Real Estate Licensing in South Highpoint CDP, Florida

Who Needs a License

Under Florida law, a real estate license is required for any person who, for compensation or promise of compensation, sells, purchases, exchanges, rents, or leases real property on behalf of others, or who advertises or holds themselves out as engaging in such activities.[^1]

A "real estate broker" is defined as a person who employs, directly or indirectly, one or more licensed sales associates or broker associates to perform licensed activities on their behalf.[^1] A "real estate sales associate" is a person employed by a broker to perform licensed activities under the broker's direction and responsibility.[^1]

If you perform these activities without a broker's employment or do not work under a broker's authority structure, you must hold your own broker license.

How to Get Licensed

Florida real estate licensing is issued and regulated by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), Division of Real Estate—not by a municipal authority.

For a Sales Associate License:
1. Complete a 63-hour prelicensing course approved by DBPR
2. Pass the Florida Real Estate Sales Associate Examination
3. Affiliate with an active Florida real estate broker
4. Apply to DBPR with your broker's sponsorship

For a Broker License:
1. Hold an active sales associate license for at least 24 months within the preceding 5 years, OR hold a law degree
2. Complete a 72-hour broker prelicensing course approved by DBPR
3. Pass the Florida Real Estate Broker Examination
4. Apply directly to DBPR

Requirements, examination details, and continuing education mandates are codified in [Fla. Stat. § 489.105 and related sections of Chapter 489][1].

Local Requirements

South Highpoint CDP is located in Pinellas County. While real estate licensing is a state function, local zoning and property regulations may affect real estate transactions within the town.

Consult the [South Highpoint Municipal Code][2] for local land use, zoning, and property transaction requirements that may apply to deals involving South Highpoint properties.

For questions about local land use compliance or property standards relevant to real estate transactions, contact the South Highpoint Building Department or the Pinellas County Building Department.

Exemptions

The following are exempt from real estate licensure:[^1]
- Owners of property selling or leasing their own property (not acting as agents for others)
- Employees of property owners performing ministerial acts
- Attorneys licensed in Florida performing real estate services incidental to their legal practice
- Financial institutions and their employees handling mortgages or security interests

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. http://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/

[2]: South Highpoint Municipal Code. https://library.municode.com/fl/south-highpoint-cdp-florida

[^1]: Fla. Stat. § 489.105
[^2]: Fla. Stat. § 489.105

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