Real Estate Licensing in Palmetto, Florida

Who Needs a License

A real estate license is required to engage in any activity defined as a "real estate transaction" under Florida law. Per Fla. Stat. § 489.105, this includes selling, buying, exchanging, leasing, or offering to perform these acts for another person in exchange for compensation. Compensation includes commission, salary, or any other consideration of value.

This applies to individuals acting as real estate brokers or sales associates. Even if you work part-time or handle only one transaction, licensure is mandatory if you receive compensation.

How to Get Licensed

Step 1: Meet Eligibility Requirements
You must be at least 18 years old and a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. Per Fla. Stat. § 489.105, you cannot have been convicted of certain crimes or have active disciplinary actions from another state's real estate board.

Step 2: Complete Prelicensing Education
Complete an approved 63-hour prelicensing course from a school approved by the Florida Commission. Courses are offered online and in-person.

Step 3: Pass the Licensing Exam
Pass the Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC) licensing examination administered by PSI or another approved testing vendor.

Step 4: Apply with the FREC
Submit your application to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), Division of Real Estate. The FREC issues Florida real estate licenses.

Step 5: Sponsor Requirement
As a sales associate, you must be sponsored by a licensed broker. Brokers must be licensed separately with additional requirements.

Local Requirements

Palmetto is located in Manatee County. Local real estate transaction requirements are established in the Palmetto Municipal Code. Refer to this ordinance for any local amendments to state real estate law, disclosure requirements, or specific practices within city limits.

Contact the Palmetto Building Department or the City of Palmetto for clarification on local regulations affecting real estate transactions within city limits.

Exemptions

Per Fla. Stat. § 489.105, the following are exempt from licensing:
- Property owners selling their own property
- Attorneys licensed in Florida acting in their professional capacity
- Persons acting as property managers under specific conditions
- Persons assisting without compensation

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
• Palmetto Municipal Code

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