Introduction: The Hard Truth and The Good News
Are you an experienced agent moving from New York or New Jersey to Lake Worth? You likely have one burning question. Does Florida have reciprocity with my state?
The short answer is no.
New York and New Jersey do not have “Mutual Recognition” agreements with Florida. This means you cannot simply swap your license. You must qualify as a new applicant.
This might sound discouraging, but thousands of agents make this transition every year. The Florida market is robust, and your experience gives you a massive advantage over true beginners. At Coldwell Banker Premium Realty, we specialize in helping experienced agents like you soft-land in Lake Worth and get back to closing deals quickly.
Step 1: The Education Requirement
Since there is no reciprocity, the state of Florida requires you to complete the Pre-Licensing Course.
- The Requirement: You must complete the “FREC 1” course. This consists of 63 hours of education.
- The Options: You can take this in a classroom or online. We recommend online courses for relocating agents so you can finish the material before you even pack your moving truck.
- While there are many providers, here are the ones our agents recommend most:
- Gold Coast Schools: The local favorite in South Florida. They offer excellent livestream and in-person options if you prefer a classroom setting.
- The CE Shop: A highly-rated 100% online platform that is self-paced and mobile-friendly. Great if you are still working a full-time job in New York.
- Insider Tip: Before you sign up, contact us. We often have access to discount codes or tuition reimbursement programs for agents who commit to joining our team.
- The Exemption: If you hold a 4-year degree in Real Estate from an accredited university, you may be exempt from this course.
Step 2: The Application and Fingerprints
You do not need to wait until you finish the course to apply. We recommend starting this immediately to avoid delays.
- Submit Your Application: Go to the DBPR (Department of Business and Professional Regulation) website and submit your application for a Sales Associate license.
- Get Fingerprinted: You must submit electronic fingerprints for a background check. This is done through a vendor called Livescan.
- Wait for Approval: The state usually processes applications in 2 to 4 weeks.
Step 3: The State Exam
Once your application is approved and you pass your course final, you can schedule the state exam.
- The Test: It is a 100-question multiple-choice exam.
- The Score: You need a 75% or higher to pass.
- The Content: It covers Florida Real Estate Law, Principles and Practices, and Real Estate Math.
- Study Hack: If you are nervous about the Florida-specific law questions, we highly recommend Tony Mesa Real Estate School. He is a local legend known for his “Exam Cram” weekend reviews that focus specifically on what is actually on the test.
Pro Tip: Florida real estate contracts are different from New York contracts. Even if you have sold homes for 20 years, study the Florida-specific law sections carefully.
Why Experienced Agents Choose Coldwell Banker Premium Realty
Starting over in a new state is scary. You leave behind your reputation and your database. We solve that problem.
1. Keep Your NY Income (Referrals) Do not just abandon your New York clients. We teach you how to use the Coldwell Banker global network to refer that business back to trusted agents in your old office. You can keep earning referral checks from the North while you build your business in the South.
2. Learn the Local Landscape You know how to sell, but you might not know Lake Worth zoning, hurricane shutter regulations, or HOA restrictions. Our mentorship program bridges the gap. We do not teach you “how to be an agent” because you already know that. We teach you how to be a Florida agent.
3. Instant Credibility When you are new to town, nobody knows your name yet. However, everyone knows Coldwell Banker. Leaning on our brand gives you instant trust with local buyers and sellers while you establish your own reputation.
Ready to Make the Move?
Do not navigate the DBPR website alone. Contact us today. We can help you review your application before you submit it to avoid processing delays, and create a business plan so you have leads waiting for you the day your license arrives.
FAQ Section
Q: Can I keep my New York license if I get a Florida license?A: Yes. You can hold active licenses in both states simultaneously. Many of our agents are “Snowbird Agents” who do business in both markets.
Q: How long does it take to get a Florida Real Estate license?A: If you are motivated, you can complete the 63-hour course online in two weeks. With application processing times, most agents can be fully licensed in 30 to 45 days.
Q: Does Coldwell Banker Premium Realty pay for my licensing course?A: We offer various reimbursement programs and incentives for experienced agents joining our Lake Worth office. Contact us to discuss your specific situation.
Q: Do I have to travel to Florida just to take the state exam?A: No. You can take the Florida real estate exam at any authorized Pearson VUE testing center in the United States. You can study, apply, and pass the test from your home state, then move to Lake Worth once you are officially licensed.
Q: Is the Florida exam difficult for experienced agents?A: Yes, it often catches veteran agents off guard. The exam focuses heavily on Florida-specific regulations, not general sales skills. Do not rely on your years of experience alone; you must study the state statutes to pass.
Q: Can I apply for the license before I actually move?A: Yes, and we highly recommend it. Your application is valid for two years from the date it is received. By getting licensed before you pack the moving truck, you can hit the ground running with open houses and leads the week you arrive.
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