Real Estate Licensing in Lake Clarke Shores, Florida

Who Needs a License

Real estate licensing requirements in Florida are governed by state statute. Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, a "real estate broker" is defined as any person who, for compensation or the promise of compensation, sells, exchanges, purchases, rents, or leases real property, or who lists, offers, attempts, or agrees to list real property for sale, exchange, purchase, rental, or lease. A "real estate sales associate" is any person employed by a broker who performs these activities.

If you engage in brokerage activities—including selling residential or commercial property, managing rental properties for compensation, or listing properties—you must hold an active Florida real estate license.

How to Get Licensed

1. Meet Basic Eligibility: You must be at least 18 years old, a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, and a Florida resident.

2. Complete Pre-Licensing Education: Enroll in an approved real estate pre-licensing course offered by Florida-approved schools.

3. Pass the Licensing Exam: Take the Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC) exam administered by Pearson Vue.

4. Join a Brokerage: You cannot hold a license independently—you must work under an active broker.

5. Apply Through Your Broker: Your employing broker files your application with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).

Reference Fla. Stat. § 489.105 for complete statutory requirements.

Local Requirements

Lake Clarke Shores is located in Palm Beach County. While real estate licensing is controlled entirely by state statute, you must comply with local municipal codes when conducting business in the town.

Review the Lake Clarke Shores Municipal Code for any local ordinances governing property management, rental licensing, or business operations within town limits. Contact the Lake Clarke Shores Building Department for information on local permits or zoning restrictions that may apply to your real estate activities.

Exemptions

Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, exemptions include:

• Owners selling, leasing, or renting their own property without compensation beyond the transaction itself
• Attorneys at law conducting real estate transactions as part of their legal practice
• Property managers employed by non-profit organizations or government agencies
• Employees of utility companies or railroads managing right-of-way transactions

The statute defines exemptions narrowly—verify your specific situation against statutory language.

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
• Lake Clarke Shores Municipal Code

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