How to become a real estate agent in Rhode Island
Rhode Island real estate agents are licensed by the Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation, Real Estate Section. Here is what it takes to work as a licensed real estate agent in Rhode Island, 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 Rhode Island law and official forms. Confirm them on the official page before you apply.
Who can become a real estate agent in Rhode Island?
- At least 18 years old
- U.S. citizen or legal resident
- Complete at least 45 classroom hours in an approved real estate course
- Sworn recommendation from the broker you will work for
Rhode Island real estate agent license requirements
| Licensed by | Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation, Real Estate Section |
|---|---|
| License name | Real Estate Salesperson |
| Education or training | Minimum of 45 classroom hours in a real estate course from a permitted school |
| Exam | Written state exam covering real estate law, deeds, mortgages, leases, contracts and fair housing, given through the department's testing service. |
| Works under a broker | Yes. Applicants must file a sworn statement from the employing broker recommending them for a salesperson license. |
| License term | Set by department rule; no license may exceed three years |
| Continuing education | 24 classroom hours of approved CE each two-year period, including at least 3 hours on fair housing. |
| Reciprocity | Applicants licensed in a state with a reciprocal waiver may skip the uniform portion of the exam. |
How much does it cost?
| Application | $10.00 |
|---|---|
| Salesperson license (per year of the license term) | $65.00 |
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 Rhode Island
- Complete the 45-hour salesperson course
- Pass the state exam
- Get a recommendation from your employing broker
- Get errors and omissions insurance
- Apply to the Department with the application and license fees within one year of the exam
How do you check a real estate agent's license in Rhode Island?
- Ask for the license number and confirm it with the Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation, Real Estate Section.
- 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.