How to Obtain a Real Estate License in New York

Co-authored by Steven Kral.

The regulating agency for real estate licenses in New York is the New York State Board of Real Estate, http://www.dos.state.ny.us/lcns/borepower.htm. This agency approves real estate courses, examines real estate law, is a point of contact for complaints, and advises the NY Secretary of State on real estate matters.

New York offers two levels of licensure: the salesperson's license and the broker's license. The salesperson's license is the entry level license. This is a person who arranges the sale and purchase of property, obtains list of properties for sale from the broker, and assists customers in locating and purchasing property. A salesperson may not work independently and may only work under the guidance and supervision of the broker. A broker is a person who is responsible for the supervision and conduct of the real estate brokerage business. He or she applies for and holds the license on behalf of the brokerage and supervises the salespersons who work as his or her agent.

Applicants at must be at least 18 years of age. To obtain the salesperson's license, a person must complete a state-approved of at least 45 hours, submit an application, and be sponsored by a New York licensed broker. Once granted, the license is valid for two years. For the license to remain active, the salesperson must successfully complete a 22 1/2-hour post-licensing course prior to license expiration.

New York has reciprocity agreements with Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Georgia, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. Applicants with a currently valid real estate license from these states can be licensed in New York. All licenses must be dated with six months and the prospective salesperson must still be sponsored by a broker in New York. More information can be found at /www.dos.state.ny.us/lcns/recipro.html.

Applicants are advised to browse the website at http://www.dos.state.ny.us/lcns/salespers.htm for a full, detailed list of licensing requirements. This website also provides PDF downloadable forms, has licensing FAQ's, and allows for electronic submission and payment of applications.