Real Estate Licensing in Miami Beach city, Florida

Who Needs a License

In Florida, a real estate license is required to engage in real estate transactions as a broker, sales associate, or property manager. Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, "real estate" includes the sale, exchange, purchase, rental, or leasing of any interest in land or improvements to land in the state, including residential, commercial, and industrial property.

You need a license if you:
- Act as a broker (operate a real estate business and accept commissions)
- Work as a sales associate (represent buyers or sellers under a broker)
- Manage residential properties for compensation
- Negotiate or attempt to negotiate the sale, exchange, lease, or rental of real property on behalf of others

How to Get Licensed

Florida real estate licensing is administered by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), Division of Real Estate.

Step 1: Pre-License Education
Complete 63 hours of approved pre-license instruction from an accredited real estate school for a sales associate license. Broker applicants must complete additional education (72 hours).

Step 2: Pass the State Exam
Pass the Florida real estate licensing examination administered by the DBPR. The exam tests knowledge of Florida real estate law, contract law, and ethical obligations.

Step 3: Apply with DBPR
Submit your application, exam results, and required fees to the Division of Real Estate. Sales associates must be sponsored by a broker before licensure takes effect.

Step 4: Obtain Your License
Upon approval, the DBPR issues your active real estate license valid for 24 months.

Local Requirements

Real estate transactions in Miami Beach are governed by the Miami Beach Municipal Code, which may include local amendments to state requirements, property tax obligations, and disclosure rules specific to the city.

Brokers operating in Miami Beach should consult the municipal code for any local regulations regarding trust account management, office location requirements, or transaction disclosures specific to Miami Beach properties.

For specific local amendments or restrictions on real estate activity within Miami Beach city limits, contact the Miami Beach Building Department or refer directly to the Miami Beach Municipal Code linked above.

Exemptions

Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, licensing exemptions include:
- Property owners conducting transactions on their own property
- Attorneys licensed in Florida while performing real estate services incidental to their practice
- Persons employed solely to perform clerical or administrative tasks

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
• Miami Beach Municipal Code

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