What States Have Real Estate License Reciprocity With Florida?

Florida has its share of hot housing markets. So, becoming a Florida real estate agent may be an exciting thought. But what if you’re a real estate pro, or an aspiring one, who wants to do business in the Sunshine State and other states? There’s a way to do it.

Some states ask you to take more education and complete the entire state licensing exam, while others don’t. The ones who waive the need for more education have a reciprocity agreement with Florida. Here’s how reciprocity works with real estate licenses when it comes to Florida.

What States Does Florida Have Reciprocity With?

Florida has reciprocity, or mutual recognition agreements, with eight states. They are:

• Alabama
• Arkansas
• Connecticut
• Georgia
• Illinois
• Mississippi
• Nebraska
• Rhode Island

If you're moving to Florida from one of these states, you won't have to get a new license. Real estate laws and regulations in these eight states are like Florida laws. So, the Florida Real Estate Commission does not mandate more real estate education from agents who operate in these eight states.

If you have a license from one of the eight reciprocal states, all you need to do is pass a short 40-question test on Florida real estate law. You can then file an application for a real estate license in the state.

What States Accept a Florida Real Estate License?

What about if you have a Florida real estate license but want to practice in another state? You're in luck, as you'll have even more options to choose from. There are 10 states that offer full reciprocity with a Florida license, including:

• Alabama
• Arkansas
• Colorado
• Connecticut
• Illinois
• Indiana
• Maine
• Mississippi
• Nebraska
• Virginia

How Reciprocity Helps You

Reciprocity is an important tool for real estate agents. Because transactions are largely done online, it’s easier to operate in many states. You can also increase your real estate business. Here are some examples of how it can work for you.

If you live near the Georgia or Alabama borders, you could serve clients in both states. Or if you work with winter visitors from Connecticut, you may help them buy in Florida and sell up north.

Other Things to Know

If you are a real estate agent in a reciprocal state and want to apply for a license in Florida, your license must be in good standing. You must also maintain all continuing education requirements to keep your active status in Florida. If you do not, this could affect your ability to do business in both states. The same goes for Florida licensees working in other reciprocal states.

In Florida, a salesperson must take 45 hours of continuing education in the first two years. A broker must take 60 hours of post-licensing education. After that you’ll need to take 14 hours of continuing education every two years to keep your license active.

Start in Florida

If you live in Florida and want to start your real estate career, start with pre-licensing education in your home state. The Aceable Agent Florida education program is available entirely online and approved by the Florida Real Estate Commission. It comes with interactive learning modules and test preparation tools to help you succeed. And best of all, you are guaranteed to pass the licensing exam or your money back.

Your real estate career starts by establishing yourself in one state. But when you know which states your home state has a mutual agreement with, expanding is that much easier. As a Florida real estate agent, you know you have eight safe landing spots to easily expand your career.