What is required to become a real estate agent?

To become a real estate agent, obtaining licensure is a mandatory requirement. Each state has specific laws regulating the practice of real estate, which typically include completing a set amount of pre-licensing education, passing a comprehensive exam, and then applying for a license from the state’s real estate regulatory agency. This process ensures that agents are knowledgeable about real estate practices, local laws, and ethical standards, which is essential for protecting both consumers and the integrity of the industry.

While experience in sales can be beneficial for a real estate career, it is not a formal requirement to obtain a real estate license. Similarly, certification and a bachelor's degree might enhance one's qualifications or marketability but are not universally required for licensure. Therefore, focusing on obtaining a real estate license is the most critical step in entering the profession.