How to Get Your Real Estate License in Alabama: A Step-by-Step Guide
At P.A.S.S. Real Estate School, we believe in preparing all students for success—and that starts with knowing exactly what’s required to launch your career in real estate. If you’re ready to become a licensed real estate salesperson in Alabama, here’s a simple breakdown of the steps to help guide your journey:
Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements
Before starting the process, make sure you qualify:
Be at least 19 years old
Be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident alien, or legally present in the U.S.
Have a high school diploma or equivalent
Be trustworthy and competent to protect the public interest
Step 2: Complete a 60-Hour Pre-License Course
You’ll need to take an approved 60-hour pre-license course—like the one we offer at P.A.S.S. Real Estate School. This course covers everything from license law to property ownership and contracts. You must complete the course within one year.
Step 3: Pass the Course Final Exam
After finishing the 60-hour course, you must pass a school final exam with at least a 75%. This is required before you can move on to the state exam.
Step 4: Submit Fingerprints and Complete a Background Check
The Alabama Real Estate Commission (AREC) requires a state and federal background check. You’ll be fingerprinted through Fieldprint. It’s important to coordinate your application and fingerprint appointment on the same day to keep everything on track.
Step 5: Schedule and Pass the State Exam
You’ll register for the state licensing exam through Pearson VUE. The exam includes both national and Alabama-specific content. You’ll have six months from the date you finish your pre-license course to pass the exam. You must score at least 70 to pass.
Step 6: Apply for Your Temporary License
After passing your exam, you’ll apply for a temporary license. This license must be activated within 90 days, and it lasts for one year.
Step 7: Complete the 30-Hour Post-License Course
Within the first 6 months of receiving your temporary license (and definitely within the first 12), you must complete a 30-hour post-license course to qualify for your permanent license. You’ll also need to have your license upgraded from temporary to active or inactive.
Step 8: Stay Current with Continuing Education
To keep your license active, you’ll need to complete 15 hours of continuing education every two years, including a 3-hour Risk Management course.
If you're ready to begin, P.A.S.S. Real Estate School is here to walk with you every step of the way. You’ve got this—and we’ve got you!
For questions or to enroll, visit passrealestateschool.com.
