How to get a real estate license in North Carolina
North Carolina requires 75 hours of pre-licensing education, a state exam given by Pearson VUE, and a background check to become a provisional broker.
Last checked October 2026. Official source: North Carolina Real Estate Commission
- License
- Provisional broker
- Pre-licensing education
- 75 hours
- State exam
- Pearson VUE. Expect a national section and a North Carolina law section.
- Background check
- Criminal background check. NCREC explains whether fingerprints are required and how to submit them.
- Broker
- New licensees work under a licensed broker.
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Steps to get licensed in North Carolina
- 1
Complete 75 hours of approved education
Take the pre-licensing course from a school approved by NCREC.
- 2
Pass the state exam
Schedule with Pearson VUE once you're eligible. Expect a national section and a North Carolina law section.
- 3
Complete the background check
Complete the criminal background check NCREC requires. Most states use fingerprints.
- 4
Affiliate with a broker
Choose a licensed North Carolina broker to work under. The broker is usually part of your application or license activation.
- 5
Apply for your license
Submit your application and fees to the North Carolina Real Estate Commission.
Required courses
| Course | Hours |
|---|---|
| Pre-licensing course | 75 |
| Total | 75 |
State fees
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Estimated state feesExam, application, and background check combined. Confirm current amounts with NCREC. | About $223 |
Course tuition is set by each school and isn't included.
After you're licensed
- Check NCREC for North Carolina's current post-licensing, continuing education, and renewal requirements.
Licensed in another state?
North Carolina doesn't offer broad reciprocity, so most agents licensed elsewhere complete North Carolina's requirements. Check NCREC for exceptions.
North Carolina real estate license FAQ
Who issues real estate licenses in North Carolina?
The North Carolina Real Estate Commission (NCREC) issues the provisional broker license in North Carolina. Its official website is www.ncrec.gov.
How many hours of pre-licensing education does North Carolina require?
North Carolina requires 75 hours of approved pre-licensing education.
What courses do I need to take for a North Carolina real estate license?
The required coursework is Pre-licensing course (75 hours).
What is the North Carolina real estate exam like?
Pearson VUE. Expect a national section and a North Carolina law section.
Is a background check required in North Carolina?
Criminal background check. NCREC explains whether fingerprints are required and how to submit them.
Do I need a sponsoring broker to get licensed in North Carolina?
New licensees work under a licensed broker.
How much does a North Carolina real estate license cost?
State fees include estimated state fees (About $223). Course tuition is set by each school and is not included.
Can I transfer a real estate license from another state to North Carolina?
North Carolina doesn't offer broad reciprocity, so most agents licensed elsewhere complete North Carolina's requirements. Check NCREC for exceptions.
What do I need to do after getting my North Carolina real estate license?
Check NCREC for North Carolina's current post-licensing, continuing education, and renewal requirements.
Get course info for North Carolina
Tell us how to reach you and we'll connect you with an approved North Carolina real estate school.
Requirements and fees change. Confirm the current rules with the North Carolina Real Estate Commission before you enroll or apply.