Do You Need Real Estate Certification in New York?

Whether you’re drawn to the fast-paced world of New York City or the growing markets of Buffalo or Albany, becoming a real estate agent can be a rewarding career move. But before you start selling homes, you’ll need a real estate license. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about earning your New York real estate license.

What are the Basic Requirements?

To qualify for a New York real estate license, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Have a high school diploma or equivalent
• Be a U.S. citizen or lawfully admitted alien

How do I Obtain a New York Real Estate License?

The process involves four key steps:

1. Complete the required courses.

Before taking the licensing exam, you must complete 77 hours of pre-licensing education through an approved course provider.¹ Courses are available online or in person. You may be able to skip² this requirement if you have a real estate degree or coursework from an accredited institution. 

2. Find a sponsoring broker.

New York requires all real estate salespeople to work under a licensed New York real estate broker, who will supervise your work and provide the necessary mentorship. Your sponsoring broker must log on to their New York Department of State account³ and authorize your application before you apply.

3. Pass the New York real estate salesperson exam.

Once you’ve successfully completed your pre-licensing education, you must pass the state real estate salesperson exam. Here’s how to register and obtain your results:

• Create an account on the New York Department of State Occupational Licensing Management System eAccessNY portal.⁴
• Schedule your exam at an approved testing center.⁵ 
• Bring a government-issued photo ID on exam day.
• Exam results will be available online⁶ within a few days of completing your test. 

4. Apply for your New York real estate license.

Once you pass the exam, you can apply for your salesperson license online through your eAccessNY account.⁷ 

You’ll need:

• A New York real estate salesperson application form.⁸ 
• A copy of your course certification.
• Your sponsoring broker’s signature and license number.
• Payment for the licensing fee.
  

If approved, your New York real estate license will be mailed to your business address.

If approved, your New York real estate license will be mailed to your business address.

What Happens After I Receive my New York Real Estate License?

Congratulations! You’re ready to launch your real estate career in one of the most dynamic markets in the country. To keep your license active, New York requires 22.5 hours of continuing education every two years. And to stay on top of all your industry requirements, check out this helpful resource.⁹ You’ve got this! 

1. https://dos.ny.gov/real-estate-course-providers/ ↩︎
2. https://dos.ny.gov/real-estate-salesperson-frequently-asked-questions ↩︎
3. https://appext20.dos.ny.gov/nydos/nydosmainMenu.do ↩︎
4. https://appext20.dos.ny.gov/nydos/registration.do?from=loginPage ↩︎
5. https://dos.ny.gov/real-estate-salesperson-exam-sites ↩︎
6. https://appext20.dos.ny.gov/nydos/nydosmainMenu.do ↩︎
7. https://appext20.dos.ny.gov/nydos/nydosmainMenu.do ↩︎
8. https://dos.ny.gov/system/files/documents/2023/02/dos-0022-f-a-real-estate-salesperson-application_02.2023.pdf ↩︎
9. https://dos.ny.gov/real-estate-salesperson-frequently-asked-questions ↩︎