How to get a real estate license in Rhode Island
Rhode Island requires 45 hours of pre-licensing education, a state exam given by Pearson VUE, and a background check to become a salesperson.
Last checked October 2026. Official source: Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation
- License
- Salesperson
- Pre-licensing education
- 45 hours
- State exam
- Pearson VUE. Expect a national section and a Rhode Island law section.
- Background check
- Criminal background check. DBR explains whether fingerprints are required and how to submit them.
- Broker
- New licensees work under a licensed broker.
Featured Rhode Island real estate schools
The Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation publishes the list of approved schools. Find approved schools
Run a Rhode Island real estate school? Feature your school here
Steps to get licensed in Rhode Island
- 1
Complete 45 hours of approved education
Take the pre-licensing course from a school approved by DBR.
- 2
Pass the state exam
Schedule with Pearson VUE once you're eligible. Expect a national section and a Rhode Island law section.
- 3
Complete the background check
Complete the criminal background check DBR requires. Most states use fingerprints.
- 4
Affiliate with a broker
Choose a licensed Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation.
Required courses
| Course | Hours |
|---|---|
| Pre-licensing course | 45 |
| Total | 45 |
State fees
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Estimated state feesExam, application, and background check combined. Confirm current amounts with DBR. | About $335 |
Course tuition is set by each school and isn't included.
After you're licensed
- Check DBR for Rhode Island's current post-licensing, continuing education, and renewal requirements.
Licensed in another state?
Rhode Island offers reciprocity or license recognition for some out-of-state licensees. Check DBR for which states qualify and what you still need to complete.
Rhode Island real estate license FAQ
Who issues real estate licenses in Rhode Island?
The Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation (DBR) issues the salesperson license in Rhode Island. Its official website is dbr.ri.gov.
How many hours of pre-licensing education does Rhode Island require?
Rhode Island requires 45 hours of approved pre-licensing education.
What courses do I need to take for a Rhode Island real estate license?
The required coursework is Pre-licensing course (45 hours).
What is the Rhode Island real estate exam like?
Pearson VUE. Expect a national section and a Rhode Island law section.
Is a background check required in Rhode Island?
Criminal background check. DBR explains whether fingerprints are required and how to submit them.
Do I need a sponsoring broker to get licensed in Rhode Island?
New licensees work under a licensed broker.
How much does a Rhode Island real estate license cost?
State fees include estimated state fees (About $335). Course tuition is set by each school and is not included.
Can I transfer a real estate license from another state to Rhode Island?
Rhode Island offers reciprocity or license recognition for some out-of-state licensees. Check DBR for which states qualify and what you still need to complete.
What do I need to do after getting my Rhode Island real estate license?
Check DBR for Rhode Island's current post-licensing, continuing education, and renewal requirements.
Get course info for Rhode Island
Tell us how to reach you and we'll connect you with an approved Rhode Island real estate school.
Requirements and fees change. Confirm the current rules with the Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation before you enroll or apply.