How to Become a Real Estate Agent in Washington
Unlimited earning potential, the ability to be your own boss, and a flexible work schedule are some of the most cited reasons why real estate agents love what they do. So, how do you get started in real estate? This article breaks down what you need to know to become a licensed real estate agent – which is also known as a real estate broker in Washington.
How to Get a Real Estate License in Washington
In order to practice real estate in the state of Washington, you need to obtain a real estate broker license. But before you can go for your license, you must meet two requirements: be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent education. Once you have met these requirements, you are ready to start the four-step real estate licensing process.
Step 1: Complete the pre-licensing education requirement.
The first step to getting your Washington real estate license is to complete 90 hours of pre-licensing education comprised of two courses: a Washington fundamentals course (60 hours) and a Washington practices course (30 hours). You can complete this education in a physical classroom or from the comfort of your own home via a self-paced online course or livestream.
Step 2: Pass the Washington state real estate exam.
Next, you must pass the state and national portions of the Washington real estate exam, which will cover what you learned in your pre-licensing education courses. If you don’t pass the exam, you may retake it, though you will have an additional fee of $210. To help you feel confident on test day, Rockwell Institute offers an exam prep course and Pass or Don’t Pay Guarantee, which are included in all pre-licensing packages.
Step 3: Submit your fingerprints for a background check.
Once you pass your exam, you must submit your fingerprints for a background check at an IdentoGo center.
Step 4: Submit your application.
Finally, you must submit your application and fees to the Washington State Department of Licensing.
How Much Does it Cost to Get Your Real Estate License in Washington?
The cost to get your Washington real estate license can vary based on the pre-licensing education package you select, which ranges between approximately $400-700. Additionally, you need to pay the real estate exam fee ($210), fingerprinting and background check fee ($44), and application fee ($223). So, in total, you can expect to pay between $877-1,117. Considering the average tuition for community college in Washington is $3,633, getting your real estate license is quite affordable.
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Pre-licensing education | $400 – $700 |
| Application fee | $223 |
| Testing fee | $210 |
| Fingerprinting | $44 |
| Total | $877 – $1,117 |
How Long Does it Take to Get a Real Estate License?
How long it takes to get your Washington real estate license depends primarily on the time it takes to complete your 90-hour pre-licensing education. If you elect to take your pre-licensing education via in-person or livestream, it can take three to eight weeks, depending on your selected schedule. Alternatively, if you choose the self-paced, online option, you could complete your education in as little as one week. However, it may be more advantageous to take your time to digest the material so that you’re well-prepared for the real estate license exam.
Apart from the time it takes to complete the education, you need to account for the time it takes to register for and take the real estate exam, which can take several days or longer, depending on the availability of the testing center. Also, if you don’t pass the exam on the first attempt, you will need to retake it, thus increasing the time it takes to get your Washington real estate license.
Lastly, you also need to account for application and background check processing time, which typically takes five to ten business days. So, while you could get your Washington real estate license in less than one month, you should be prepared for potential processing delays.
What Jobs Can I Get with a Washington Real Estate License?
Most people get their Washington real estate license to become real estate brokers, but that’s not the only job you can do with a real estate license. Here are some jobs that require a Washington real estate license.
Managing broker
A managing broker supervises real estate brokers, and in Washington, a managing broker’s license is required, in addition to at least three years of experience as a licensed real estate broker.
Property manager
A property manager manages investment properties, including handling tenant requests, collecting rent, and providing tours of vacant units. In addition to having an active broker’s license, property managers also need to have additional certification.
Real estate branch manager
A real estate branch manager runs a real estate branch by supporting the branch’s real estate brokers and other employees and ensuring compliance with legal and ethical standards. Real estate branch managers must have a managing broker license and endorsement from a designated broker.
Real estate designated broker
A real estate designated broker owns a real estate firm and handles the business aspects of running a real estate firm, such as hiring brokers and staff, establishing business practices, and setting firm goals. Because the designated broker is the owner, they are liable for any legal issues that may arise. A designated broker must have a managing broker license and meet the requirements for endorsement.
How Much do Real Estate Agents Make in Washington
The high income potential is one of the most attractive aspects of becoming a real estate agent. In Washington state, the average real estate agent income in 2024 is $92,866, according to Job Search | Indeed.
Real Estate License Reciprocity with Washington
If you are already licensed in another state, it may be easier to get licensed in Washington through reciprocity. Real estate license reciprocity enables those already licensed in one state to have an easier time getting licensed in another. Washington has reciprocity with all 50 states. However, you must take (and pass) the state portion of the real estate exam, provide your license history, and get fingerprinted to apply for license reciprocity.
Washington Real Estate Continuing Education Requirements
Once you get your Washington real estate license, you must keep it active by completing the continuing education requirements every two years. You must complete 90 hours of continuing education the first time you renew your license. Every subsequent license renewal only requires 30 hours of continuing education, which will help keep you updated on the latest real estate changes.
Start Your Real Estate Career Today
Starting a new career can be daunting, but you don’t have to go it alone. At Rockwell Institute, we’re dedicated to helping you build a successful real estate career.
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