1. Meet Basic Eligibility Requirements
Before you begin the licensing process, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old (you may sit for the exam at 17, but the license cannot be activated until age 18).
- Have a high school diploma or GED (or equivalent).
- Be a lawful resident of the United States.
- Be of trustworthy character (background checks are required).
2. Complete Required Pre-Licensing Education
You must finish a 75-hour pre-licensing course through a provider approved by the Georgia Real Estate Commission (GREC).
- Courses are offered online andin personn.
- The course covers Georgia and national real estate principles, law, contracts, finance, agency, and related topics.
- You must pass the course’s internal final exam as required by the provider.
3. Pass a Criminal Background Check
After completing your education, you must submit fingerprints and undergo a criminal background check through an approved vendor.
4. Pass the Georgia Real Estate Licensing Exam
Once you finish your coursework and background check, you can schedule and take the Georgia real estate exam through the testing service.
- The exam includes national and state-specific questions.
- You must achieve the required passing score.
- After passing, you have 12 months to submit your license application.
5. Find a Sponsoring Broker
In Georgia, you must be affiliated with a licensed real estate broker before GREC will issue an active salesperson license.
- A sponsoring broker signs your application and supervises you when you begin practicing.
- If you apply without a broker, your license will be issued inactive until one is provided.
6. Submit Your License Application
Apply for your license through GREC or at the exam site.
Required items typically include:
- Proof of completion of the 75-hour course
- Passing exam score report
- Criminal history/background check
- Sponsoring Broker Statement
- Lawful presence verification
- Application fee
7. Complete Post-Licensing Education
Once licensed, Georgia requires a 25-hour post-license course during your first year to keep your license active.
Estimated Timeline
Most applicants complete the process in 3–6 months, depending on study pace and scheduling.
Estimated Costs
Typical costs include pre-licensing education, exam fees, background check fees, and application fees. The total commonly falls in the $500–$800+ range before optional expenses.
Optional Next Steps After Licensing
- Join a local REALTOR® association
- Obtain Errors & Omissions insurance
- Pursue additional certifications or designations
Regulatory Authority
Licensing and compliance are overseen by the Georgia Real Estate Commission & Appraisers Board.