Becoming a licensed real estate broker in Georgia is a substantial career progression, moving beyond the role of a salesperson to a position of leadership and independent practice. This transition is governed by a rigorous, multi-step process established by the Georgia Real Estate Commission (GREC). The process ensures that those who supervise others and manage brokerage operations possess a high level of experience and competency. Obtaining this designation requires satisfying strict prerequisites, completing advanced education, passing a comprehensive state examination, and fulfilling detailed application requirements.
The Difference Between an Agent and a Broker
The primary distinction between a real estate salesperson (agent) and a broker lies in their legal capacity and scope of practice. A salesperson must be affiliated with and work under the direct supervision of a licensed broker or brokerage firm. Salespersons cannot operate independently, hold client funds in trust, or hire other licensees.
A broker is authorized to operate independently and establish their own brokerage firm. They assume the full legal and fiduciary responsibility for all transactions. This designation allows the broker to hire and manage associate brokers and salespersons, effectively becoming the Qualifying Broker responsible for the firm’s compliance. The broker designation carries increased liability, managerial obligation, and regulatory oversight compared to the salesperson license.
Meet the Initial Experience and Education Prerequisites
GREC mandates that applicants demonstrate substantial, verifiable experience before being considered for a broker license. An individual must have held an active real estate salesperson or associate broker license for a minimum of three of the five years immediately preceding the application date. This experience must be documented and active, meaning the licensee was continuously engaged in real estate activities under a sponsoring broker.
Applicants must also meet specific baseline requirements regarding age and fundamental education. Candidates must be at least 21 years old when the license is issued. Furthermore, the applicant must possess either a high school diploma or a recognized certificate of equivalency, such as a GED certificate.
Complete the Required Broker Pre-License Coursework
Once the experience prerequisites are satisfied, the next step involves completing the advanced educational requirements set forth by GREC. The state mandates the successful completion of a 60-hour Broker Pre-License Course. This specialized curriculum builds upon foundational knowledge and focuses on topics relevant to brokerage management.
The coursework covers subjects such as conducting loan closings, managing brokerage operations, trust accounting, and the supervision of associate licensees. This course must be taken through a real estate school or provider officially approved by GREC. The course concludes with a proctored final examination, which the candidate must pass to receive a certificate of completion.
Pass the Georgia Broker Licensing Examination
After finishing the pre-license coursework, candidates must register to pass the state-mandated Georgia Broker Licensing Examination, administered by the third-party vendor, PSI. This examination is distinct from the salesperson exam, utilizing a complex simulation-based format rather than standard multiple-choice questions.
The broker exam is composed of two main parts: a national section and a state law section. The national portion is structured around 11 situational simulations. The state-specific part contains an additional four simulations that test knowledge of Georgia law and practice.
Passing the exam is determined by achieving a Minimum Passing Level (MPL) on the simulations. Candidates typically have one year after completing the pre-license course to successfully pass the examination. The exam fee, generally $121, must be paid upon registration.
Once the exam is passed, the candidate receives a score report and a Certificate of Accuracy. These documents are necessary for the final license application.
Submit the Official License Application and Background Check
The final stage of the licensing process is submitting a comprehensive application packet to the Georgia Real Estate Commission. This step requires the collection and timely submission of several official documents, verifying that the candidate meets all statutory requirements. The application must include proof of age, the official course completion certificate, and the Certificate of Accuracy confirming the passing score on the state exam.
A mandatory component of the application is the criminal history background check, necessary to confirm the applicant’s reputation for honesty and integrity. Georgia residents must provide a certified criminal history report from the Georgia Crime Information Center (GCIC). This report must be issued no more than 60 days prior to the license application submission. The Commission reviews this report, along with a notarized Lawful Presence Verification document, to ensure the moral character requirement for licensure is met.
Understanding Post-Licensing Requirements and Renewals
Maintaining an active Georgia broker license requires ongoing compliance with continuing education (CE) and timely renewal requirements. Broker licenses operate on a four-year renewal cycle. Licensees must complete a total of 36 hours of GREC-approved CE during each cycle to stay current with evolving real estate law and professional standards.
Of the required 36 hours, a minimum of three hours must cover Georgia Real Estate License Law. Starting July 1, 2025, an additional 18 hours must be dedicated to Broker education topics, such as management and supervision. Failure to complete the required CE hours before the renewal deadline can result in the license lapsing, requiring penalties or additional education to reactivate the status.
Scope of Practice and Operational Requirements for Brokers
Achieving a broker license grants the authority to move beyond working as an associate and assume the responsibilities of an independent operator. A broker can establish and manage their own real estate firm, which includes filing a firm registration with GREC. This registration is necessary to legally conduct business in the firm’s name.
Brokers operating a firm must comply with specific operational mandates. These include maintaining a designated trust account for holding client funds, such as earnest money deposits. The broker of record is solely responsible for supervising all affiliated salespersons and associate brokers within the firm. This oversight includes reviewing advertising for compliance, ensuring proper handling of contracts, and creating a written policies and procedures manual.