How to get a real estate license in New York
New York requires a 77-hour qualifying course with an in-person proctored final, a $15 state exam, and a sponsoring broker who authorizes your application.
Last checked October 2026. Official source: New York Department of State, Division of Licensing Services
- License
- Real estate salesperson
- Pre-licensing education
- 77 hours
- State exam
- Department of State written exam, multiple choice, based on the 77-hour curriculum. Scheduled through eAccessNY.
- Background check
- The application asks about criminal history and prior license actions. The DOS reviews each application.
- Broker
- A New York broker must sponsor you and authorize your application.
Featured New York real estate schools
The New York Department of State, Division of Licensing Services publishes the list of approved schools. Find approved schools
Run a New York real estate school? Feature your school here
Steps to get licensed in New York
- 1
Complete the 77-hour course
Take the qualifying course at a DOS-approved school and pass its proctored final.
- 2
Pass the state exam
Schedule through your eAccessNY account. The fee is $15 per attempt.
- 3
Find a sponsoring broker
Your broker authorizes your application online.
- 4
Apply through eAccessNY
Apply within two years of passing the exam. The application fee is $65.
Required courses
| Course | Hours |
|---|---|
| Salesperson qualifying course | 77 |
| Total | 77 |
Schools require 90% attendance, and the course final exam is taken in person.
State fees
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| State exam feePer attempt | $15 |
| Initial application fee | $65 |
Course tuition is set by each school and isn't included.
After you're licensed
- The license is valid for two years.
- Complete 22.5 hours of continuing education every two years to renew.
Licensed in another state?
New York has reciprocity with a limited number of states. Check the DOS for the current list.
New York real estate license FAQ
Who issues real estate licenses in New York?
The New York Department of State, Division of Licensing Services (DOS) issues the real estate salesperson license in New York. Its official website is dos.ny.gov/real-estate-agent.
How many hours of pre-licensing education does New York require?
New York requires 77 hours of approved pre-licensing education. Schools require 90% attendance, and the course final exam is taken in person.
What courses do I need to take for a New York real estate license?
The required coursework is Salesperson qualifying course (77 hours).
What is the New York real estate exam like?
Department of State written exam, multiple choice, based on the 77-hour curriculum. Scheduled through eAccessNY.
Is a background check required in New York?
The application asks about criminal history and prior license actions. The DOS reviews each application.
Do I need a sponsoring broker to get licensed in New York?
A New York broker must sponsor you and authorize your application.
How much does a New York real estate license cost?
State fees include state exam fee ($15) and initial application fee ($65). Course tuition is set by each school and is not included.
Can I transfer a real estate license from another state to New York?
New York has reciprocity with a limited number of states. Check the DOS for the current list.
What do I need to do after getting my New York real estate license?
The license is valid for two years. Complete 22.5 hours of continuing education every two years to renew.
Get course info for New York
Tell us how to reach you and we'll connect you with an approved New York real estate school.
Requirements and fees change. Confirm the current rules with the New York Department of State, Division of Licensing Services before you enroll or apply.