Delaware Real Estate License Requirements

To earn your Delaware real estate license, you must complete 99 hours of state-approved education, pass the official salesperson exam, secure sponsorship from a licensed broker, and submit your application with a criminal history report. The entire process typically takes between six and twelve weeks, depending on your study pace and how efficiently you navigate the requirements. This guide outlines everything you need to know to launch your career in Delaware real estate.

Quick Delaware License Facts

Requirement	Details
Education Hours	99 hours (One required course)
Estimated Timeline	6-12 weeks, varies by study schedule
Age Requirement	18+ years old
Background Check	Required
Exam Format	Computer-based, multiple-choice
Official Body	DE Division of Professional Regulation

Disclaimer: Always verify current requirements with the Delaware Division of Professional Regulation.

How to Get Your Delaware Real Estate License in 4 Steps

Step 1: Complete 99 Hours of Pre-License Education

Delaware requires aspiring real estate salespersons to complete a 99-hour pre-licensing course from an approved provider.

Required Course:

Real Estate Salesperson’s Course (99 hours)

Study Schedule Considerations: The time required to complete your education depends on your personal schedule and learning preference. Self-paced online courses offer the most flexibility, while scheduled classes provide structure and direct interaction with instructors.

Step 2: Pass the Delaware Real Estate Exam

After finishing your coursework, you must pass the Delaware Real Estate Salesperson Exam, which is administered by Pearson VUE.

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:

Delaware license law and commission regulations
Property rights, land use controls, and agency
Contracts, fiduciary duties, and market analysis
Financing and closing procedures
Federal and state fair housing laws

Always consult the Delaware Division of Professional Regulation and the Pearson VUE Candidate Handbook for the most current exam information, fees, and scheduling procedures.

Step 3: Submit Your License Application & Background Check

Application: After passing the exam, you can submit your license application via the DELPROS online portal.
Background Check: You must obtain a state and federal criminal history report from the State Bureau of Identification.
Fees: Pay all necessary application and licensing fees.
Disclosure: Delaware law requires a full disclosure of any past criminal convictions, which are reviewed on a case-by-case basis by the Real Estate Commission.

Step 4: Find a Sponsoring Broker

In Delaware, a new salesperson must be affiliated with a licensed broker to practice. This sponsorship is essential for your training and legal oversight.

Broker Role: Your sponsoring broker provides critical training, mentorship, and is legally responsible for your transactions and professional conduct.
Finding a Broker: Research local brokerages to find one that aligns with your career goals, offers a robust training program, and has a supportive culture.

Delaware Real Estate License Costs

The total investment to get your license in Delaware can vary, but the following table details the primary expenses. A visual breakdown is available in the interactive chart.

Expense Category	Estimated Cost Range	Notes
Pre-License Education	$400 – $600	The largest variable, depending on the school and format (online vs. in-person).
License & Guaranty Fund Fee	~$131	Set by the Delaware Division of Professional Regulation.
State Exam Fee	~$85	Paid directly to the testing service (Pearson VUE).
Background Check Fee	~$65	For the required state and federal criminal history report.
Total Estimated Cost	$681 – $881	Excludes optional study materials or business start-up costs.

Note: These figures are estimates. Always confirm current fees with the Delaware Division of Professional Regulation and your selected vendors.

Ongoing Costs to Consider:

License Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every two years.
Continuing Education: 21 hours of CE are mandatory for each renewal cycle.
MLS Dues: Costs vary by the local REALTOR® association.
Errors & Omissions (E&O) Insurance: Often required by your brokerage.
Professional Association Fees: Optional memberships in local, state, and national REALTOR® associations.

Delaware Real Estate License Cost Breakdown

Estimated Initial Licensing Costs in Delaware

A visual breakdown of typical startup expenses for a Delaware 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.

Delaware Real Estate Schools

When choosing a school, evaluate its learning formats, student support, cost, and reputation. Here are several well-regarded, state-approved providers in Delaware:

The CE Shop

Benefits: Provides a 40% military discount and offers student support seven days a week.
Website: theceshop.com

Colibri Real Estate

Benefits: Features a “Pass or Don’t Pay” guarantee and offers both self-paced and livestream course formats.
Website: colibrirealestate.com

Delaware Association of Realtors

Benefits: Offers state-focused education, advocacy, and professional resources directly from the industry’s leading association.
Website: delawarerealtor.com

School Selection Tips:

Compare up-to-date pricing and available packages.
Look into recent student testimonials and pass rates.
Match the format (online, classroom, hybrid) to your learning style.
Inquire about any pass or money-back guarantees.
If applicable, confirm military or veteran discounts.
Ensure the provider is officially approved by the Delaware Division of Professional Regulation.

Contact schools directly for the latest information on pricing, promotions, and course features.

Delaware Real Estate Exam Preparation

Study Strategies for Success

Develop a disciplined study schedule to manage the 99 hours of material effectively.
Concentrate on grasping the “why” behind the laws and practices, not just memorizing definitions.
Regularly take practice exams under timed conditions to build stamina and identify knowledge gaps.
Pay extra attention to Delaware-specific regulations, contracts, and agency laws.
Reserve the week before your exam for a comprehensive review of all topics.

Key Areas to Master

Real estate math, including property tax calculations and closing cost prorations.
Agency relationships (agent, broker, client) and their associated fiduciary duties.
Delaware’s property condition disclosure and notice requirements.
The components of legally binding contracts and leases.
Federal and state fair housing and anti-discrimination laws.

Study Habits to Reconsider

Marathon Study Sessions: Attempting to cram 99 hours of complex information is an ineffective strategy. Consistent, shorter study periods are more productive.
Avoiding Exam Simulation: If you don’t take full-length, timed practice tests, you won’t be prepared for the pace and pressure of the official exam.
Overlooking State-Specific Nuances: The Delaware-specific portion of the exam is detailed and requires dedicated focus. Don’t assume it’s easier than the national section.
Poor Clock Management: Practice managing your time during mock exams to ensure you can address every question without rushing on test day.

Leveraging Your Professional Background for a Real Estate Career

Your previous profession can provide a powerful launchpad for success in real estate:

From a Sales Career: Your skills in lead generation, client relationship management, and negotiation will allow you to hit the ground running.
From a Teaching Career: Your ability to break down complex topics, educate clients, and manage expectations patiently is invaluable during a real estate transaction.
From Military Service: The discipline, integrity, and problem-solving skills honed in the military are highly respected and build immediate trust with clients.
From Another Industry: As a career changer, you bring a fresh perspective and a unique network of contacts that can become your first sphere of influence.

While a relevant background helps, success is ultimately forged through dedication, a strong work ethic, and a commitment to mastering the real estate business.

The Delaware Real Estate Market at a Glance

Distinct Market Characteristics

Delaware’s real estate market is unique and multifaceted, shaped by its strategic location and diverse geography:

Corporate Hub: New Castle County, particularly Wilmington, is a major center for corporate, banking, and legal professions, creating steady housing demand.
Coastal & Resort Appeal: Sussex County is home to popular beach destinations like Rehoboth, Bethany, and Fenwick Island, driving a strong market for second homes, vacation rentals, and retirement properties.
Suburban and Rural Mix: The state offers a blend of suburban communities with easy access to major Mid-Atlantic cities (Philadelphia, Baltimore, D.C.) and quieter, more affordable rural areas.
Tax-Friendly Environment: Delaware’s low property taxes and lack of sales tax make it an attractive location for residents and retirees.

Opportunities for New Agents

New agents can carve out a niche by focusing on specific segments, such as:

Assisting with corporate relocations in and around Wilmington.
Specializing in luxury coastal properties or investment vacation rentals.
Serving the growing retirement community in Kent and Sussex Counties.
Becoming an expert on first-time homebuyer programs in the state.
Focusing on land, farm, or equestrian properties in more rural areas.

Market conditions are fluid. Stay informed by analyzing local MLS data, following regional economic trends, and engaging with industry publications.

Delaware-Specific Legal Requirements

Disclosure

Delaware has specific laws regarding the Seller’s Disclosure of Real Property Condition Report. Agents must be proficient in these requirements to guide clients effectively and ensure compliance. Your pre-licensing course and broker training will cover this topic in depth.

Criminal History

The Delaware Real Estate Commission requires a state and federal background check and evaluates applications with criminal records on a case-by-case basis. It is imperative to provide a complete and honest disclosure of your history on your application.

Delaware’s laws and regulations are detailed. Comprehensive training and the ongoing guidance of your sponsoring broker are essential for proper and ethical practice.

Getting Started – Action Steps

Research & Enroll: Compare approved Delaware schools and enroll in the 99-hour pre-licensing course that best fits your schedule and budget.
Schedule Your Exam & Background Check: As you progress in your course, visit the websites for Pearson VUE (exam) and the State Bureau of Identification (background check) to schedule your appointments.
Network with Brokers: Begin researching local real estate brokerages. Interview with managing brokers to understand their company culture, training, and support systems to find the best launchpad for your career.

Continuing Education and License Renewal

Renewal Requirements

Delaware real estate licenses must be renewed every two years, by August 31st of every even-numbered year. To renew, licensees must complete 21 hours of continuing education, which must include specific core courses mandated by the Commission.

Refer to the Delaware Division of Professional Regulation website for the most current continuing education curriculum and a list of approved providers.

Professional Growth

To thrive in the market, pursue ongoing professional development in areas like real estate technology, contract law, negotiation strategies, and specialized market niches.

Official Resources and Support

Delaware Division of Professional Regulation: The official source for all licensing regulations, applications, and fee schedules. dpr.delaware.gov/boards/realestate/
Pearson VUE: The designated provider for scheduling and administering the state salesperson exam.
Delaware Association of REALTORS®: The state’s primary professional organization for real estate agents, offering resources, advocacy, and networking.

Disclaimers

Accuracy Notice: This guide is for informational purposes. All requirements, fees, and timelines are subject to change. Always confirm details with the official Delaware Division of Professional Regulation.
No Legal Advice: This content does not constitute legal or financial advice.
School Information: School offerings, pricing, and promotions are dynamic. Contact providers directly for the most current information.

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.