If you are a military member, a veteran, or a spouse seeking to obtain a Florida real estate license, there are specific provisions and benefits designed to assist you. Here’s an overview of the key points:

1. Military Veterans and Spouses:

  • Fee Waivers: Florida waives the initial application, licensing, and unlicensed activity fees for military veterans and their spouses within 60 months of an honorable discharge. This benefit helps reduce the cost of starting a new career in real estate.

2. Active-Duty Military Members:

  • Licensing Reciprocity: Florida offers expedited licensing for active-duty military members and their spouses if they hold a real estate license in another state. This allows for a smoother transition when moving to Florida.
  • License Renewal Extensions: Active-duty military members who are stationed outside of Florida or overseas can request an extension for their license renewal. This extension is typically up to six months after discharge from active duty.

3. Pre-Licensing Education:

  • Education Requirements: All applicants, including military members and spouses, must complete a 63-hour pre-licensing course approved by the Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC).
  • Exam Requirements: After completing the pre-licensing course, applicants must pass the Florida real estate sales associate exam.

4. Application Process:

  • Complete Pre-Licensing Course: Enroll in and complete the required 63-hour pre-licensing course.
  • Submit Application: Apply for your real estate license through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). Include any necessary documentation to qualify for fee waivers or expedited processing.
  • Fingerprinting and Background Check: Submit your fingerprints for a background check. This is a standard requirement for all applicants.
  • Pass the State Exam: Schedule and pass the Florida real estate sales associate exam.

5. Continuing Education:

  • Post-Licensing Education: Complete the required 45-hour post-licensing course within the first renewal period.
  • Ongoing Continuing Education: Complete 14 hours of continuing education every two years to maintain your license.

Steps for Military Members and Spouses to Obtain a Florida Real Estate License:

  1. Verify Eligibility for Fee Waivers/Reciprocity: Check if you qualify for fee waivers or expedited processing based on your military status or being a spouse of an active-duty member.
  2. Complete Required Education: Enroll in and complete the 63-hour pre-licensing course.
  3. Apply for the License: Submit your application to the DBPR, including any supporting military-related documentation.
  4. Fingerprinting: Complete the fingerprinting process for a background check.
  5. Pass the Exam: Schedule and pass the state exam.
  6. Complete Post-Licensing Education: Fulfill the 45-hour post-licensing course requirement within the first renewal period.
  7. Maintain Continuing Education: Complete 14 hours of continuing education every two years.

Helpful Resources:

  • Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR): DBPR Real Estate Page
  • Military and Veteran Spouses: DBPR Military Services
  • Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC): Provides regulatory oversight and additional resources for real estate professionals in Florida.
  • Military OneSource: Offers support and information for military members transitioning to civilian careers.

By taking advantage of these benefits and following the outlined steps, military members, veterans, and their spouses can efficiently obtain and maintain a Florida real estate license.