Can I Get a Georgia Real Estate License with a Criminal Record?

Yes — a criminal record doesn't automatically disqualify you from getting a Georgia real estate license. The Georgia Real Estate Commission (GREC)Grec.state.ga.us evaluates each applicant individually, weighing the nature of the offense, how much time has passed, and whether you've demonstrated good character since. Full disclosure and strong character references go a long way. Here's how the process works.

Key Facts at a Glance

Factor	Details
Criminal record automatically disqualifies?	No — each case is reviewed individually
Background Clearance Application	Can be submitted before starting pre-licensing
GCIC/criminal report validity	Must be dated within 60 days of application
Character references required	3 letters from business associates aware of conviction
Wait time after single felony (salesperson)	2 years
Wait time after multiple felonies (salesperson)	5 years
Wait time after felony (broker applicants)	10 years
Investigation timeline	Typically completed within one month
Appeal option	Yes — through the Office of the State Administrative Law Judge

Source: Georgia Real Estate Commission.

What You're Required to Disclose

When you apply to take the Georgia real estate licensing exam, you must disclose your full criminal and disciplinary history. This includes criminal convictions in any state or country, convictions that have been pardoned or expunged, offenses addressed under a first offender sentence, nolo contendere pleas, and any sanctions by a licensing or regulatory agency.

There are no exceptions to this disclosure requirement. GREC conducts a thorough background check as part of every application — if they find something you didn't disclose, it will count against you significantly more than the underlying offense itself. When in doubt, disclose.

The Background Clearance Application

If you have a criminal history, you don't have to wait until after you've completed your pre-licensing course to find out where you stand. GREC allows applicants to submit a Background Clearance ApplicationForms Applications Applications Real Estate Grec.state.ga.us before spending any money on education or exam fees. A commission investigator will review your history and GREC will issue a determination on your eligibility before you've committed to the process financially.

This is worth doing early. If your application is likely to be denied, knowing that upfront saves you significant time and cost.

Getting Your Criminal History Report

When you apply for your license, you'll need to submit an official criminal history report. The type you need depends on your situation: Georgia residents must obtain a Georgia Crime Information Center (GCIC) report from a local police station or sheriff's office. Anyone living outside Georgia must provide a criminal report from their home state or a National Crime Information Center (NCIC) report. If you live in Georgia but have a conviction from another state, you'll need both a GCIC and an NCIC report.

All reports must be dated within 60 days of your application. Time it accordingly — pulling it too early means you may need to get a new one.

Common Reasons Licenses Are Denied

GREC weighs several factors when evaluating applicants with a criminal history. The most common reasons for denial are:

The severity of the offense matters most. Most felonies carry a high risk of denial, as do misdemeanors involving moral turpitude — which includes crimes like forgery, embezzlement, theft, and extortion.

Incomplete sentences are a significant barrier. Applicants still on probation or parole are generally denied until their sentence is fully served, including any required restitution.

Timing plays a major role. GREC wants evidence that the behavior won't be repeated. For salesperson applicants, the general guidance is a minimum two-year wait after a single felony and a five-year wait after multiple felonies. Broker applicants must typically wait at least 10 years after a felony or crime of moral turpitude. GREC has stated there is "no magic time period," but these are the benchmarks they apply in practice.

Weak or inappropriate character references reduce your chances. Three letters are required, and they carry more weight when they come from business associates who are aware of your conviction and still vouch for your character — not from family members or clergy. A letter that speaks to your professional trustworthiness in spite of your past is far more persuasive than a general character endorsement.

Failure to disclose is the single most avoidable reason for denial. Don't let it be the reason you're turned down.

What Happens After You Submit

Once GREC receives your Background Clearance Application and supporting documents, a commission investigator reviews everything connected to the conviction or sanction. They may request additional documentation — respond promptly — or request an in-person interview. Investigations typically wrap up within one month. If you're cleared, GREC will mail you a Clearance Letter. Keep it. You'll need it in your application packet.

Can You Appeal a Denial?

Yes. If your application is denied, you can request an appeal hearing with the Office of the State Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). You'll have the opportunity to present your case directly. The ALJ may uphold the denial, but the appeal process exists for a reason — if you believe your circumstances warrant a second look, it's worth pursuing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a criminal record automatically disqualify me from a Georgia real estate license?

No. GREC reviews each application individually. The nature of the offense, how much time has passed, and your character references all factor into the decision.

What crimes are most likely to result in denial?

Most felonies carry significant denial risk. Misdemeanors involving moral turpitude — including forgery, embezzlement, theft, and extortion — are also commonly cited reasons for denial.

Can I find out if I'm eligible before spending money on pre-licensing?

Yes. You can submit a Background Clearance Application to GREC before enrolling in any courses or paying any exam fees. GREC will complete their review and notify you of your eligibility.

Do I have to disclose a conviction that was expunged?

Yes. Georgia requires disclosure of all criminal history, including expunged convictions, pardoned offenses, and first offender sentences. Non-disclosure is treated more harshly than the underlying offense.

What if my application is denied?

You can appeal to the Office of the State Administrative Law Judge. If denied again, you may reapply after the applicable waiting period has passed.

Ready to take the next step? Learn more about how to get your Georgia real estate licenseGeorgia How To Get Georgia Real Estate License Career Center and what to expect throughout the process. When you're ready to enroll, AceableAgent's Georgia real estate license courseGeorgia Real Estate License is GREC-approved and fully online. You've got this.