and the continuous guidance of your sponsoring broker are essential for compliant practice.

Getting Started – Action Steps

Research & Enroll: Compare approved Connecticut schools and enroll in the 60-hour pre-licensing course that best suits your learning style and budget.
Schedule Your Exam: As you near the end of your coursework, visit the PSI website to register and schedule your state exam.
Start Networking: Begin researching local brokerages. Connect with brokers and agents to learn about their company culture, training programs, and mentorship opportunities to find the right fit for your career.

Continuing Education and License Renewal

Renewal Requirements

Connecticut real estate licenses for salespersons are renewed annually by May 31st. To maintain your license, you must complete 12 hours of continuing education every two years (during each even-numbered renewal cycle).

Check the Department of Consumer Protection website for the most current continuing education requirements and a list of approved courses.

Professional Development

To excel in the industry, consider ongoing training in specialized markets, new real estate technologies, and advanced legal topics beyond the minimum CE requirements.

Official Resources and Support

Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection: The official source for all licensing rules, applications, and fee schedules. portal.ct.gov/dcp/real-estate
PSI / Testing Vendor: The official vendor for scheduling and taking the state exam.
Connecticut Association of REALTORS®: The state’s largest professional association for real estate agents, offering resources, education, and advocacy.

Disclaimers

Accuracy Notice: This guide is for informational purposes. All requirements, fees, and timelines are subject to change. Always verify information with the official Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection.
No Legal Advice: This content is not legal or financial advice.
School Information: School offerings, prices, and promotions change. Contact schools directly for the most current details.

This guide was last updated in July 2025. For a personalized plan based on your background and goals, use the AI Real Estate Career Planner tool.