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New York Real Estate License Requirements

Getting your New York real estate license requires completing 77 hours of state-approved education, passing the official exam, and securing a sponsoring broker. The entire process can range from six to ten weeks, depending on your schedule and how quickly you complete the steps. This guide provides everything you need to know to become a licensed real estate agent in New York.

Quick New York License Facts

Requirement

Details

Education Hours

77 hours (One primary course)

Estimated Timeline

6-10 weeks, varies by study schedule

Age Requirement

18+ years old

Background Check

Not Required at State Level

Exam Format

Computer-based, multiple-choice

Official Body

NYS Department of State, Division of Licensing Services

Disclaimer: Always verify current requirements with the New York State Department of State (DOS) at dos.ny.gov.

How to Get Your New York Real Estate License in 4 Steps

Step 1: Complete 77 Hours of Pre-License Education

New York requires aspiring agents to complete a 77-hour pre-licensing course from a DOS-approved school.

  • Required Course: 77-Hour Salesperson Qualifying Course
  • Study Schedule Considerations: The time to complete your education depends on your available study hours per week and learning pace. Some students complete courses in a few weeks with intensive study, while others prefer a more gradual approach over several months.

Step 2: Pass the New York Real Estate Exam

After successfully completing your coursework, you must pass the New York State Real Estate Salesperson Exam. You must schedule your exam through your eAccessNY account.

  • Format: Computer-based test
  • Passing Score: You must achieve a score of 70% or higher to pass.
  • Exam Topics Include:
  • License Law and Regulations
  • Law of Agency
  • Real Estate Instruments and Contracts
  • Real Estate Finance
  • Land Use Regulations
  • Valuation and Construction
  • Human Rights and Fair Housing

Always check with the NYS DOS for the most current exam details, fees, and scheduling information.

Step 3: Find a Sponsoring Broker

In New York, a real estate salesperson must be sponsored by a licensed New York State real estate broker. Your broker will guide you as you begin your career.

  • Broker Role: Your broker provides essential training, mentorship, and oversight for all transactions.
  • Finding a Broker: Research local brokerages to find one that aligns with your career goals, offers a supportive environment, and has a fair commission structure. You must have a sponsoring broker before you can apply for your license.

Step 4: Submit Your License Application

Once you have passed the exam and have a sponsoring broker, you can apply for your license online through your eAccessNY account.

  • Application: Complete the online application and have your sponsoring broker authorize it.
  • Fees: Pay all required application and licensing fees.
  • Disclosure: While a background check is not required, you must disclose any past criminal convictions. The DOS reviews these on a case-by-case basis.

New York Real Estate License Costs

The total cost to get your license in New York can vary, but here is a general breakdown of initial expenses. 

Expense Category

Estimated Cost Range

Notes

Pre-License Education

$200 – $450

Varies significantly by school and package (online vs. in-person).

State Exam Fee

~$15

Set by the NYS DOS.

License Application Fee

~$65

For a two-year license.

Total Estimated Cost

$280 – $530

Does not include optional materials or post-license costs.

Note: These are estimates. Always check the official NYS DOS website for the most current fee schedules.

Ongoing Costs to Consider:

  • License Renewal: Your license must be renewed every two years.
  • Continuing Education: Required for every renewal cycle.
  • MLS Fees: Varies by local board/association.
  • Errors & Omissions (E&O) Insurance: Often required by your broker.
  • Professional Association Dues: Fees for joining local, state, and national Realtor® associations.
New York Real Estate License Cost Breakdown

Estimated Initial Licensing Costs in New York

A visual breakdown of typical startup expenses for a New York license.

Disclaimer: These figures are estimates for 2025 and can vary significantly based on the school chosen and optional materials purchased. The application and exam fees are set by the state. Always check official sources for the most current fees.

New York 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:

  • Real Estate Express (Colibri)
  • Benefits: Features a “Pass or Don’t Pay” guarantee and offers affordable packages.
  • Website: colibrirealestate.com
  • The CE Shop
  • Benefits: Offers a 40% military discount and has high reported pass rates.
  • Website: theceshop.com
  • Kaplan
  • Benefits: Is a GI Bill approved provider and offers live online classes.
  • Website: kapre.com
  • New York Real Estate Institute
  • Benefits: NYC-focused with in-person options and job placement assistance.
  • Website: nyrei.com

School Selection Tips:

  • Compare current pricing and package options.
  • Read recent student reviews and success rates.
  • Ensure the school is approved by the NYS DOS.
  • Contact schools directly for current pricing, promotions, and specific features.

New York Real Estate Exam Preparation

Study Strategies for Success

  • Set a consistent study schedule based on your availability.
  • Focus on understanding concepts, not just memorization.
  • Take practice exams to identify weak areas.
  • Review New York-specific laws, especially agency and fair housing.
  • Allow adequate time for exam preparation after completing courses.

Key Areas to Master

  • Real estate math and calculations.
  • Agency relationships (fiduciary duties).
  • New York disclosure requirements.
  • Contract law and purchase agreements.
  • Fair housing regulations.

Success Timeline by Professional Background

Different professional backgrounds may influence your licensing timeline and approach:

  • Sales Professionals: Potential advantages: Strong communication skills, understanding of commission-based income, experience with client relationships.
  • Teachers and Educators: Potential advantages: Strong study habits, excellent presentation skills, patience with detailed processes.
  • Military and Veterans: Potential advantages: Discipline, reliability, understanding of relocation, potential access to education benefits.
  • Career Changers: Considerations: May need more time for industry concepts, but transferable skills and a fresh perspective are valuable.

Individual results vary regardless of background. Success depends on dedication, study habits, and commitment to learning.

New York Real Estate Market Context

Market Characteristics

New York’s real estate market is one of the most diverse in the world:

  • A global hub in New York City with unique property types (co-ops, condos, townhouses).
  • Vast and varied markets in Upstate New York, from rural farms to city centers like Buffalo and Albany.
  • Luxury and vacation markets in areas like the Hamptons and the Hudson Valley.

Opportunities for New Agents

Potential specialization areas include:

  • First-time home buyers
  • Rental market (especially in NYC)
  • Luxury properties
  • Investment and multi-family properties

Market conditions change regularly. Stay informed through local MLS data, market reports, and industry publications.

New York-Specific Legal Requirements

  • Disclosure: New York has specific requirements for property condition disclosures that agents must understand and facilitate.
  • Criminal History: The NYS DOS reviews applications with criminal convictions on a case-by-case basis. Full and honest disclosure on your application is essential.

Disclosure requirements and other state laws are complex. Proper training and broker guidance are essential.

Getting Started – Action Steps

  1. Research & Enroll: Research DOS-approved schools and enroll in the 77-hour course.
  2. Network Early: Start researching brokerages and connecting with agents in your target market.
  3. Schedule Your Exam: As you near course completion, create your eAccessNY account and schedule your state exam.

Continuing Education and License Renewal

  • Renewal Requirements: New York real estate licenses must be renewed every two years. This requires completing 22.5 hours of approved continuing education, including specific topics on fair housing and agency law.
  • Professional Development: Consider ongoing education in market specializations, technology, and legal updates to stay competitive.

Official Resources and Support

  • New York Department of State (DOS), Division of Licensing Services: The official source for all licensing rules, applications, and fee schedules (dos.ny.gov/real-estate-salesperson).
  • New York State Association of REALTORS® (NYSAR): 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 New York State Department of State.
  • 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 test questions and a personalized plan based on your background and goals, use my AI Real Estate Career Planner tool.