What types of real estate licenses does New York offer?

New York offers Salesperson, Associate Broker, and Broker licenses. The Salesperson license requires a minimum age of 18. The Associate Broker license requires a minimum age of 18 and 24 months of experience. The Broker license requires a minimum age of 20 and 24 months of experience.

How often do you need to renew your New York real estate license?

New York real estate licenses must be renewed every 2 years. Renewal requires 22 hours of continuing education.

Does New York offer real estate license reciprocity?

New York has reciprocity agreements with 9 states: Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Georgia, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. If you hold a license in one of these states, you may be exempt from some pre-licensing education requirements. You will still need to pass the New York-specific exam.

Do I need a sponsoring broker before taking the New York real estate exam?

No. You can take the exam without a sponsoring broker. But you cannot operate as a licensed salesperson without working under a New York-licensed broker. Most candidates secure their broker during pre-licensing or shortly after passing.

How long until I get my New York real estate license after passing the exam?

The DOS typically issues licenses within 2-4 weeks after a complete application is on file. The application requires: - Passing exam score (delivered automatically) - Completed application via the DOS portal - $55 license fee - Sponsoring broker designation - Fingerprint-based background check Pro tip: complete your background check early. The fingerprinting often takes longer than the application processing, and getting it submitted early shaves weeks off your wait.

How to Get Your New York Real Estate License

Total Cost to Get Licensed in New York

Pre-licensing education (77 hrs)	$350-$700
Exam fee	$15
License application fee	$55
Background check	$50
Total estimate	$470-$820

Most candidates are licensed within 5-10 weeks of passing the exam.

Your Path to New York Real Estate

Follow the progression from entry-level to advanced licensure.

Salesperson

Associate Broker

Broker

Salesperson License

Who is this for?

This license is ideal for individuals new to real estate who want to start their career helping clients buy and sell property To obtain a Salesperson license, you must be sponsored by a licensed broker or brokerage firm.

Requirements

Age18+

ExperienceEntry-Level

SponsorshipRequired

Your Exam

Questions75

Time1h 30m

Format75 State

Passing Score Progress70%

You need roughly 53 out of 75 questions correct to pass.

Renewal: Every 2 years • 22 CE hours required

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To upgrade: 2 years experience

Associate Broker License

Who is this for?

This license is ideal for experienced agents ready to take on more responsibility while working under a supervising broker To obtain a Associate Broker license, you must be sponsored by a licensed broker or brokerage firm.

Requirements

Age18+

Experience2 years

SponsorshipRequired

Your Exam

Questions84

Time2h 30m

Format84 State

Passing Score Progress70%

You need roughly 59 out of 84 questions correct to pass.

Renewal: Every 2 years • 22 CE hours required

↓

To upgrade: reach age 20, no sponsorship needed

Broker License

Who is this for?

This license is ideal for experienced professionals who want to operate independently or run their own brokerage

Requirements

Age20+

Experience2 years

SponsorshipNot needed

Your Exam

Questions84

Time2h 30m

Format84 State

Passing Score Progress70%

You need roughly 59 out of 84 questions correct to pass.

Renewal: Every 2 years • 22 CE hours required

New York Real Estate License Reciprocity

New York has partial reciprocity agreements with select states. Agents licensed in a recognized state may qualify to skip some pre-licensing education, but must still pass the New York-specific state exam.

States accepted by New York (9 states)

Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Georgia, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, West Virginia

States that recognize New York licenses

Alabama, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Georgia, Indiana, Kansas, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Missouri, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia

Reciprocity rules change. Verify current requirements with each state's real estate commission before applying.

New York Licensing FAQ

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