How to become a real estate agent in District of Columbia
District of Columbia real estate agents are licensed by the DC Real Estate Commission (Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection). Here is what it takes to work as a licensed real estate agent in District of Columbia, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Part of the state's website could not be reached when we checked, so some details come from District of Columbia law and official forms. Confirm them on the official page before you apply.
Who can become a real estate agent in District of Columbia?
- Complete 60 hours of pre-licensing education from a DCREC-approved provider
- Pass the national and DC portions of the salesperson exam
- Unexpired government-issued ID and a 2x2 passport-style photo
District of Columbia real estate agent license requirements
| Licensed by | DC Real Estate Commission (Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection) |
|---|---|
| License name | Salesperson |
| Education or training | 60 hours of pre-licensing education from a DC Real Estate Commission-approved provider. |
| Exam | PSI administers the salesperson exam, which has a national portion and a DC portion; the license application and fees must be submitted within six months of passing. |
| Works under a broker | Yes. A salesperson works under a licensed DC broker. DC Code 47-2853.184(b) ties a salesperson's license to employment, and the renewal application includes a transfer when moving to a new brokerage. |
| License term | Up to two years; salesperson licenses expire August 31 of odd-numbered years. |
| Continuing education | 15 hours per renewal cycle: 3 hours each of DC Legislative Update, Ethics, Fair Housing, Property Management and a general elective; this does not apply to the first renewal of a license granted by exam (2023-2025 cycle). |
| Reciprocity | Licensees from other jurisdictions can apply by endorsement or reciprocity by taking 3-hour DC Fair Housing and Property Management courses, passing the DC portion of the exam (75% minimum for endorsement), and sending a sealed certification letter dated within 90 days. |
How much does it cost?
| Application fee | $65 |
|---|---|
| Salesperson license | $130 |
| Real Estate Guaranty and Education Fund (included in licensee fees) | $60 |
Fees as listed by the state. Schools, courses, exam prep, insurance and equipment cost extra and vary by provider.
Steps to become a real estate agent in District of Columbia
- Complete 60 hours of pre-licensing education with a DCREC-approved provider
- Schedule the salesperson exam with PSI
- Pass both the national and DC portions
- Associate with a licensed DC broker
- Apply online with ID, photo and fees within six months of passing
Apply on the official District of Columbia site
How do you check a real estate agent's license in District of Columbia?
- Search the name or license number on the official District of Columbia real estate agent license lookup.
- Check that the status is active and the name matches the person or company you're hiring.
- Ask how long they've been licensed and whether any complaints or discipline are on record.