Real Estate Licensing in Jacksonville city, Florida

Who Needs a License

Under Florida law, a real estate license is required to engage in real estate brokerage or sales activities. Per Fla. Stat. § 489.105, a "broker" means any person who, for compensation or valuable consideration, sells, exchanges, purchases, rents, or leases real property, or who negotiates or attempts to negotiate the purchase, sale, exchange, or rental of real property, or who holds themselves out as engaging in such activities. A "sales associate" is any person employed by a broker to perform similar activities on behalf of the broker.

If you intend to represent clients or the public in real estate transactions—whether residential, commercial, or investment properties—in Jacksonville, you must hold an active Florida real estate license issued by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).

How to Get Licensed

Step 1: Complete a 63-hour pre-licensing course approved by the DBPR. This course covers Florida real estate law, contracts, and professional practices.

Step 2: Pass the Florida Real Estate Sales Associate or Broker exam administered by an approved testing vendor. The exam covers state statutes, rules, and ethical standards.

Step 3: Apply to the DBPR for licensure. You must provide:
- Proof of course completion
- Passing exam scores
- A sponsoring broker (sales associates only)
- Application fees

Step 4: The DBPR issues your license upon approval. Licenses are valid for two years and require 14 continuing education hours during each renewal period.

Reference Fla. Stat. § 489.105 for statutory definitions and licensing requirements.

Local Requirements

Jacksonville operates under Duval County jurisdiction. The Jacksonville Municipal Code governs local real estate practices within city limits.

Consult the Jacksonville Municipal Code for any local amendments, conduct standards, or disclosure requirements specific to the city. Additionally, contact the Jacksonville Building Department or Duval County Property Appraiser's office regarding local real estate transaction records, deed recording, and title requirements.

State licensing is your primary requirement; however, Jacksonville may impose additional local compliance obligations. Review the municipal code directly to confirm current local amendments.

Exemptions

Per Fla. Stat. § 489.105, exemptions include property owners selling or leasing their own property without receiving compensation for negotiation services, and salaried employees conducting real estate transactions for their employer's internal business purposes (not for compensation from the public).

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

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