Real Estate Licensing in Hilliard, Florida

Who Needs a License

Under Florida law, a real estate broker or sales associate must hold a license to engage in the business of selling, buying, exchanging, leasing, or renting real property, or offering to perform these services for compensation.[Fla. Stat. § 489.105] This includes residential property, commercial property, and vacant land transactions.

Any individual or business representing clients in real estate transactions within Hilliard (Nassau County) must be licensed by the State of Florida. The license requirement applies regardless of whether you work independently or for a brokerage firm.

How to Get Licensed

Real estate licensing in Florida is regulated by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), not by local municipalities.

Steps:

  1. Pre-License Education: Complete a DBPR-approved real estate pre-license course (63 hours for sales associates; 72 hours for brokers).
  2. Apply to DBPR: Submit your application to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation with proof of education completion.
  3. Pass the State Exam: Take and pass the Florida real estate licensing exam administered by a DBPR-approved testing vendor.
  4. Receive Your License: Once approved and your exam is passed, DBPR issues your license.

For specific exam dates, approved course providers, and application procedures, visit the DBPR website or contact them directly. License renewal occurs biennially and requires continuing education credits.

Local Requirements

Hilliard operates under the Hilliard Municipal Code. Review this code for any local ordinances affecting real estate transactions or broker operations within town limits.

Real estate brokers and agents operating in Hilliard must comply with both state licensing requirements and any local business registration or operating requirements under the municipal code. Contact the Hilliard Building Department to confirm whether additional local permits or registrations are required before conducting real estate business in town.

Exemptions

Florida law exempts certain activities from licensing requirements: individuals acting as principals buying or selling their own property; attorneys licensed to practice law in Florida when providing real estate services incidental to legal representation; and property managers acting under specific conditions outlined in the statute.[Fla. Stat. § 489.105]

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)