How to become a real estate agent in Maryland
Maryland real estate agents are licensed by the Maryland Real Estate Commission (Maryland Department of Labor). Here is what it takes to work as a licensed real estate agent in Maryland, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a real estate agent in Maryland?
- At least 18 years old
- Good character and reputation
- Convictions reviewed case by case; you submit true test copies of court records
Maryland real estate agent license requirements
| Licensed by | Maryland Real Estate Commission (Maryland Department of Labor) |
|---|---|
| License name | Real Estate Salesperson |
| Education or training | A Commission-approved basic real estate course of 60 clock hours, including a 3-clock-hour real estate ethics course. |
| Exam | PSI administers the exam, which has a national portion and a state portion; you need at least 70% on each. |
| Works under a broker | Yes. You need a commitment from a licensed broker to affiliate with them. To be active right away you must affiliate immediately; an inactive license allows up to 3 years to affiliate. |
| License term | 2 years from the issue date. |
| Continuing education | 15 hours each 2-year renewal period, completed at least 30 days before renewal. For a first renewal by anyone licensed on or after Oct 1, 2023, the 15 hours must cover set topics (Contracts, Brokerage Relationships, Practice, Property Management, Professionalism, Financing). |
| Reciprocity | Reciprocal agreements exist only with Pennsylvania and Oklahoma; licensees from other states apply through out-of-state license recognition, reviewed case by case. |
How much does it cost?
| Salesperson license, original (includes $20 GF payment) | $98 |
|---|---|
| Exam fee (paid to PSI) | $44 |
| Salesperson license renewal | $78 |
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 Maryland
- Complete the 60-hour pre-licensing course with an approved provider
- Schedule the exam with PSI and pay the $44 fee
- Pass the national and state portions (70% on each)
- Get a commitment to affiliate with a licensed broker
- Apply online within one year of the exam using the registration number emailed to you, and pay the $98 fee
Apply on the official Maryland site
How do you check a real estate agent's license in Maryland?
- Search the name or license number on the official Maryland 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.