General Real Estate

How do I become a real estate agent in New Jersey?

By Bob Millaway July 26, 2026

Short Answer

To become a real estate agent in New Jersey, you must be at least 18 years old, complete 75 hours of pre-licensing education from an approved school, pass the New Jersey real estate salesperson exam, find a sponsoring broker, and submit your license application to the New Jersey Real Estate Commission. The process typically takes 3 to 6 months. You must also complete continuing education courses to renew your license every two years.

Becoming a real estate agent in New Jersey involves several steps. First, you must complete 75 hours of approved pre-licensing education. You can take these courses in person or online from an approved school. The courses cover real estate principles, practices, law, and ethics specific to New Jersey. After completing the coursework, you must pass the New Jersey real estate salesperson exam, which is administered by the state. The exam covers both national and state-specific content. Once you pass the exam, you must find a licensed real estate broker to sponsor you. You cannot work independently as a salesperson. You must be associated with a brokerage. After finding a sponsoring broker, submit your license application to the New Jersey Real Estate Commission along with the required fee. Your license must be renewed every two years, and you must complete continuing education courses during each renewal period. The cost of becoming an agent varies but typically ranges from $500 to $1,500 including courses, exam fees, and licensing fees. Many brokerages offer training and support for new agents.

Bob Millaway

Bob's Advice

Redfin Senior Agent · AI Certified Agent

Becoming a real estate agent is a rewarding career, but it takes hard work and dedication. I have been in this business for over 20 years, and I can tell you that the best agents are those who never stop learning. If you are considering becoming an agent, I recommend finding a brokerage that offers good training and mentorship. The first few years are the hardest, but if you are committed to serving your clients well, it can be an incredibly fulfilling career. I am always happy to talk to aspiring agents about the profession.

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