How to Get Your New Jersey Real Estate License in 5 Steps

In order to get your New Jersey real estate license, there are five steps you must take to satisfy the requirements of the New Jersey Real Estate Commission (NJREC). Then, you will be able to work with residential or commercial clients and build a successful real estate career. To be eligible for the licensing process, you must be at least 18, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and meet NJREC’s standards for honesty, trustworthiness, character, and integrity.

Follow these five steps to obtain a New Jersey real estate license and start building your business.

1. Complete Pre-License Education

All aspiring agents in New Jersey must take a 75-hour real estate education course from a provider approved by NJREC, such as License Classroom. The course will teach you about the basic principles of real estate, including license law, contracts, appraisals, fair housing, financing, commission rules, and more. You must pass the final course exam with a score of at least 75% to move forward.

Complete your course from the comfort of your home with our 75-hour pre-license package. It includes interactive elements and an exam prep course to properly prepare you for the license exam and a successful career in real estate. We also partner with PSI to offer the required proctoring for the final course exam at just $25.

2. Pass the New Jersey Real Estate Salesperson License Exam

Register to take the license exam through PSI within one year of finishing the pre-license course. You will have four hours to complete 110 questions, divided into a national and state portion, and must pass by at least 70%. Each exam attempt is $38, and you’re allowed an unlimited number of retakes until you pass. Our Exam Prep course, included with the pre-license package, is designed to help you pass on the first attempt!

You will have up to one year after completing your education course to pass the license exam and submit a completed application. It’s important to schedule the exam with enough time to complete the necessary fingerprinting and submit your application.

3. Pass a Fingerprint-Based Background Check

NJREC requires all prospective agents to pass a fingerprint-based background check before applying for their license. You can schedule this through IdentoGO for a processing fee of $66.05. It’s best to do this right after passing the license exam to ensure you make the 1-year deadline.

You’ll need the following evidence of completion of the fingerprinting process before you apply:

1. a completed Universal Form (IDG_NJAPP_051719_V1)
2. a payment receipt issued by IDEMIA when you complete the fingerprinting

4. Find a Sponsoring Broker

You’ll need a sponsoring broker to submit your application to NJREC. Your sponsor is a valuable resource and guide in the industry, helping you grow your real estate business. It’s common for brokerages to compete for new agents, so expect to be contacted for informal interviews and meetups. You are interviewing them as much as they are you, so ask a lot of questions to find the best fit for you.

5. Apply with NJREC

The New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance is the agency responsible for issuing real estate licenses. Your sponsoring broker will submit your completed application on your behalf. Be sure to give them your Applicant ID number from the license exam scorecard you receive after passing the exam.

The following are also required with your application:

• PSI state exam passing score report, completed and signed by your broker
• Employment date indicated by your employing broker
• Completed fingerprinting Universal Form and receipt (mentioned above)
• $160 application fee 

Once approved, you’ll receive your New Jersey real estate license and can begin practicing real estate and building your business. Complete continuing education every two years to maintain an active license and advance your career. Your successful journey in real estate is just a few steps away!