How To Become a Real Estate Agent in Louisiana
Becoming a real estate agent in Louisiana is a rewarding career choice. Not only does it offer the potential for significant income, it helps others to achieve their homeownership dreams. Here at Bob Brooks School, we provide students with fulfilling education opportunities and the knowledge needed to jumpstart real estate careers. If you want to know how to become a real estate agent in Louisiana, here is a brief guide to help you navigate the process.
Meet the Basic Requirements
Before you begin your professional journey, it’s important to make sure you possess the basic qualifications for the role. To become a licensed real estate agent in Louisiana, you must meet the following requirements.
- Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
- Residency: You need to be a legal resident of the United States. You do not need to be a Louisiana resident to obtain a license.
- Education: You must have a high school diploma or an equivalent, such as a GED.
- You must successfully complete 90 hours of real estate education in courses approved by the Louisiana Real Estate Commission (LREC.)
- You must comply with all application procedures required by the LREC.
- You must pass the real estate salesperson licensing examination.
- You must be supervised by a licensed real estate broker and provide proof of errors and omissions insurance prior to license issuance.
Complete the Required Pre-License Education
If you want to become a real estate agent in Louisiana, your pre-license education is one of the most crucial components. Louisiana requires prospective real estate agents to complete 90 hours of pre-license education from a state-approved provider. The required coursework to become a real estate agent in Louisiana covers essential topics such as real estate laws, practices, principles, and ethics.
And, with Bob Brooks School, you can try your first six lessons absolutely free – no credit card required. This free trial can help you determine whether a career in real estate might be the best fit for you.
Pass the Louisiana Real Estate Exam
After completing the pre-license education, the next step is to pass the Louisiana Real Estate Salesperson Exam. The exam is administered by PSI, a third-party testing company.
- Exam Format: The exam consists of two sections, national and state specific. The national section covers general real estate principles. The state-specific section tests your knowledge of Louisiana real estate laws and regulations.
- Passing score: You need to score at least 70% on both sections to pass the exam.
- Exam Preparation: It is advisable to take practice exams and review your coursework thoroughly to prepare for your test. Some education providers also offer exam prep courses.
Submit Your License Application
Once you have passed the exam, you’ll submit your real estate license application to the (LREC). The application process involves:
- Completing the License Application Form: This could be done online through LREC’s website.
- Application Fee: Pay the application fee, which is currently $90 for a salesperson license.
- Background Check: You must undergo a criminal background check. This involves submitting fingerprints, which can be done through an LREC-approved vendor.
Find a Sponsoring Broker
In Louisiana, new real estate agents must work under the supervision of a licensed real estate broker. Before your license is issued, you’ll need to secure a sponsoring broker who can mentor you and provide necessary training and support.
When choosing a broker, consider factors such as commission splits, training programs, office culture, and the broker’s reputation in the market. Take the time to interview multiple brokers to find the best fit for your career goals.
Receive Your License
After your application is approved and you’ve secured a sponsoring broker, the LREC will issue your real estate salesperson license.
Congratulations! You have officially become a licensed real estate agent in Louisiana.
Maintain Your License
To maintain your real estate license in Louisiana, you must complete 45 hours of post-licensing education in your first 180 days as a real estate agent.
After completing your post-licensing requirements, you will need to meet the less-demanding continuing education (CE) requirements. The LREC requires 12 hours of CE annually. This includes a mandatory 4-hour course on the Louisiana Real Estate License Law and Commission Rules and Regulations.
In addition to CE, you must renew your license every year. This involves paying a renewal fee and submitting proof of your completed CE hours.
Now That You Know How To Become a Real Estate Agent in Louisiana, Start Your Career!
The journey to become a real estate agent in Louisiana is straightforward. However, it requires dedication, preparation, and annual ongoing education. By following these steps and staying informed about state regulations, you can build a successful career in the industry. For more information on enrolling at Bob Brooks School to begin your education, contact us online or call (225) 292-7277. Good luck on your journey to become a licensed real estate agent in Louisiana!
