Embarking on a career in real estate can be an exciting and rewarding journey, but before you can start helping clients buy, sell, and lease properties, you need to obtain your Maryland real estate license.
The process in Maryland is straightforward, but it requires some essential steps, including education, application procedures, and passing the licensing exam. Additionally, Maryland offers reciprocity agreements with other states, making it easier for out-of-state agents to get their real estate license in MD.
MLS Campus‘ comprehensive guide will explain how to get a Maryland real estate license, covering all the essential details, including education requirements, the fingerprinting process, and the specifics of Maryland’s reciprocity agreements with other states. Keep reading to find out more!
Why Choose to Become a Real Estate Agent in Maryland?
Before diving into the process, let’s explore why becoming a real estate agent in Maryland is an attractive career choice.
What can a career in real estate offer you?
- Flexible Hours: You will have the opportunity to set your schedule and work independently.
- Unlimited Income Potential: Real estate is a commission-based industry, so your earnings reflect your work ethic and commitment. With hard work and dedication, you can unlock unlimited earning potential!
- Satisfaction: Helping clients find their dream homes or investment properties is fulfilling. With time, you can become a successful real estate agent in Maryland and a trusted adviser in your local community.
Maryland’s thriving housing market is a great place to start a real estate career. But you must get your Maryland real estate license before diving in.
5 Steps to Get Your Maryland Real Estate License
Getting a Maryland real estate license is a simple process. You must first meet the basic eligibility requirements before working through the steps to getting your license.
First, You Must Meet the Basic Eligibility Requirements.
Before starting the licensing process, you must meet the basic eligibility requirements to become a licensed real estate agent in Maryland. The Maryland Real Estate Commission (MREC) requires all applicants to:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Pass a background check and be of good moral character.
Once you confirm that you meet these prerequisites, you can begin working toward earning your Maryland real estate license in 5 simple steps.
- Step 1: Complete the Required Pre-Licensing Education
- Step 2: Find a Sponsoring Broker
- Step 3: Submit Your Initial Maryland Real Estate License Application
- Step 4: Get Fingerprinted and Undergo a Background Check
- Step 5: Pass the Maryland Real Estate License Exam
Step 1: Complete the Required Pre-Licensing Education
The first formal step to getting your real estate license in Maryland is completing the required pre-licensing education. The state mandates that aspiring real estate agents complete a 60-hour real estate pre-licensing course from a Maryland Real Estate Commission-approved provider, such as MLS Campus.
This course covers essential topics that every real estate professional must know, including:
- Real estate law and regulations specific to Maryland.
- Contracts and negotiations, including how to handle sales agreements, buyer-seller contracts, and the legal responsibilities involved in a transaction.
Property ownership and rights. - Financing, including understanding clients’ mortgages, loans, and financial responsibilities.
- Ethics and professional responsibility, which includes how to maintain ethical practices and follow industry standards.
Your pre-licensing course can be taken online with MLS Campus. Studying your pre-license course online means you can benefit from self-paced learning. Many students prefer online education due to its flexibility. However, whether you take the course in person or online, it must be from an MREC-approved provider to qualify for your Maryland real estate license.
You must pass your final course exam with a score of 70% or more to receive your certificate. You will need your course certificate to move to the next step of the MD real estate licensing process.
Step 2: Find a Sponsoring Broker
You must also have a sponsoring broker when you apply for your license. A sponsoring broker is a licensed broker in Maryland who agrees to supervise you as you begin your real estate career. Without a broker’s sponsorship, you can’t obtain a Maryland real estate license.
**For help and advice on how to secure a sponsoring broker, please get in touch with our support team.**
Step 3: Submit Your Initial Maryland Real Estate License Application
After completing your pre-licensing education, you must submit your initial license application to the Maryland Real Estate Commission (MREC). This step is necessary to obtain the Exam Authorization Form, which you will need to schedule your licensing exam.
Application forms and additional details are on the MREC Initial License Applications page, along with their fees. The initial cost for a real estate salesperson license in Maryland is $98.
Step 4: Get Fingerprinted and Undergo a Background Check
In Maryland, all applicants for a real estate license must undergo a fingerprinting and background check. The Maryland Real Estate Commission requires this to ensure that all licensed agents maintain high ethical standards and can be trusted to work in real estate.
Here’s what to expect from the fingerprinting process:
Where to Get Fingerprinted: You can get fingerprinted at an MREC-approved location or a local law enforcement agency. Be sure to choose a facility that can electronically submit your fingerprints to the state of Maryland.
Cost: The fingerprinting process generally costs between $50 and $70, including running the background check.
Timing: Once your fingerprints are submitted, the background check can take several days to weeks to process. You should plan accordingly and submit your fingerprints as soon as possible to avoid delays.
Fingerprint Processing: Fingerprints are handled by the Maryland State Police and the FBI, with the results being sent directly to the Maryland Real Estate Commission.
Background Check Review: The Maryland Real Estate Commission evaluates the background check results as part of the licensure application review.
Step 5: Pass the Maryland Real Estate License Exam
Once you’ve completed the required 60 hours of pre-licensing education and received your certificate and your exam authorization form, the next step in getting a real estate license in Maryland is passing the state licensing exam.
Here’s what you need to know about the state licensing exam:
The Exam Format: The exam consists of two sections—a national portion and a Maryland-specific portion. The national portion covers general real estate principles, while the state portion focuses on Maryland’s unique laws and regulations.
Exam Questions: The national portion includes 80 questions, and the state-specific section contains 30 questions. You need to score at least 70% on both portions to pass.
Exam Fee: You’ll need to pay an exam fee when you schedule your test, which is typically around $44. The exam fee is paid directly to the PSI.
Preparing for the Exam: Taking practice exams and reviewing your course materials thoroughly before attempting the test is helpful. At MLS Campus, we offer free practice exams with your pre-licensing course. We also provide a state exam prep course for additional study, which can significantly improve your chances of passing on the first try.
Exam Location: You can find a PSI testing center near you by visiting the PSI test webpage.
Receive Your Maryland Real Estate License
After your application has been processed and approved by the Maryland Real Estate Commission, you’ll officially be issued your Maryland real estate license. Once you have your license in hand, you can start working as a real estate agent under your sponsoring broker. Congratulations!
Reciprocity Agreements: Practicing Real Estate in Other States
One of the key benefits of obtaining a Maryland real estate license is that Maryland has reciprocity agreements with several other states. These agreements allow licensed real estate agents in Maryland to practice in other states without retaking their pre-licensing education or passing another licensing exam.
Maryland has reciprocity agreements with the following states:
- Pennsylvania
- Oklahoma
Here’s how real estate license reciprocity works:
If you’re licensed in a reciprocal state, you don’t need to complete the 60-hour pre-licensing course again. You will not need to pass the real estate licensing exam.
You must complete state-specific requirements, such as application submission and license history. You also must hold a valid active license in your home state.
Follow the link for more information on the MD real estate license reciprocity agreements.
Reciprocity agreements are incredibly beneficial for real estate professionals who work near state borders or are looking to expand their business across multiple states. With a Maryland real estate license, you’ll be able to grow your real estate career in neighboring states with minimal additional effort.
Out-of-State License Recognition
If you are not licensed in one of the states that hold reciprocity with Maryland, you must apply for out-of-state license recognition. You must have an active license in your home state to submit your application.
Individuals licensed in other states can begin the application process by submitting a certificate of their entire licensing history from the state where they were first licensed. The Maryland Real Estate Commission will then evaluate the applicant’s education and experience for potential transferability on a case-by-case basis. Waivers may be granted, but only to those with active licenses.
Follow the link to find out more about Maryland’s out-of-state license recognition.
How to Become a Real Estate Agent in MD: Important Tips
Now that you understand the formal process for obtaining your Maryland real estate license, here are a few practical tips to help you succeed:
- Choose the Right Real Estate School
The quality of your pre-licensing education matters. Be sure to choose an MREC-approved real estate school with a good reputation. Whether you opt for online or in-person courses, make sure the program fits your learning style and schedule. MLS Campus has over 15 years of experience providing thousands of students with state-approved pre-licensing courses. - Find a Reputable Sponsoring Broker
Your sponsoring broker will be your mentor and guide during your first years in the real estate industry. Look for a broker with a strong reputation, ample experience, and a supportive environment that will help you succeed as you start your career. - Prepare Thoroughly for the Licensing Exam
Passing the Maryland Real Estate Salesperson Examination is critical. Take the time to study, review your course materials, and take practice exams. Being well-prepared will boost your confidence and increase your chances of passing on your first attempt. MLS Campus offers additional exam prep courses to help prepare you for your state licensing exam.
Obtaining a Maryland real estate license opens the door to a rewarding career filled with opportunities for growth and financial success. By following the steps outlined in this guide—completing your pre-licensing education, passing the licensing exam, submitting your application, and meeting ongoing education requirements—you’ll be well on your way to becoming a successful real estate agent in Maryland.
Your Frequently Asked Questions
We have compiled a list of your most frequently asked questions on getting a Maryland real estate license. If you have any questions that you cannot find the answer to, please get in touch with our friendly support team. We are happy to help explain the licensing process in more depth.
How long does it take to get a real estate license in Maryland?
The time required to obtain a real estate license in Maryland can vary depending on several factors, including the speed at which you complete your pre-licensing education and the scheduling of your exams. The process can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months.
Firstly, you must complete the required pre-licensing course, which consists of 60 hours of coursework. The duration of this phase depends on your schedule and the course format—whether it’s full-time, part-time, or online. Completing the coursework can take a few weeks to a couple of months.
After completing your pre-licensing education, you must submit your license application to the Maryland Real Estate Commission. Processing times for the application can vary, but it typically takes a few weeks for your license application to be approved. You will also need to pass the course and state licensing exams. Scheduling these exams can impact the overall timeline.
In summary, while the actual education and examination phases can be completed relatively quickly, the entire process of obtaining a real estate license in Maryland can take several weeks to a few months, depending on your pace and the efficiency of the exam and application processing.
How much does it cost to get a real estate license in Maryland?
The costs of obtaining a real estate license in Maryland include several components. Depending on the provider, the pre-licensing course typically costs between $161 and $679. In addition, there is a $25 fee for proctoring the course exam, a $44 fee for the state exam, and a $98 license application fee. Based on the course provider, you can expect to spend between $328 and $846 to complete the licensing process.
- Pre License Course Costs: $161 – $679 *varies depending on the provider
- Proctoring Cost for Course Exam: $25
- State Exam Fee (PSI): $44
- License Application Fee: $98
- Fingerprinting Fee: $50 – $70
- Total: $328 – $846
*We are offering 40% off our Pre-Licensing Course, which is currently priced at $161.99
How much do Realtors make in Maryland?
According to data from ZipRecuiter, as of September 7, 2024, the average annual salary for a real estate agent in Maryland is $90,887, translating to approximately $7,573 each month. These figures make Maryland one of the more lucrative states for real estate agents, ranking 4th in the nation in terms of average salaries in this field.
Salaries for real estate agents in Maryland vary significantly, ranging from as low as $27,660 to as high as $145,096. Most agents earn between $58,200 and $97,100, with the top 10% of earners making up to $124,714 annually. This wide pay range suggests substantial opportunities for agents to increase earnings through experience, skill development, and working in more profitable locations.
How many people pass the Maryland real estate exam?
Roughly 30% of students must retake the state licensing exam in Maryland to pass. Your success in passing your real estate exam lies in the dedication and preparation you put into your studies. MLS Campus provides free practice exams with your pre-license course that you can take as many times as you need to prepare for your exam. If you need additional resources, we also offer exam prep and math cram courses in Maryland to help you prepare for your state licensing exam.
Can I take the Maryland real estate exam online?
The Maryland real estate exam must be completed at an authorized PSI testing facility. These facilities are available in:
- Baltimore
- College Park
- Crofton
- Hagerstown
- Lanham
- Salisbury
How many times can you take the Maryland real estate exam?
If you don’t pass initially, you can retake the Maryland real estate exam as often as needed within the one-year eligibility period. Each attempt requires a $44 exam fee, and you only need to retake the section you didn’t pass.
What happens if you fail the Maryland real estate exam?
If you don’t pass the exam, you can retake it as often as necessary. However, you must pay the exam fee for each attempt and wait at least 24 hours before scheduling your next exam. You might want to consider enrolling in our Maryland exam prep and math cram courses to increase your chances of passing. Proper preparation for your exam will help you pass your license exam on the first attempt.
Enroll Now with MLS Campus
Becoming a real estate agent isn’t just about passing exams and obtaining a license. It’s about building relationships, staying informed about market trends, and continuously honing your skills.
Remember, you are not alone when you take your pre-licensing course with MLS Campus. We have experienced instructors to assist you with every step of the licensing process. If you have more questions, get in touch with our friendly support team today!
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If you decide you’re not 100% satisfied within the First 30 Days of your initial purchase, simply contact us by email and request a cancellation and full refund. You will receive a full refund of your purchase price. If the final exam has been taken, a refund can not be issued. The Real Estate Exam Prep Master and the Exam Prep Math, if purchased separately are not refundable.
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