Real Estate Licensing in Lantana, Florida
Who Needs a License
Under Florida law, a real estate broker or sales associate must be licensed to engage in real estate transactions. Fla. Stat. § 489.105 defines a "broker" as any person who, for compensation, sells, exchanges, purchases, rents, or leases real property, or offers to perform these acts on behalf of others. A "sales associate" is a person employed by a broker who performs similar services under the broker's supervision.
If you are compensated for real estate activities—whether buying, selling, leasing, or managing property on behalf of clients—you need a license. This applies in Lantana and throughout Florida.
How to Get Licensed
For a Broker License:
1. Apply through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR)
2. Meet education requirements: complete a 72-hour broker pre-licensing course from a DBPR-approved school
3. Pass the Florida broker licensing exam
4. Satisfy experience requirements (typically one year as an active sales associate within the five years preceding application)
5. Submit your application with required documentation and fees to DBPR
For a Sales Associate License:
1. Apply through DBPR
2. Complete a 63-hour sales associate pre-licensing course from a DBPR-approved school
3. Pass the Florida sales associate licensing exam
4. Sponsorship by a licensed Florida broker is required before you can activate your license
5. Submit your application with required documentation and fees to DBPR
Reference Fla. Stat. § 489.105 for complete statutory requirements.
Local Requirements
Lantana is governed by the Lantana Municipal Code. While Florida law preempts most real estate licensing regulation, consult the municipal code for any local amendments, local office requirements, or property-specific regulations within the town limits.
Any local real estate transaction documentation or property permits would be handled through the Lantana Building Department or Palm Beach County authorities depending on the nature of the transaction.
Exemptions
Fla. Stat. § 489.105 exempts certain parties from licensure requirements, including:
- Property owners selling or leasing their own property
- Attorneys licensed to practice law in Florida, when performing real estate services as part of their legal practice
- Employees of property management companies under certain conditions
Review the full statute for additional exemptions applicable to your situation.
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)