New York Real Estate License Cost: Complete Fee Breakdown
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Getting a New York real estate license costs between $369 and $571, depending on which pre-licensing course provider you choose. This total includes your 77-hour pre-licensing course ($269–$450), state licensing exam ($15), license application fee ($50), and fingerprinting/background check ($35–$56). The main cost variable is your course provider—all other fees are set by New York state.
| Cost Component | Price Range | Required | When You'll Pay This |
|---|---|---|---|
| 77-Hour Pre-Licensing Course | $269–$450 | Yes | First (before anything else) |
| State Exam Fee | $15 | Yes | After course completion |
| License Application Fee | $50 | Yes | After passing exam |
| Fingerprinting/Background Check | $35–$56 | Yes | After passing exam |
| Total to Get Licensed | $369–$571 | Est. 4-8 weeks from start to licensed |
Pre-Licensing Course Cost: $269–$450
New York requires 77 hours of approved pre-licensing education before you can take the state exam. Course prices vary based on format, included materials, and provider support.
What affects pricing:
Format: Online courses ($269–$350) cost less than in-person classes ($350–$450)
What's included: Higher-priced courses often bundle exam prep materials, practice tests, and post-licensing education
Pass rate support: Providers with stronger pass rates may offer money-back guarantees
Most students complete the 77-hour course in 2–4 weeks studying part-time (10–15 hours per week). New York does not impose a completion deadline.
AceableAgent's course costs $269 and includes unlimited practice exams, exam prep materials, mobile access, and a money-back guarantee: If you don't pass the licensing exam after three attempts, we refund your course fee. Additional terms and conditions apply.
State Licensing Exam Fee: $15 Per Attempt
The New York salesperson exam costs $15 per attempt through PSI, the state's testing provider. The exam contains 75 multiple-choice questions, and you need 70% (53 correct answers) to pass.
New York's first-time pass rate is approximately 70%, meaning about 30% of test-takers retake at least once. There's no mandatory waiting period between attempts—you can retake immediately by paying another $15 fee.
License Application Fee: $50
After passing your exam, you apply for your license through New York's eAccessNY system. The application fee is $50 (non-refundable) and processing takes 2–4 weeks once all requirements are submitted.
Fingerprinting and Background Check: $35–$56
New York requires a criminal background check through IdentoGO. Fees vary by processing speed:
Standard: $35–$45
Expedited: $50–$56
Find locations at identogo.com. Appointments take 10–15 minutes, and results are sent to the state within 3–5 business days.
Post-Licensing Costs
Getting licensed is just the start. Here's what you'll pay to maintain your license:
License renewal: $150 every 2 years
Continuing education: $50–$200 per renewal cycle (22.5 hours required)
Brokerage fees: Desk fees ($200–$1,000/month), transaction fees ($200–$500 per deal), technology fees ($25–$100/month)
MLS access: $300–$600/year depending on region
How New York Compares to Other States
| State | Total Cost | Course Hours |
|---|---|---|
| New York | $369–$571 | 77 hours |
| California | $400–$650 | 135 hours |
| Texas | $500–$800 | 180 hours |
| Florida | $300–$550 | 63 hours |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get financial aid for my real estate course?
Real estate courses don't typically qualify for federal financial aid, but many providers offer payment plans or discounts. AceableAgent offers monthly installments with no credit check.
Are there hidden fees?
All state-required fees are listed above. Be prepared for brokerage fees, MLS dues, and business expenses once you start working.
What if I fail the exam multiple times?
You can retake as many times as needed at $15 per attempt. With AceableAgent, if you don't pass after three attempts, you're eligible for a full refund (terms and conditions apply).
How long to break even on my investment?
Most agents recoup licensing costs after 1–2 deals. One transaction can cover your entire investment.
Ready to Get Started?
At $369–$571 total, getting your New York real estate license is an affordable investment in a flexible, rewarding career. AceableAgent's course includes everything you need to pass: mobile-friendly lessons, unlimited practice tests, and a money-back guarantee.