How to Become a Real Estate Broker in Florida (2025 Guide)

Becoming a real estate broker in Florida comes with a distinct advantage over being a real estate agent. As a broker, you can hire real estate agents to work for you and own your own real estate firm!

And you can become a Florida real estate broker in six simple steps:

1. Start with your Florida real estate license
2. Gain some experience
3. Complete your broker course
4. Apply for your broker license
5. Pass your broker exam
6. Activate your license and keep up with your continuing education courses

6 Steps to Getting your Florida Broker License

1. Get Your Florida real estate license as a salesperson

All Florida real estate brokers must begin as licensed real estate agents. Being a licensed real estate agent is the best way to learn the business before you start supervising others. If you already have a real estate license from another state, you may be able to apply for your Florida real estate license under a mutual recognition agreement. Otherwise, you’ll need to complete the following steps to get your Florida real estate license:

1. Meet the DBPR’s basic requirements: be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and have a social security number.
2. Complete your pre-licensing education. This 63-hour course will teach you the basics of real estate.
3. Apply for your real estate license. In Florida, you must apply for your license before you will be permitted to sit the Florida real estate exam.
4. Pass your exam.
5. Have your supervising broker activate your Florida real estate license.

With that, you’ll be a licensed Florida real estate agent, and you’ll be well on your way to becoming a Florida real estate broker.

Quick Overview

Upgrading from agent to broker in Florida opens the door to greater independence, leadership, and income. As a broker, you can manage other agents, start your own firm, and operate without supervision. If you're already a licensed real estate sales associate, becoming a broker could be your next big move.

Who’s Eligible to Become a Real Estate Broker in Florida?

To qualify for a broker license in Florida, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old

• Hold a high school diploma or equivalent

• Have held an active real estate sales associate license for at least 24 months within the last five years

If you're licensed in another state, your experience might still count. Check the Florida DBPR broker requirements for the most up-to-date eligibility details.

What Are the Steps to Get a Broker License in Florida?

1. Confirm Your Sales Experience

You’ll need 24 months of active real estate experience as a licensed sales associate during the past 5 years. That experience can come from Florida or another state with equivalent licensing.

2. Complete the 72-Hour Broker Pre-Licensing Course

Florida requires all aspiring brokers to complete a 72-hour course approved by FREC. This course covers topics like:

• Real estate law and licensing

• Office and agent management

• Investment and property analysis

You can find providers through the approved real estate course list.

3. Apply for Your Broker License

Submit your application through the DBPR’s online licensing portal. You’ll need to:

• Pay the $91.75 application fee

• Submit electronic fingerprints

Fingerprinting must be done through a vendor authorized by the DBPR. See fingerprinting instructions here.

4. Pass the Broker License Exam

Schedule your exam through Pearson VUE. The Florida broker exam includes:

• 100 multiple-choice questions

• A 3.5-hour time limit

• A passing score of 75%

Use study guides and practice exams to prepare—most students find them helpful for success.

5. Activate Your Broker License

After you pass the exam, submit a license activation request to the DBPR. Once processed, you’re officially a Florida real estate broker.

6. Complete Post-Licensing Education

Florida requires all newly licensed brokers to complete 60 hours of post-licensing education during their first renewal cycle. More details are available in the broker education breakdown.

What Are the Requirements for a Florida Broker License?

Here’s a summary of everything you’ll need:

• Age 18 or older

• High school diploma or GED

• 24 months of active real estate experience in the last 5 years

• Completion of a 72-hour broker pre-licensing course

• Fingerprinting and background check

• Application fee ($91.75)

• Passing score (75%) on the broker exam

• Completion of 60 hours of post-licensing education during the first renewal period

How Much Does It Cost to Become a Broker in Florida?

Most candidates spend between $350 and $600, depending on their course provider and prep tools. Here's a typical cost breakdown:

• Broker pre-licensing course: $250–$350

• Application fee: $91.75

• Fingerprinting: Around $50

• Post-licensing course: Around $150

Optional costs may include exam prep tools or retake fees.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Florida Broker License?

The total time can vary, but most people complete the process in 2 to 6 months. Here’s a sample timeline:

• 72-hour course: 1–2 months (depending on schedule)

• Fingerprinting and application: 2–3 weeks

• Exam prep and testing: 2–4 weeks

• License activation: ~1 week after passing exam

Want to move quickly? Choose a self-paced online course and schedule your exam as soon as you're eligible.

What’s the Difference Between an Agent and a Broker in Florida?

Sales Associate (Agent):

• Must work under a licensed broker
• Cannot supervise other agents
• Requires a 63-hour pre-licensing course and 45 hours of post-licensing education
• Typically earns commissions based on broker agreement

Real Estate Broker:

• Can operate independently or run their own brokerage
• Can hire and manage other agents
• Requires a 72-hour pre-licensing course and 60 hours of post-licensing education
• Has greater earning potential and control over operations

What’s Next If You’re Ready to Become a Florida Broker?

Becoming a broker is a smart move if you’re looking to expand your career, increase your income, or start your own firm. With a license in hand, you can lead teams, build your brand, and control your own real estate destiny.

Next step?
Explore DBPR’s official resources and compare approved broker education providers to find the right fit for your goals and learning style.

You’ve got the experience—now make it official.