In Florida, to become a licensed real estate broker, you need to meet certain requirements, even if you’re currently working as a sales associate. Here are the general steps and requirements to transition from a sales associate to a broker in Florida:

  1. Education: You must complete 72 hours of approved pre-licensing education from a Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC) approved school. This education should cover topics relevant to real estate brokerage, including real estate law, principles, practices, and real estate math.
  2. Experience: As a sales associate, you must have at least 24 months of active real estate experience within the 5 years preceding the application date. This experience should be documented and verifiable through your employing broker.
  3. Application: Submit an application for the broker license to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). You can do this online through the DBPR website.
  4. Exam: Pass the Florida Real Estate Broker Examination. This exam tests your knowledge of real estate principles and laws specific to Florida. You must pass with a score of at least 75%.
  5. Fingerprinting and Background Check: You will need to complete a fingerprinting process and undergo a background check as part of the licensing process. This is to ensure that you meet the character and fitness requirements to hold a real estate license in Florida.
  6. Brokerage Affiliation: You must be affiliated with a licensed Florida real estate brokerage. Your broker license will be issued under this brokerage, and you will operate as a broker associate or managing broker within that brokerage.
  7. Fees: Pay the required application and licensing fees. These fees can vary, so check the current fee schedule on the DBPR website.
  8. Continuing Education: Once licensed as a broker, you will need to fulfill continuing education requirements to maintain your license. This includes completing 60 hours of post-licensing education within your first renewal cycle and then completing 14 hours of continuing education every 2 years thereafter.

It’s important to note that these requirements are subject to change, so it’s always a good idea to check the latest information and guidelines from the Florida Real Estate Commission and the Department of Business and Professional Regulation before proceeding with your application. Additionally, consider consulting with a real estate professional or attorney familiar with Florida real estate law to ensure you meet all the necessary requirements for obtaining a broker license.