Real Estate Licensing in Hollywood, Florida

Who Needs a License

Florida law defines a "broker" as any person who, for another and for a fee, commission, or other valuable consideration, sells, exchanges, purchases, rents, or leases real property, or who offers or attempts to do so. A "sales associate" is any natural person associated with a broker who performs real estate services on behalf of that broker. Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, both brokers and sales associates must hold active Florida real estate licenses issued by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).

If you represent clients in buying, selling, leasing, or exchanging real property for compensation, you need licensure regardless of your job title.

How to Get Licensed

Sales Associate License:
1. Complete a 63-hour pre-licensing course from a DBPR-approved school
2. Pass the Florida real estate sales associate examination
3. Associate with a licensed broker before your license is issued
4. Submit your application to DBPR

Broker License:
1. Hold an active sales associate license for at least 24 months during the preceding 5 years (or equivalent experience)
2. Complete a 72-hour broker pre-licensing course
3. Pass the Florida broker examination
4. Submit your application to DBPR

License application, exam scheduling, and approved course providers are managed through the DBPR Division of Regulation. Visit the DBPR website for current exam schedules and approved schools.

Local Requirements

Real estate transactions in Hollywood are subject to Hollywood Municipal Code. While state law governs licensing, the city has local rules regarding commercial property transactions, zoning compliance, and title requirements. Consult the Hollywood Municipal Code to confirm any local amendments or additional restrictions that may affect your practice in the city.

Contact the Hollywood Building Department for guidance on local real estate transaction requirements and permit coordination specific to properties within the city.

Exemptions

The following are exempt from licensing:
- Owners selling their own property (no third-party compensation involved)
- Attorneys licensed in Florida, when performing services as part of legal practice
- Officers or employees of licensed brokers or property managers acting solely for their employer
- Persons leasing property on behalf of the property owner without receiving a separate fee

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

• Fla. Stat. § 489.105 — Definitions
• Hollywood Municipal Code

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