Confused By Real Estate License Reciprocity?
What is real estate license reciprocity and portability?
Reciprocity is an agreement between states that makes it possible for an agent to get licensing to operate in other states through a streamlined process.
In most cases, the agent is required to take the state portion of the reciprocal state’s exam before a license is issued. The federal portion of the exam is waived and the state portion (usually 40-45 questions) must be successfully passed with a satisfactory score of 70 or 75%.
To maintain licensing in a reciprocal state, you must continue to hold an active license in your home state. Should you terminate your license in your home state, your reciprocal license will terminate, and you must meet all the reciprocal states licensing requirements.
Reciprocity agreements are categorized into three types:
- Full reciprocity — These are states that allow agents to transfer their real estate license from any state.
- No reciprocity — States that do not allow reciprocity for out-of-state licenses.
- Partial reciprocity — Agents are required to undertake a little exam or education before licensing.
Real Estate License Portability refers to state laws that permit out-of-state brokers or agents to operate without getting a real estate agent license for a neighboring location. It is not a long-term solution and only allows the agent to undertake the real estate business across the border.
Portability laws have been categorized into:
- Cooperative — The out-of-state agent is allowed to enter another state and carry out the real estate business.
- Physical location —The broker or agent can conduct the business remotely in another state and not in person.
- Turf states — The out-of-state broker or agent is not allowed to conduct real estate business in the state.
FULL RECIPROCITY
- Your current real estate license must be active.
- Any expired license should be renewed before applying for reciprocity.
- Anyone with any disciplinary action must resolve the issue before submitting an application.
PARTIAL RECIPROCITY
Partial reciprocity means that certain states offer license reciprocity to states that have similar laws.
- Some states grant reciprocity to neighboring states.
- Some have their own requirements.
- Your existing real estate license should be active before you to apply for the reciprocal license.
States that grant partial reciprocity include: Rhode Island, Nebraska, Florida, Illinois, Nebraska, Iowa, Maryland, Nevada, Minnesota, Idaho, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio, Oregon, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Utah, New Mexico, West Virginia, New York, North Dakota, and Wisconsin.
NO RECIPROCITY
The states that do not offer license reciprocity include: Arizona, Vermont, California, Texas, Indiana, Wyoming, Hawaii, South Dakota, Montana, Michigan, New Jersey, and Kentucky. This means that agents must retake the required real estate courses.
Hardest States to get a Real Estate License
Of all states, Colorado and Texas come on top as the hardest in terms of granting a real estate license. Each of the states requires some education and a test, which you must pass before being issued with a real estate license. The hours required will vary from 20 hours to over 200 hours, though this depends on the state. The classes are available both online and in person.
Currently Illinois has reciprocity with the following states under the Real Estate License Act of 2000:
Indiana, Florida, Wisconsin, Colorado, Connecticut, Georgia, Iowa, Nebraska.
402 West Washington Street, Room W072, Indianapolis, IN 46204
317-234-3009
Indiana License Portability and Reciprocity
Portability: Cooperative
Reciprocity: None Indiana does not offer reciprocity, but you may still qualify if your original licensure state has similar requirements to Indiana. If you’re approved for reciprocity, you will receive authorization to sit for the State law portion of the Indiana licensing examination. If your application is not accepted by reciprocity, you will be required to apply by examination. For additional information, contact the Commission via email at [email protected] or by phone at 317.234.3022. For more information on obtaining an Indiana real estate license, visit the Indiana Real Estate Commission’s website
FLORIDA Department of Business and Professional Regulation
1940 N. Monroe St., Tallahassee, FL 32399-1027
850-487-1395
Florida License Portability and Reciprocity
Portability: Physical Location
Reciprocity: Partial
Reciprocity with Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Mississippi, Nebraska, and Rhode Island.
Qualifying Experience:
- You must be at least age 18 and hold a high school diploma or its equivalent.
- You cannot be a Florida resident at time of application.
- You must have obtained your real estate license by having met the education and examination requirements of the other state. Your real estate license must be valid, current, active, and in good standing. Your license must have been issued by the real estate licensing agency in the state from which you’re applying.
Salesperson:
- You must pass the Florida portion of the licensure exam for Salespersons.
- Complete your Post-Licensing education (45 hr. Post-Licensing for Sales Associates).
Note: This only applies if you have completed a Salesperson Pre-Licensing course and examination for a jurisdiction with the Commission and have held your license for at least 24 months.
Broker:
- Applicants must have at least one of the following:
- Held a current and valid real estate sales associate’s license for at least 24 months during the preceding 5 years in the employ of a governmental agency for a salary and performing the duties authorized in Chapter 475, F.S.
- Held a current and valid real estate broker’s license for at least 24 months during the preceding 5 years in any other state, territory, or jurisdiction of the United States, or in any foreign national jurisdiction
- The applicant must complete Florida’s 72-hr. Broker Pre-Licensing course.
- You must earn a passing score report for the Florida portion of the licensure exam filed with Florida DPBR.
For more information on obtaining a reciprocal real estate license in Florida, review the application for a Florida Sales Associate Reciprocal License, Florida Broker Reciprocal License, and visit the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation’s website.
1400 East Washington Avenue, P.O. Box 8935, Madison, WI 53708
608-266-5511 Wisconsin License Portability and Reciprocity
Portability: Physical Location
Reciprocity: Partial
Reciprocity agreements with Illinois and Indiana. Here are the steps to real estate license reciprocity by license type in Wisconsin: Salesperson:
- If you’ve held an active Sales License in another state other than Illinois or Indiana for at least two years within the last four years, you’re required to take the 13 hours of Sales education before taking the State exam.
- If you’re a Broker licensed in another state, you do not need to complete the full 72 hours of education.
- If you’re a licensee holding an active Managing Broker License in Illinois or Indiana, you are exempt from the education requirement and may take the Broker exam directly.
- If your Illinois or Indiana license is not active but was active within the past two years, you may apply to obtain a Broker License by endorsement.
- Complete the board-approved 6-hr. Pre-Licensing education program for Brokers and the board-approved 13-hr. Pre-Licensing education program for Salespersons.
- Pass the Wisconsin-specific Salesperson Exam and the Wisconsin-specific Broker Exam.
- Submit evidence satisfactory to the Real Estate Examining Board of Salesperson experience.
1560 Broadway, Suite 925, Denver, CO 80202
Colorado License Portability and Reciprocity
Portability: Cooperative
Reciprocity: Full – All states
Here are the steps to real estate license reciprocity in Colorado:
- You must hold a current license in another jurisdiction, and your license must have been held for two or more years (in active/inactive status).
- There are no education requirements if you’ve held your license for two or more years in active/inactive status.
- Pass the State portion of the Colorado Real Estate Broker’s Exam.
- Salesperson credential/Broker credential equivalencies will be based on your level of experience:
- Under two years active experience: Associate broker, FA credential
- Employing level additional requirements: 24-hr. Brokerage Administration course Employing Broker Affidavit form
- Two or more years of active experience: Independent level or Employing level
Occupational and Professional Licensing Division,165 Capitol Avenue, Room 110,Hartford, CT 06106
860-713-7230
Connecticut License Portability and Reciprocity
Portability: Cooperative
Reciprocity: Mutual
Mutual recognition agreements with Alabama, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Nebraska, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, and Rhode Island.
Here are the steps to real estate license reciprocity in Connecticut:
Reciprocal States:
- You must have an active real estate license in good standing in another state. Disciplinary proceedings or unresolved complaints pending against you will make you ineligible for reciprocity.
- You must have passed a written real estate licensing examination in the state in which you are actively licensed.
- Pay the associated fees for your application.
- You must successfully complete the state portion of the CT Real Estate Licensing Examination administered by PSI and pay the associated fees for your license.
229 Peachtree Street, NE, International Tower, Suite 1000
Atlanta, GA 30303-1605
404-656-3916
Georgia License Portability and Reciprocity
Portability: Cooperative
Reciprocity: Full – All states
Here are the steps to real estate license reciprocity in Georgia:
- You must have a current, active license in another state.
- You must have obtained your license by passing an examination in that state, and your license must currently be in good standing (i.e. not lapsed or expired).
- Complete the Real Estate Reciprocal Application. Read the instructions carefully and attach all required documents.
Portability: Physical Location
Reciprocity: Varies based on state and their education requirements
Reciprocity with Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Nebraska, and Wisconsin. Here are the steps to real estate license reciprocity in Illinois:
- You must have passed the real estate licensure examination in the state from which you’re applying.
- Take and pass the Illinois portion of the licensure examination.
- Your sponsor must have an active broker or managing broker license in Illinois. If you’re a managing broker, you can self-sponsor.
- For Managing Broker applicants only: Your Broker license must have been in an active status during the immediately preceding two years.
- If you don’t meet these qualifications, you must take the national licensing exam.
1918 SE Hulsizer Avenue, Ankeny, IA 50021-3941
515-281-3183
Iowa License Portability and Reciprocity
Portability: Physical Location
Reciprocity: Mutual
Reciprocal agreements with Arkansas, Georgia, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Mississippi, and North Dakota. Here are the steps to real estate license reciprocity in Iowa: Licensed in a Reciprocal State:
- You must have taken an examination in the other state.
- Submit your certificate of license history.
- Undergo a criminal history background check.
- You can apply to have the National portion of the examination waived, but you must take the Iowa portion of the examination.
1200 ‘N’ Street, Suite 402, P.O. Box 94667
Lincoln, NE 68059-4667
402-471-2004
Nebraska License Portability and Reciprocity
Portability: Turf State
Reciprocity: None
While Nebraska does not offer formal real estate license reciprocity, there are steps you can take to get a real estate license in the state:
- Under the Nebraska Real Estate License Act, if you hold a current real estate license in good standing in another real estate regulatory jurisdiction which is your jurisdiction of primary residence, you may be issued an equivalent real estate license in Nebraska either:
-
- while remaining a non-resident of Nebraska,
- upon moving to Nebraska directly from the jurisdiction in which your real estate license is held.
- Complete the 3-hour course approved by the Commission specific to the Nebraska Real Estate License Act.
- Submit proof or cause to have proof submitted of Errors and Omissions Insurance Coverage.
- Submit or cause to have submitted a “Certification of Licensure History” issued by your resident jurisdiction’s real estate regulatory body, indicating your license is current and in good standing.
- You must submit an application fee and a license fee.
RECIPROCITY IN ALL OTHER STATES
Portability: Cooperative
Reciprocity: Full – All states
Here are the steps to real estate license reciprocity in Alabama: Salesperson:
- Complete a 6-hr. course in Alabama real estate law.
- Take and pass the corresponding Alabama portion of the licensing examination.
- Submit an official “Certificate of Licensure” form (license history) with the application, showing you hold a current license in another state. This certification must have been issued within 120 days of receipt of the reciprocal license application.
- Successfully complete an approved 60-hr. Pre-License course
- Hold an active real estate Salesperson license in any state for at least 24 months of the 36 month period immediately preceding the date of application.
- Complete a 6-hr. course in Alabama real estate law
- Take and pass the corresponding Alabama portion of the licensing examination.
- Submit an official “Certificate of Licensure” form (license history) with the application, showing you hold a current license in another state. This certification must have been issued within 120 days of receipt of the reciprocal license.
Portability: Physical Location
Reciprocity: None Unfortunately, Alaska doesn’t offer any reciprocity with other states
For more information on obtaining an Alaska real estate license, visit the Alaska Real Estate Commission’s website.
Portability: Cooperative
Reciprocity: Full – All states
Here are the steps to gain licensure through Out-of-State License Recognition in Arizona:
- If you’re a Salesperson applicant currently licensed in another state and seeking licensure in Arizona, you must be an Arizona resident.
- You must have a current license in another state that you’ve held for at least one year.
- You must have completed the approved real estate education and passed the real estate license examination in the other state.
- You will be ineligible if you have had a license or certificate revoked or voluntarily surrendered in any other state or country. Additionally, you can’t have had any discipline imposed by another regulating entity, and you must be without any pending complaints, allegations, or investigations.
Portability: Physical Location
Reciprocity: Partial
Reciprocal agreements with Alabama, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Nebraska, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Washington, and West Virginia. Here are the steps to real estate license reciprocity in Arkansas:
- If you’re a Salesperson applicant currently licensed in another state and seeking licensure in Arkansas at the same level, you may request a waiver of the general portion of the examination. As a Salesperson applicant, if you meet all three of the following parameters, you may be required to take only the Arkansas Law Portion of the examination:
- Parameter one: You’ve passed a uniform, general, or multi-state part of an examination for a real estate license in another state in which the examination is determined by the Arkansas Real Estate Commission to meet generally acceptable standards of real estate testing.
- Parameter two: The other state requires a minimum passing grade no lower than that required for the general part of the Arkansas examination (70%).
- Parameter three: You’re licensed in the other state at the time of taking the Arkansas examination.
Portability: Physical Location
Reciprocity: None
California does not offer reciprocity with any states – you’ll need to qualify for the appropriate written exam and pass all other requirements, then voila! You’re practicing real estate in California. It’s worth noting that you don’t have to be a resident of the state to practice real estate there, so dust off your student cap and get ready to dive into California real estate. For more information on obtaining a reciprocal real estate license in California, review the application for a California Salesperson Reciprocal License and visit the California Department of Real Estate’s website.
Portability: Physical Location
Reciprocity: Full – All states
Here are the steps to real estate license reciprocity in Delaware:
- Submit one of the following documents to the Division of Professional Regulation:
- A copy of the certificate received when you completed the Delaware law portion of the Salesperson’s Pre-Licensing course, OR
- A copy of the certificate received when you completed another jurisdiction’s Pre-Licensing Salesperson’s course of at least 99 hours, OR
- A Certificate of Licensure History showing that you have been licensed continuously for the past three years and a completed, signed Sales or Lease Transaction Listing form(s) listing 20 sales or lease transactions that you completed during the past three years.
- You’re required to pass the state DE portion of the Salesperson exam with a minimum 70% passing score
Portability: Physical Location
Reciprocity: Full – All states
Here are the steps to real estate license reciprocity in the District of Columbia:
Salesperson:
- You must meet or exceed the District’s 60-hr. Pre-Licensing education requirements in the jurisdictions from which you’re applying.
- Complete a 3-hr. D.C. Real Estate Commission-approved Fair Housing course.
- You’re required to pass the state (D.C.) portion of the Salesperson exam with a minimum 75% passing score.
- You must submit the original letter of license certification from your licensing jurisdiction. The certification letter has to be dated within 90 days and contain the official seal. Pocket cards and license copies will not be accepted.
- Broker applicants must meet The District’s 135-hr. requirement plus submit two consecutive years of active sales experience immediately preceding the application.
- You must complete a 3-hr. D.C. Real Estate Commission-approved Fair Housing course.
- You need to earn a passing score (75%+) on the D.C. portion of the Broker exam.
- You must submit an application for a license to the Commission with the required fees within six months of passing the examination, including the original letter of license certification from your licensing jurisdiction.
Portability: Physical Location
Reciprocity: None
Hawaii does not have real estate license reciprocity. You’ll need to follow the typical steps to licensure. For more information on obtaining a Hawaii real estate license, visit the Hawaii Real Estate Branch’s website.
Portability: Physical Location
Reciprocity: None
While Idaho does not offer reciprocity with any other states, they do allow your experience to count for something. Here are the steps you can take to get a real estate license in the state:
- Idaho waives the National portion of the licensing exam, Pre-Licensing education, and broker experience requirements (as applicable) if you are licensed on active status in another state.
- You may obtain the same type of license in Idaho (Salesperson or Broker) as you hold in your primary state of licensure, unless your primary state is a “single licensure” state (i.e., everyone holds a Broker License).
- If you are licensed in a “single licensure” state, you must hold a Principal or Designated Broker license to qualify for an Idaho Broker License.
Reciprocity: None
Kansas is tricky. They don’t offer reciprocity or waive all requirements to transfer your license, but they will honor your experience.
With that in mind, here are the steps you can take to get a real estate license in the state: Salesperson:
- You must pass the Kansas portion of the licensure exam for Salespersons.
- If you hold a current Salesperson License in another jurisdiction, you do not have to complete Kansas’ 30-hr. Pre-Licensing course and the National portion of the examination.
- If you hold a current Broker License in another jurisdiction, you do not have to complete Kansas’ 24-hr. Broker Pre-Licensing course and the National portion of the exam.
- If you hold a current Broker License in another state, you must complete a 4-hr. “Kansas Law Course.”
- You must earn a passing score report for the Kansas portion of the licensure exam filed with KREC. Note: If you’re a commercial broker, you can cooperate with a Kansas broker without a Kansas license under a written agreement.
- Licensed as a Salesperson in Kansas, or as a Salesperson or Broker in another jurisdiction, AND
- Actively engaged in activities that require a license in Kansas for at least two years during the last five years.
Portability: Turf State
Reciprocity: Limited Reciprocity agreements with Florida, Ohio, Tennessee, and West Virginia.
Here are the steps to real estate license reciprocity in Kentucky if you currently hold an Ohio real estate license: Salesperson:
- You must have an active Ohio Salesperson License for at least one year immediately preceding the time of application.
- You must affiliate your Kentucky license with a Principal Broker who holds a Kentucky Broker License.
- You must complete a 40-hr. reciprocal license law course and submit fingerprints for a national criminal records check prior to scheduling the reciprocal license exam.
- Once licensed in Kentucky, you must adhere to all Kentucky licensing requirements, including completing 48 hours of Post-Licensing education courses within the first two years of obtaining your license.
- You must have an active Ohio Broker License for at least two years immediately preceding the time of application.
- If you wish to be a Principal Broker in Kentucky, you must have an escrow account at a bank located in Kentucky as well as a definite place of business located in Kentucky (“virtual” offices and P.O. Boxes are not acceptable).
- If you wish to be affiliated with a Principal Broker, you must affiliate with a Principal Broker who is licensed in Kentucky.
- You must complete a 40-hr. reciprocal license law course and submit fingerprints for a national criminal records check prior to scheduling the reciprocal license exam.
- Once licensed in Kentucky, you must adhere to all Kentucky licensing requirements, including completing annual Continuing Education.
- You must be actively licensed in Tennessee as an Associate Broker for a minimum of one year immediately preceding the submission of your reciprocal application.
- You must complete a 40-hr. reciprocal license law course and submit fingerprints for a national criminal records check prior to scheduling the reciprocal license exam.
- Once licensed in Kentucky, you must adhere to all Kentucky licensing requirements.
- You must be actively licensed in Tennessee as a Broker for a minimum of three years immediately preceding the submission of your reciprocal application.
- You must complete a 40-hr. reciprocal license law course and submit fingerprints for a national criminal records check prior to scheduling the reciprocal license exam.
- Once licensed in Kentucky, you must adhere to all Kentucky licensing requirements.
- You must have an active West Virginia Associate Broker License for at least one year immediately preceding the time of application.
- You must affiliate your Kentucky license with a Principal Broker who holds a Kentucky Broker License.
- You must complete a 40-hr. reciprocal license law course and submit fingerprints for a national criminal records check prior to scheduling the reciprocal license exam..
- Once licensed in Kentucky, you must adhere to all Kentucky licensing requirements, including completing annual Continuing Education.
- You must have an active West Virginia Principal or Designated Broker license for at least one year immediately preceding the time of application.
- If you wish to be a Principal Broker in Kentucky, you must have an escrow account at a bank located in Kentucky as well as a definite place of business located in Kentucky (“virtual” offices and P.O. Boxes are not acceptable). If you wish to be affiliated with a Principal Broker, you must affiliate with a Principal Broker who is licensed in Kentucky.
- You must complete a 40-hr. reciprocal license law course and submit fingerprints for a national criminal records check prior to scheduling the reciprocal license exam.
- Once licensed in Kentucky, you must adhere to all Kentucky licensing requirements, including completing annual Continuing Education.
Portability: Cooperative
Reciprocity: Partial Reciprocal license agreements with Alabama, Arkansas, Colorado, Georgia, Iowa, Mississippi, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Pennsylvania.
Here are the steps to real estate license reciprocity in Louisiana:
- You must provide proof of licensing by the reciprocal state.
- You can only obtain the same license type that you currently hold in your resident state.
Maine License Portability and Reciprocity
Portability: Physical Location
Reciprocity: None
Maine does not offer reciprocity, but you can use your skills and experience to get ahead in the licensing process through the following steps:
- You must demonstrate knowledge of Maine real estate law by passing the Maine Law examination.
- You must hold a similar active license in good standing in your resident state (Maine Associate Broker is equivalent to a Salesperson in other states).
- Provide a Certificate of Licensure from each state in which you now hold or have held a real estate license (less than 30 days old when received by Commission).
- Submit a fully completed license application including a Certificate of Licensure from each state as noted above.
- Submit the appropriate license fee.
For more information on obtaining a reciprocal real estate license in Maine, review the application for a Maine Reciprocal License and visit the Maine Real Estate Commission’s website.
Portability: Cooperative
Reciprocity: Partial Reciprocity agreements with Oklahoma and Pennsylvania.
Here are the steps to real estate license reciprocity in Maryland:
- You must have gained your first license in a state with a reciprocal agreement with the Maryland Real Estate Commission.
- If you’re licensed in Pennsylvania, you’re excused from the examination and Continuing Education requirements.
- If you’re licensed in Oklahoma, you must pass the Maryland portion of the examination, but you’re excused from Continuing Education requirements.
- You must submit a full and complete certified license history with your application.
- Your license must be current and active.
- If you’re a broker, you’ll need a Maryland license before any Associate Brokers or Salespersons may apply.
- If you’re an Associate Broker or Salesperson, you must submit a letter from your Sponsoring Broker with the application.
- The Broker’s principal place of business cannot be in Maryland.
- Your category of license in your state will be the category you apply for in Maryland.
- If your license expires or goes inactive in your state, the reciprocal license becomes void.
- Reciprocal licensure is not automatic; your application must be made and fee paid manually. The term of a reciprocal license is two years.
- If your principal place of business moves to Maryland and you haven’t previously taken an exam, you must do so.
Portability: Physical Location
Reciprocity: Partial Reciprocal license agreements with: Connecticut, Rhode Island, West Virginia, Nebraska, Iowa, Tennessee, Mississippi, Colorado, Georgia, Pennsylvania, New Mexico – along with Brokers licensed for two years from New York and Salesperson & Brokers licensed for two years from Oklahoma.
Here are the steps to real estate license reciprocity in Massachusetts:
- The Board may issue you a real estate Salesperson or Broker License if you’re licensed in other states or jurisdictions without requiring the satisfaction of the education and examination requirements where such other state or jurisdiction has laws similar to the Commonwealth governing the practice of real estate brokering and extends the same privilege to licensed Massachusetts real estate Brokers and Salespersons.
- All applicants are required to fill out an application online on the ePlace Portal, submit all necessary documentation and pay the fee.
- If you’re from New Hampshire or Maine (Broker only), you can apply for an educational waiver.
Reciprocity: None
Michigan has no reciprocity agreements and will require you to follow the typical steps for licensure in their state.
Portability: Physical Location For more information on obtaining a Michigan real estate license, visit the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs’ website.
Portability: Physical Location
Reciprocity: Partial Reciprocity agreements with Colorado, Iowa, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Oklahoma.
Here are the steps to real estate license reciprocity in Minnesota for nonresidents with an active license in Colorado, Iowa, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, or Oklahoma:
- Only a Minnesota-licensed primary broker can submit a Salesperson License application for you as a nonresident.
- The license fee is $130.
- Email a Letter of Certification (no more than 90 days old) documenting that you are currently licensed as a Salesperson in a reciprocal state.
- You must reside and hold an active real estate license in Wisconsin.
- Complete the 13-hr. Wisconsin to Minnesota Reciprocal Pre-Licensing course.
- Pass the State portion of the Salesperson exam.
- Only a Minnesota-licensed primary broker can submit a Salesperson License application for you as a nonresident.
- The license fee is $130.
- Email a Letter of Certification (no more than 90 days old) documenting that you are currently licensed as a Salesperson in Wisconsin.
- You must reside and hold an active license in a non-reciprocal state.
- Complete your Pre-Licensing education.
- Pass the State portion of your Salesperson exam.
- Only a Minnesota-licensed primary Broker can submit a Salesperson License application for you as a nonresident.
- The license fee is $130.
- Email a Letter of Certification (no more than 90 days old) documenting that you are currently licensed as a Salesperson in a non-reciprocal state.
Portability: Cooperative
Reciprocity: None
Mississippi does not offer formal reciprocity but may honor your experience based on the following conditions:
- If you hold an active license in another state, you may be able to use real estate education obtained from providers who are not actually approved by Mississippi if the state that has issued your real estate license has also approved both your real estate courses, and the education provider for Pre-Licensing credit and a current reciprocal agreement is in force between that state and the state of Mississippi.
- If you hold an equivalent real estate license from another state, you will not be required to sit for the examination provided a current (license-for-a-license) reciprocal agreement is in effect with the state where you’re currently licensed and on active status.
Portability: Turf State
Reciprocity: Full – All states
Real estate agents seeking reciprocity for a real estate license in Missouri must:
- Be 18 years old
- Provide evidence of being fingerprinted through the approved statewide vendor
If you are a current and active real estate licensee in another jurisdiction, you must:
- Pass the State portion of the Missouri licensing exam.
- Complete the 24-hour Missouri Real Estate Practice Course (MREP). MREP may be completed before or after your exam date.
- Submit a complete application that includes a current license history certification from the jurisdiction where you’ve been licensed within the last three months. Your application must be submitted within six months of the exam completion date.
- Pass both the State and National portion of the Missouri licensing exam (Pre-Licensing education is waived).
- Submit a completed application with a copy of your current Bar card within six months of completion of the exam.
If you hold a current and active Broker License in another jurisdiction, you must:
- Have active license experience as a real estate Salesperson or Broker for 24 of the last 30 months.
- Pass the State portion of the Missouri Broker exam and submit a complete license application within six months of your exam date.
- Within three months, a current license (history) certification must be issued from the real estate commission of the state/jurisdiction from which you’re currently licensed (a copy of the license is not acceptable).
- Have active Salesperson experience for 24 of the last 30 months.
- Earn a Certificate of Satisfactory Completion from a 48-hour Pre-Licensing Broker course from an accredited Missouri real estate school on or before the exam date.
- Pass both portions of the Missouri Broker examination and submit an application for a license within six months of the completion date of the 48-hour Pre-Licensing Broker course.
- Within three months a current license (history) certification must be issued from the real estate commission of the state/jurisdiction from which you’re currently licensed (a copy of the license is not acceptable).
- Hold an active Salesperson License and pass BOTH portions of the Missouri Broker exam.
- If you don’t hold currently a real estate license, you must:
- Pass BOTH portions of the Missouri Salesperson examination.
- Pass BOTH portions of the Missouri Broker examination. (Education requirements and license experience are waived.)
- Submit an application for a license within six months of passing the Missouri Broker exam. If both portions of the exam are not passed, the license application must be submitted within six months of the first passing Broker exam score. A copy of your current Bar card must be provided with the application for licensure.
Portability: Physical Location
Reciprocity: Full – All states
Reciprocity agreements are in effect with the following states or licensing jurisdictions: Alberta (Canada), Colorado, Georgia, Idaho, Iowa, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota,Tennessee, Utah, and Wyoming. Here are the steps to real estate license reciprocity in Montana:
- Your application may be submitted to determine if you have equivalent education and/or experience.
- You must be currently licensed in Montana and file an application for equivalency determination.
- If equivalency is approved by the Board, you must complete 60 hours of Pre-Licensing instruction from a school and instructor approved by the Board and pass the required examinations.
- Your application may be submitted to determine if you have a license in another state or jurisdiction with licensing standards substantially equivalent to Montana’s requirements. The Board may approve to waive all or part of the required Pre-Licensing education and/or examination.
Portability: Cooperative
Reciprocity: Partial
Here are the steps to license reciprocity in Nevada: Salesperson:
Nevada offers reciprocity for Sales Licenses from Arizona, Delaware, Illinois, Iowa, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Texas, Washington, Colorado, Idaho, Indiana, Kentucky, Minnesota, South Carolina, Utah, and West Virginia.
- Provide your certified license history.
- Take and pass the Nevada State Exam.
- Submit your fingerprints.
- You must take an 18-hr. Nevada-specific law course upon application.
Nevada offers reciprocity for Broker/Broker-Associate/Broker-Salesperson Licenses from California, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Florida, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Minnesota, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, Virginia, and Wyoming.
- If you hold a current real estate Broker, Broker-Associate, or a Broker-Salesperson License in the states listed above, you qualify for the reciprocal Nevada Salesperson License.
- You must take an 18-hr. Nevada-specific law course upon application.
Portability: Cooperative
Reciprocity: Partial Reciprocal Agreements with Massachusetts, Vermont, Maine, and Georgia.
Here are the steps to real estate license reciprocity in New Hampshire:
- You must obtain and submit a Certificate of Good Standing.
- You need to have completed at least six transactions in which you contributed to at least 50% of the brokerage involvement.
- You must complete the 60 hours of Broker Pre-Licensing education (unless applying by reciprocity).
- If you’re a commercial real estate agent, you’ll need to fill out this Out-of-State Cooperative Agreement Form.
Portability: Turf State
Reciprocity: Partial Reciprocity with Florida, New York, and Pennsylvania.
Here are the steps to real estate license reciprocity in New Jersey by state/license type: Florida Salesperson:
- Take 75 hours of Pre-Licensing education and follow the New Jersey procedures for licensure.
- Take 12 hours of Broker Pre-Licensing education in Florida at a school approved by the Florida Real Estate Commission.
- Complete a New Jersey Salesperson Waiver Application.
- Submit a current Certificate of Licensure/Licensed History from the Florida Real Estate Commission (an original document issued within the past 30 days).
- Attach a transcript certifying the successful completion of your 12-hr. Pre- Licensing Broker’s course.
- Take 75 hours of Pre-Licensing education.
- You must pass both the National and State portions of the exam simultaneously.
- If you’re actively engaged in the business on a full-time basis as a licensed Broker for the three years immediately preceding the date of your application, you are required to do the following:
- Complete the Broker Waiver Application.
- Submit a current Licensure History.
- Submit a money order or certified check for $25.00 (non-refundable processing fee). d. Provide proof of your legal presence in the United States.
- Submit a letter from your employing Broker (on company letterhead) certifying your full-time employment over the last three years.
- If your application is approved, you are required to take two 30-hr. courses in New Jersey – one course on Agency/Ethics and one on Office Management.
- Take 75 hours of Pre-Licensing education.
- Pass the licensing examination and follow all the steps for regular licensure.
- Take 15 hours of Broker Pre-Licensing education in Pennsylvania.
- Complete a New Jersey Salesperson Waiver Application.
- Submit a current Certificate of Licensure from the Pennsylvania Real Estate Commission.
- Attach a transcript certifying your successful completion of the 15-hour Broker course.
- Submit a money order or certified check for $25.00 (non-refundable processing fee).
New Mexico License Portability and Reciprocity
Portability: Turf State
Reciprocity: Full – All states
Reciprocity with Massachusetts, Louisiana, and Georgia. Here are the steps to real estate license reciprocity in New Mexico:
- You must pass the real estate Broker’s examination as prescribed by the NM Real Estate Commission.
- If you’re currently licensed as real estate Salesperson or Broker in other states or jurisdictions, you’re eligible to apply for a waiver of 60 of the 90 hours of Pre-Licensing education if you can provide a certified license history from your resident licensing jurisdiction documenting that you’ve completed “Real Estate Principals and Practice” and “Real Estate Law” or its equivalent. If you met these criteria, the waiver would exempt you from taking the National Broker Exam. You would still be required to take a 30-hr. “Broker Basics Course”, and take the State portion of the Broker examination.
- If you’re licensed in another state, you’ll need not less than four years’ experience as the equivalent of an Associate Broker during the 60-month period immediately preceding the filing of your application with verification in writing by your qualifying Broker(s) or the state’s applicable equivalent to a qualifying Broker. As a candidate for a qualifying Broker license from another state, you will, in all circumstances, be required to fulfill all the remaining requirements, including experience, education, and acknowledgment of responsibilities.
For more information on obtaining a reciprocal New Mexico real estate license, visit the New Mexico Real Estate Commission’s website.
Portability: Physical Location
Reciprocity: Partial Reciprocity agreements with Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Georgia, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.
Here are the steps to real estate license reciprocity in New York:
- You must submit:
- A completed application with application fee.
- A current certification (dated within six months) from the state agency where you are currently licensed, indicating current status as a real estate Broker in good standing.
Portability: Cooperative
Reciprocity: Partial (must be equivalent to North Carolina’s Provisional Broker License)
Here are the steps to real estate license reciprocity by license type in North Carolina:
Commercial Broker:
- You can be issued a Limited Nonresident Commercial Broker (LCB) License if:
- You do NOT live in North Carolina (NC), have an active real estate Broker or Salesperson License in another state,
- You want to enter NC to engage in a commercial transaction as an affiliated agent with your out-of-state brokerage company, AND
- You enter into a Declaration of Affiliation and a Brokerage Cooperation Agreement with a resident NC Broker who will be responsible for supervising you.
- This restricted license permits you to enter NC to engage only in “commercial real estate transactions.”
If you hold a current real estate license in another state (or U.S. territory or Canadian jurisdiction) that is equivalent to NC’s provisional Broker License and that has been on active status within the previous three years, you may EITHER
- Submit an application, including your criminal record report, certification(s) of licensure, and application fee,
- Pass the State portion of the license examination,
- Be issued a provisional Broker License (assuming requisite character requirements are met) and be subject to the Post-Licensing education requirement;
- Submit an application, including your criminal record report, certification(s) of licensure, and application fee, AND
- Be issued a provisional Broker License (assuming requisite character requirements are met) and be subject to the Post-Licensing education requirement.
If you hold a current real estate license in another state (or U.S. territory or Canadian jurisdiction) that is equivalent to NC’s “full” Broker License and that has been on active status within the previous three years, you may EITHER:
- Submit an application, including your criminal record report, certification(s) of licensure, and application fee,
- Pass the State portion of the license examination,
- Be issued a “full” Broker License (assuming requisite character requirements are met);
- Submit an application, including your criminal record report, certification(s) of licensure, and application fee,
- Be issued a provisional Broker License (assuming requisite character requirements are met), and
- Be subject to the Post-Licensing education requirement.
Portability: Cooperative
Reciprocity: Partial Reciprocity with Georgia, Iowa, and Minnesota.
Here are the steps to real estate license reciprocity in North Dakota:
- To receive a North Dakota Broker or Salesperson License, you must be a resident of and have an active Broker or Salesperson License in your state of residence.
- The licensing examination is waived under the reciprocal agreement.
Portability: Cooperative
Reciprocity: Partial Reciprocity with Arkansas, Connecticut, Kentucky, Mississippi, Nebraska, Oklahoma, West Virginia, and Wyoming.
Here are the steps to real estate license reciprocity by license type in Ohio:
Salesperson:
- Confirm that your state has entered into a limited reciprocity agreement with Ohio.
- You must be a legal resident of a state that has a reciprocal agreement with Ohio.
- You must be sponsored by a Broker licensed to do business in Ohio.
- Submit a letter of certification from the state in which you are currently licensed and a Consent to Service of Process form.
- Submit with your application proof of completion of 40 hours of Ohio real estate law Pre-Licensing education.
- Pass the OH portion of the examination with a minimum score of 70%.
- You must be a resident of a state that has a reciprocal agreement with Ohio.
- You need to hold an active Broker License in that state for two of the last five years.
- Take an Ohio Real Estate Law Course. This course must be taken at an institution of higher education.
- You must pass the State portion of the Ohio Real Estate Broker exam in order for your license to be issued with a minimum score of 75%.
- Submit your application, a Consent to Service of Process form, and a letter of good standing.
Oklahoma License Portability and Reciprocity
Portability: Physical Location
Reciprocity: None
Oklahoma does not offer formal real estate license reciprocity, so here are the steps you can take to get a real estate license in the state:
- If your licensing state or jurisdiction has not entered into an agreement with Oklahoma, the general rule is that if you, as an active licensee:
- possess a minimum of two years active experience out of the previous five years as a Sales Associate or Broker respectively,
- complete the three state-specific courses (Oklahoma Broker Relations, Oklahoma Code and Rules, Oklahoma Contract and Forms all for one hour each)
- take the State portion of the exam,
- provide a certificate of license history verifying such and indicating that your license is in good standing in your state or jurisdiction of licensure,
- complete all appropriate forms and pay all required fees, AND
- if your application receives final approval, then you may obtain a nonresident Oklahoma license.
- If you are licensed for one day actively out of the past two out of six years, then you would:
- complete the three state-specific courses (Oklahoma Broker Relations, Oklahoma Code and Rules, Oklahoma Contract and Forms all for one hour each),
- turn in your license history, AND
- take the National and State portions of the exam.
- No license shall be issued to any nonresident applicant at a higher level than the highest license of any current active license in your resident jurisdiction or another jurisdiction in which you’ve qualified for a license. All nonresidents shall be required to complete the appropriate examination as required by the Commission.
Co-Brokerage Arrangements:
Oklahoma allows that a Broker of this state may participate in a cooperative brokerage arrangement with a Broker of another jurisdiction provided that each Broker conducts real estate activities only in the state or jurisdiction in which they are licensed.
For more information on obtaining a reciprocal real estate license in Oklahoma, review the application for an Oklahoma Sales Associate Reciprocal License and visit the Oklahoma Real Estate Commission’s website.
Portability: Cooperative
Reciprocity: Partial Reciprocity with Alabama, Alberta, Georgia, Nebraska, and South Dakota. There are no waivers of education or license examinations available. The requirements for reciprocal licensing are specific. Contact the Agency for more information. For more information on obtaining a reciprocal Oregon real estate license, visit the Oregon Real Estate Agency’s website.
Portability: Turf State
Reciprocity: Mutual Reciprocity with Arkansas, Georgia, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, and New York.
Here are the steps to real estate license reciprocity in Pennsylvania:
- You may be granted licensure by the Reciprocal method if you hold a current, active Broker or Salesperson License issued by another state that:
-
- agrees to issue a license to a standard Pennsylvania licensee without further requirement,
- has qualifications for licensure which are substantially comparable to those required by the Commission.
- As a reciprocal licensee, you must maintain your principal place of business in the state through which reciprocity was granted and must maintain a current, active license in that state in order to maintain your reciprocal license in Pennsylvania.
Portability: Cooperative
Reciprocity: Partial Reciprocity with Connecticut or Massachusetts.
Here are the steps to real estate license reciprocity in Rhode Island:
- You must obtain and submit the following materials:
- An application
- A Letter of Good Standing from your home-state’s licensing authority
- A Criminal History Record (CHR) from the Rhode Island Department of the Attorney General
- A CHR/CORI from your home-state’s law enforcement agency
- A Certificate of Errors and Omissions Insurance
- A Lead Poisoning/Lead Hazard Mitigation Certificate of Completion for 3 hours
- An irrevocable Power of Attorney Form for service of process
Portability: Cooperative
Reciprocity: Full – All states
Here are the steps to real estate license reciprocity in South Carolina:
- Apply for and take the SC portion of the real estate examination.
- If you’re applying to become a Broker, you must meet the three years actively licensed sales experience requirement.
- Submit certification(s) of licensure from any jurisdiction(s) in which you have held licensure in the last five years.
- You must be licensed within six months prior to submitting your SC Application.
- If you’re a Salesperson exam applicant (SC resident for more than six months with a Sales License in another jurisdiction), you will have to take 30 hours.
- If you’re a Broker exam applicant (SC resident for more than six months with a Broker License in another jurisdiction), you will have to take 60 hours.
Portability: Cooperative
Reciprocity: None
Though South Dakota does not offer formal reciprocity with other states, there is an option to utilize your education and experience to earn a license there:
- If you hold an active license in another state, and you’ve successfully passed the real estate licensing examination in that same state, you may obtain a similar level of licensure in South Dakota if you successfully pass the State portion of the examination in South Dakota.
Portability: Cooperative
Reciprocity: None
Tennessee does not have reciprocity with any state, so you’ll need to get creative if you’re looking to practice real estate there. If you’re a real estate licensee from another state or jurisdiction, you cannot ‘‘cooperate’’ or ‘‘partner’’ with a Tennessee licensee in order to conduct business that requires a real estate license in this state without obtaining a license. In order to start your licensing process for the Tennessee Real Estate License, you will be required to submit a worksheet and a certified license history from ALL states you have ever been licensed for real estate (if you are licensed in another state). Non-Resident:
- You must pass the Tennessee (state law) portion of the examination for the same type of license you have in your resident state.
- Submit a Certified License History.
- Your exam requirements will be determined after a review of your documents.
- You may qualify to have your real estate education, the National portion of the exam, and/or your experience (if applying for a Broker License) substitute for Tennessee’s education, national portion of the examination, and/or experience under Tennessee statute.
- Submit a Certified License History.
- Your exam requirements will be determined after review of your documents.
Portability: Physical Location
Reciprocity: None
Texas does not offer real estate license reciprocity. To become licensed there, you must satisfy all current Texas licensing requirements – though it’s important to note that you may not have to take the National portion of the exam: You can be exempt from taking the National portion of the exam if you hold an active license in a state that participates in the national exam accreditation with ARELLO. Currently, the following states participate in ARELLO: Alabama, Delaware, Connecticut, Delaware, DC, Georgia, Idaho, Louisiana, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, New York, North Dakota, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Vermont, Washington, West Virginia, and Wyoming. For more information on obtaining a Texas real estate license, visit the Texas Real Estate Commission’s website.
Portability: Turf State
Reciprocity: Partial Reciprocity agreements with Georgia, Mississippi, and Alberta, Canada.
Here are the steps to real estate license reciprocity in Utah:
- If you are an applicant with an active real estate license in good standing from a state that has a reciprocity agreement with Utah, you should submit to the Division:
- Your completed and signed Real Estate Reciprocity Application
- Original and certified license history from the jurisdiction where you are actively licensed and which has a reciprocity agreement with Utah
- Original and certified license histories from all other jurisdictions where you have previously held a real estate license
- For principal and branch Brokers, a notarized letter on your company’s letterhead, signed by a company Officer, Manager/Member, or Owner, authorizing you as the Broker to use the company name
- Two fingerprint cards and a signed Fingerprint Waiver
- Your completed Certification of Legal Presence
Portability: Physical Location
Reciprocity: None
Vermont does not offer formal real estate license reciprocity with any other state, but your experience may warrant all or part of the examination requirement to be waived: The Vermont Real Estate Commission may waive all or a part of the examination requirement if you are a real estate Broker or Salesperson regulated under the laws of another jurisdiction, who is in good standing to practice in that jurisdiction and, in the opinion of the Commission, the jurisdiction’s examination is substantially equal to that required by this chapter. For more information on obtaining a Vermont real estate license, visit the Vermont Association of REALTORS®’ website.
Portability: Physical Location
Reciprocity: Full – All states
Here are the steps to real estate license reciprocity in Virginia:
- You shall have received the Salesperson or Broker License by virtue of having passed in the jurisdiction of licensure a written examination deemed to be substantially equivalent to the Virginia examination.
- Within 12 months prior to submitting a complete application for a license, you shall have passed a written examination covering Virginia real estate license law and regulations of the Real Estate Board.
- You must be in good standing as a licensed real estate Broker or Salesperson in every jurisdiction where licensed.
- You shall not have had a license as a real estate Broker or real estate Salesperson which was suspended, revoked, or surrendered in connection with a disciplinary action or which has been the subject of discipline in any jurisdiction prior to applying for licensure in Virginia.
- You must have met educational requirements that are substantially equivalent to those required in Virginia.
- At the time of application for a Broker License, you must have met educational requirements that are substantially equivalent to those required in Virginia, and you must have been actively engaged for 36 of the preceding 48 months.
- You shall have a good reputation for honesty, truthfulness, and fair dealing, and be competent to transact the business of a real estate Salesperson or Broker in such a manner as to safeguard the interests of the public.
- You must undergo and pass a fingerprint and background check.
Portability: Cooperative
Reciprocity: Full – All states
Here are the steps to real estate license reciprocity in Washington:
- The real estate education requirements will be waived if you’re a qualified applicant currently licensed in another state.
- If you’ve had an active license in another state in the previous six months, you’ll only need to take the Washington State part of the exam.
Portability: Physical Location
Reciprocity: Partial Reciprocity with Ohio.
Here are the steps to real estate license reciprocity in West Virginia:
- The commission may recognize a valid license issued by another jurisdiction as satisfactorily qualifying a nonresident person like yourself to obtain a comparable license in this state provided that you have qualified for the original license in your jurisdiction of residence by examination, and by complying with all the provisions for obtaining an original license in that jurisdiction, and the jurisdiction affords the same privilege to licensees of this state.
- You must file a bond in the penalty of $2,000.
- Take and pass the West Virginia portion of the licensing examination.
Portability: Cooperative
Reciprocity: Full – All states Here are the steps to real estate license reciprocity by license type in Wyoming: Salesperson:
You must submit fingerprints, complete and pass the Wyoming Law portion of the Salesperson I Course, complete and pass all of Salesperson II Course, and pass the State Exam for Salespersons before applying. Associate Broker / Responsible Broker:
You must submit fingerprints, complete and pass the Wyoming Law Portion of the Broker I Course, complete and pass all of Broker II Course, complete and pass the Broker Management Class (Responsible Broker Only) and pass the State Exam. For more information on obtaining a Wyoming real estate license, visit the Wyoming Real Estate Commission and Certified Appraiser Board’s website.