Real Estate Licensing in Captiva CDP, Florida

Who Needs a License

In Florida, a real estate license is required for anyone who, for compensation, sells, purchases, exchanges, leases, or rents real property, or who advertises or offers such services to the public. [Fla. Stat. § 489.105] This includes real estate brokers and sales associates.

A broker is defined as a person who employs one or more sales associates or who operates independently to engage in real estate transactions. A sales associate is a natural person who works for a broker and performs real estate services on the broker's behalf.

If you perform real estate services in Captiva CDP without proper licensing, you are subject to civil and criminal penalties under Florida law.

How to Get Licensed

Step 1: Meet Eligibility Requirements
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a Florida resident or obtain a resident agent license
- Pass a background check
- Complete required pre-licensing education

Step 2: Complete Pre-Licensing Education
You must complete a Florida Commission-approved real estate pre-licensing course (63 hours for sales associates, 72 hours for brokers). Courses are offered by private education providers throughout Florida.

Step 3: Pass the State Exam
Register with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) and pass the Florida Real Estate Commission's state licensing exam.

Step 4: Apply for Your License
Submit your application to the DBPR with your exam passing score, education certificate, and any required fees. Processing typically takes 1-2 weeks.

The Florida Real Estate Commission, a division of DBPR, issues all real estate licenses in Florida. Contact the DBPR at 850-487-1395 or visit their website for current exam schedules and approved course providers.

Local Requirements

Captiva CDP is governed by the Captiva Municipal Code. Captiva Municipal Code

Review the Code for any local licensing, registration, or conduct requirements specific to real estate professionals operating in Captiva. Contact the Captiva Building Department to confirm whether local registration or local permits are required in addition to your state real estate license.

Captiva CDP is located in Lee County. Check Lee County requirements as well, as county-level regulations may apply.

Exemptions

[Fla. Stat. § 489.105] exempts certain persons from real estate licensing requirements, including:
- Property owners selling or leasing their own property
- Attorneys licensed to practice law in Florida (when performing real estate work as part of legal services)
- Employees of property management companies under certain conditions
- Federal, state, and local government employees acting in their official capacity

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)