Real Estate Licensing in Cudjoe Key CDP, Florida

Who Needs a License

In Florida, a real estate license is required for any person who, for compensation, sells, purchases, exchanges, leases, or rents real property, or who offers or attempts to do so on behalf of others.[^1] This includes residential and commercial transactions.

The definition under state law encompasses listing property for sale, negotiating sales or leases, and advertising real estate for others.[^1] If you perform these activities in Cudjoe Key for compensation, you need a license.

Sole proprietors acting only on their own property—without representing clients—generally do not need licensing. However, if you represent clients or engage in brokerage activities, licensing is required.

How to Get Licensed

Florida real estate licensing is administered by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), not a local board.

Steps:

1. Complete a 63-hour pre-license course from a DBPR-approved provider
2. Pass the Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC) exam
3. Apply to DBPR with your exam results, fingerprints, and application fee
4. Maintain an active sponsorship with a registered Florida brokerage firm

Refer to [Fla. Stat. § 489.105][1] for statutory definitions and licensing requirements. Contact DBPR directly for current exam schedules, fees, and application procedures—these are controlled by state regulation, not by Cudjoe Key.

Local Requirements

Cudjoe Key is located in Monroe County, Florida and operates under the Cudjoe Key Municipal Code.[^2]

Real estate transactions in Cudjoe Key may require local permits for property transfers, deed recording, or development approval depending on the nature of the transaction. Contact the Cudjoe Key Building Department or the Monroe County Clerk's office to determine whether your transaction triggers local permitting requirements.

Consult the [Cudjoe Key Municipal Code][2] for any local amendments, zoning restrictions, or additional disclosure requirements that may apply to real estate transactions within the municipality. Local regulations may impose additional obligations beyond state licensing law.

Exemptions

Under Florida law, the following are exempt from licensing requirements:[^1]

• Owners of real property acting on their own behalf without representing other parties
• Employees of property owners acting solely for their employer (in limited circumstances)
• Attorneys licensed to practice law in Florida, when performing services within their legal practice
• Certified public accountants and their employees, in connection with accounting services

Any person claiming an exemption should verify their specific circumstances with DBPR or legal counsel, as exemptions are narrowly construed.

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

[1]: Fla. Stat. § 489.105 — Definitions
[2]: Cudjoe Key Municipal Code

For state licensing questions: Contact the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation.

For local permit and code questions: Contact the Cudjoe Key Building Department or Monroe County.

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