Real Estate Licensing in White Springs town, Florida
Who Needs a License
In Florida, a real estate license is required to engage in the business of selling, buying, exchanging, leasing, or renting real property on behalf of others for compensation. Fla. Stat. § 489.105 defines a "real estate broker" as any person who, for compensation, sells, exchanges, purchases, rents, or leases real property or its improvements, or offers, attempts, or agrees to perform these acts. A "real estate sales associate" is a person employed by a broker to perform similar services on the broker's behalf.
If you are acting as an independent real estate professional in White Springs—whether representing buyers, sellers, landlords, or tenants for a fee or commission—you must hold an active Florida real estate license.
How to Get Licensed
Step 1: Meet Prerequisites
- Be at least 18 years old
- Provide proof of legal residency or work authorization in the United States
- Submit a complete application to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR)
Step 2: Pass the Licensing Exam
Complete an approved pre-licensing course (63 hours for sales associates; additional hours for brokers). Pass the Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC) licensing exam administered by DBPR.
Step 3: Apply to DBPR
Submit your exam results and application to DBPR. A broker must sponsor a sales associate; brokers apply independently.
Step 4: Receive License
DBPR issues your license once all requirements are met. Licenses expire every two years and require continuing education to renew.
For specific application procedures and current exam schedules, contact the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation's Division of Real Estate directly.
Local Requirements
White Springs town falls under Hamilton County, Florida. Building permits and property-related approvals are issued through the appropriate county or municipal authority. Consult the White Springs Municipal Code for any local amendments or additional requirements beyond state law. Contact the White Springs Building Department for town-specific permitting procedures and any local restrictions on real estate activities within town limits.
Exemptions
Per Fla. Stat. § 489.105, individuals performing real estate services without compensation are exempt from licensing requirements. Additionally, certain transactions and parties—such as attorneys licensed to practice law in Florida performing real estate services incidental to their practice—may be exempt. Review the statute for a complete list of exemptions applicable to your situation.
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)