Real Estate Licensing in Mount Dora 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" is defined as any person who, for compensation, sells, exchanges, purchases, rents, or leases real property, or who offers, attempts, or agrees to perform these acts on behalf of others. A "sales associate" is a person who performs real estate services under the supervision of a broker.

If you represent buyers, sellers, landlords, or tenants in any real estate transaction—or negotiate, solicit, or accept compensation for such services—you need a license.

How to Get Licensed

Florida's Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) issues real estate licenses through the Division of Real Estate.

Steps:

  1. Satisfy pre-licensing education: Complete the required classroom hours (63 hours for sales associates; varies for brokers).

  2. Pass the state exam: After completing pre-licensing education, pass the Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC) licensing examination.

  3. Apply with DBPR: Submit your application, exam results, and required fees to DBPR.

  4. Sponsor requirement: Sales associates must be employed by a licensed broker before receiving their license. Brokers must meet additional experience and bonding requirements under Fla. Stat. § 489.105.

For exact current fees, exam schedules, and application procedures, contact DBPR's Division of Real Estate directly, as these details change periodically and are not specified in municipal code.

Local Requirements

Real estate licensing is regulated entirely by the State of Florida under Fla. Stat. § 489.105. Mount Dora does not issue real estate licenses or maintain separate local licensing requirements for real estate brokers or sales associates.

However, if your real estate business involves property management, short-term rentals, or office operations within city limits, you must comply with Mount Dora Municipal Code requirements for business licenses and zoning. Consult the Mount Dora Municipal Code and contact the Mount Dora Building Department to confirm local zoning permits and business registration requirements applicable to your specific operation.

Exemptions

Fla. Stat. § 489.105 exempts certain parties from licensure:
- Owners dealing in their own property
- Attorneys licensed in Florida while performing services incidental to their legal practice
- Licensed property managers acting solely as property managers (not as sales agents)
- Employees of financial institutions handling foreclosures within their employer's business

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)