If you’ve been dreaming of a career that offers flexibility, financial rewards, and the opportunity to work in an exciting and dynamic field, becoming a real estate agent in Arizona might be the perfect fit. Whether you're stuck in an unfulfilling job or simply seeking a fresh start, real estate offers an exciting path toward achieving your goals.

Here’s your comprehensive guide to getting your Arizona real estate license.

Basic Requirements for Becoming a Real Estate Agent in Arizona

To start your journey, you must meet a few basic qualifications:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Have a high school diploma or GED
• Complete 96 hours of real estate pre-licensing education

Click here to learn more about pre-license education and classes. 

Step-by-Step Process to Get Your Arizona Real Estate License

1. Complete 96 Hours of Pre-Licensing Education

The first requirement to becoming an Arizona real estate agent is completing 96 hours of state-approved real estate courses, followed by an additional 6-hour course on contract writing.

Pro tip: Arizona allows some of these courses to be taken online, giving you the flexibility to study at your own pace.

Check out classes at the school we recommend here: Arizona Real Estate School. 

2. Obtain a Fingerprint Clearance Card

You'll need to apply for an Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) fingerprint card for a background check. This costs around $67 and can take 5-10 business days to process. However, you don’t need to wait for the results before continuing with the next steps.

3. Pass the Arizona Real Estate Exam

Once your courses are complete, it’s time to schedule your exam with Pearson VUE. The test is divided into two parts: the national portion (80 questions, 120 minutes) and the state-specific portion (60 questions, 90 minutes). To pass, you’ll need a score of at least 75%.

Exam prep tip: Consider using a study tool like Prep Agent, which offers a 100% refund if you don’t pass the exam on your first try.

Check out this study tool to help you pass your Arizona Real Estate Exam: Study Tool 

4. Pick a Sponsoring Broker

Before activating your license, you’ll need to choose a brokerage to affiliate with. This is a crucial decision as your broker will provide mentorship, training, and support as you start your career.

What to look for in a broker:

• Training and support: Make sure the brokerage offers mentorship for new agents. Ask about training programs and how much hands-on guidance you’ll receive.
• Commission splits: While commission splits matter, don’t make them your only focus. Prioritize the value of mentorship over earning 100% of your commission.
• Monthly fees and caps: Some brokerages charge monthly fees and have commission caps, so be sure to factor in these costs when making your decision.

5. Submit Your Application and Activate Your License

Once you’ve passed your exam and selected a sponsoring broker, you’ll submit your license application to the Arizona Department of Real Estate (ADRE). At this point, you’ll also need to complete the Disciplinary Actions Disclosure form and provide proof of legal presence.

Cost Breakdown for Becoming a Real Estate Agent in Arizona

On average, you can expect to spend around $650 to get your Arizona real estate license. Here’s a breakdown of the costs:

• Fingerprint clearance card: $67
• Pre-licensing education: $399
• Contract writing course: $49
• Arizona real estate exam fee: $75
• State license fee: $50
• Recovery fund fee: $10

How Long Does It Take to Get Your Real Estate License in Arizona?

The process typically takes 4-5 months, depending on how quickly you complete the pre-licensing education and exam preparation. The most time-intensive steps are completing the required 96 hours of education and getting through the background check.

Pro tip: You can potentially speed up the process by taking online classes and dedicating more time to studying. 

What Happens If You Fail the Exam?

If you don’t pass the exam on your first try, don’t get discouraged. Many successful agents fail their first attempt. You can retake the exam after paying the $75 fee and submitting a new registration form.

Does Arizona Offer Reciprocity With Other States?

If you hold a real estate license in another state, Arizona offers reciprocity agreements with several states, including:

• Alabama
• Georgia
• Virginia
• Washington

Final Thoughts

Becoming a real estate agent in Arizona is a rewarding career move that requires effort and dedication. By following the steps outlined in this guide and staying consistent, you’ll be well on your way to building a successful real estate business.

The real estate market in Arizona, especially in cities like Phoenix and Tempe, is booming. Now’s the time to take the leap, invest in yourself, and make your dream of selling homes a reality.

Keep going, study hard, and don’t give up – success is just around the corner!

Learn more here:  

By following this structured path, you’ll be well-prepared for each stage of the process, ensuring a smoother journey to earning your Arizona real estate license.

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