Real Estate Licensing in Alachua city, Florida

Who Needs a License

Under Florida law, a real estate broker or salesperson must be licensed to engage in the business of selling, buying, exchanging, leasing, or offering any of these services for others in exchange for compensation.[^1] This includes residential and commercial property transactions. Anyone representing another person in a real estate transaction for a fee must hold an active license.

How to Get Licensed

Florida real estate licensing is administered by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). Here is the step-by-step process:

1. Complete Pre-Licensing Education: Enroll in and pass a DBPR-approved 63-hour broker course or 40-hour salesperson course from an authorized school.

2. Pass the State Exam: After coursework, take the Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC) exam. Salespersons must pass the state portion and Florida-specific portions; brokers must pass additional broker-level exams.

3. Submit Your Application: Apply directly to DBPR with proof of education completion, exam passage, and background clearance. Salespersons must identify a sponsoring broker before licensure.

4. Meet Experience Requirements: Brokers must have been actively engaged as a licensed salesperson or broker for at least 24 months in the preceding 5 years.[^1]

5. Receive Your License: Upon approval, your license is issued by the state—not by local authorities.

For current procedures, exam schedules, and approved schools, visit the DBPR website.

Local Requirements

Alachua city is located in Alachua County, Florida. While real estate licensing is a state function, local code may govern property transaction disclosures, real estate sign placement, or local trust account rules.

Consult the Alachua Municipal Code for any local amendments or additional municipal requirements affecting real estate practice within city limits. Contact the Alachua city Building Department or city clerk's office for local code interpretation.

Exemptions

Florida law exempts certain persons and activities from licensing requirements, including:

• Owners selling, leasing, or exchanging their own property
• Attorneys licensed in Florida when acting in their professional capacity
• On-site property managers handling leases for their employer's property
• Persons performing clerical or administrative tasks without negotiating terms

For a complete list of exemptions, refer to Fla. Stat. § 489.105.

State Licensing Board Contact

Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC), Department of Business and Professional Regulation
- Phone: 850-487-1395
- Website: https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/real-estate-commission/

References

[^1]: Fla. Stat. § 489.105 — Definitions

The law belongs to the people. Georgia v. Public.Resource.Org, 590 U.S. (2020)