In short
To get a real estate license, complete your state's required pre-licensing course, pass the state exam and a background check, then work under a licensed broker. Hours and fees vary by state. Real estate sales agents earned a median of $52,830 in May 2025, per BLS, but income swings widely because most pay is commission.
| Median pay | $52,830 a year, about $25.40 an hour (May 2025) |
|---|---|
| Typical way in | High school or GED, plus moderate-term on-the-job training |
| Jobs in the U.S. | About 427,000 (2025) |
| Outlook, 2025 to 2035 | Projected growth of 1.7% |
| Openings each year | About 32,600 on average, including replacements |
| Licensing | Required in every state; requirements set by each state commission |
| How pay works | Mostly commission, split with the sponsoring broker |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections 2025 to 2035 and May 2025 wages, BLS. National figures; pay where you live can be higher or lower, and starting pay is lower than the median.
The steps
Check your state's rules
Find your state's license requirements with the CareerOneStop license finder.
Take the pre-licensing course
Many are online.
Pass the state exam
National and state sections in many states.
Join a brokerage
You must work under a broker.
Before you jump
Budget for fees, association dues and several months without a closing. Many new agents keep a part-time job at first.
Questions people ask
How long does it take to get a real estate license?
Often a few weeks to a few months, depending on state hours and exam dates.
How much do new agents make?
It varies enormously; many earn little in the first year.
Can I do real estate part time?
Yes, many start that way, though clients expect responsiveness.