How to become a real estate agent in New Jersey
New Jersey real estate agents are licensed by the New Jersey Real Estate Commission (Department of Banking and Insurance). Here is what it takes to work as a licensed real estate agent in New Jersey, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a real estate agent in New Jersey?
- At least 18 years old
- High school diploma or equivalency
- Live Scan fingerprinting and criminal history background check
- Commission must be satisfied of honesty, trustworthiness, character and integrity
New Jersey real estate agent license requirements
| Licensed by | New Jersey Real Estate Commission (Department of Banking and Insurance) |
|---|---|
| License name | Real Estate Salesperson |
| Education or training | 75-hour prelicensure course at a licensed school |
| Exam | State license examination administered by PSI Services, offered remotely or in person at PSI test centers. |
| Works under a broker | Yes. After passing the exam you apply for the license through a sponsoring New Jersey real estate broker. |
| License term | 2-year license term; next renewal deadline June 30, 2027 |
| Continuing education | At least 12 CE credit hours per two-year term, including core topics such as ethics, fair housing and agency; those first licensed in the term's second year are exempt. |
| Reciprocity | New Jersey does not have reciprocity with any state; out-of-state licensees may apply for an education waiver. |
How much does it cost?
| Initial salesperson license | $160 |
|---|---|
| Salesperson license renewal | $100 |
| Fingerprinting/criminal history record check (paid to IDEMIA) | $66.05 |
| Salesperson education waiver | $25 |
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 New Jersey
- Complete the 75-hour prelicensure course at a licensed school
- Pass the state exam with PSI
- Get fingerprinted through IDEMIA Live Scan right after passing
- Find a sponsoring New Jersey broker
- Apply for the license through the broker with the $160 fee, all within one year of finishing the course
Apply on the official New Jersey site
How do you check a real estate agent's license in New Jersey?
- Search the name or license number on the official New Jersey 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.