Alabama Real Estate License

Realtors in the United States share certain characteristics, such as an aptitude for sales and effective customer service. While realtor codes of ethic are governed across state borders, each state has unique licensing requirements for real estate agents. The following information is designed or those interested in pursuing a career in the real estate industry in Alabama. Governed by the Alabama Real Estate Commission (AREC), realtors in Alabama must adhere to specific guidelines laid out by the organization. Those wondering how to get a real estate license or become agents in the state of Alabama should use this article as a springboard to learn more about the industry and its requirements.

Basic Prerequisites
If a person is not already a licensed realtor in a different state, then he or she should meet the following prerequisites before becoming a salesperson, according to the AREC:

  • Be a citizen of the U.S. or legal resident
  • Be 19 years of age or older
  • Provide proof of residency in a U.S. state
  • Hold a high school diploma or GED
  • Be innocent of a felony conviction “or a crime involving moral turpitude”
  • Not have had an application or license for real estate rejected or revoked within the last two years, in any state
  • Pass the state licensing exam once educational requirements have been met

Training & Education
Would-be realtors in the state of Alabama must complete minimum education requirements as follows:

  • Complete a 60 hour prelicense course
  • Pass the state exam within 12 months of completing the prelicense course
  • Complete 30 hours of post-license training within 12 months of obtaining a license

Candidates who fail to complete the required testing in the given time frame must retake the courses. Once candidates have completed the post-licensing training, they will be awarded a permanent license (also called an original license). While applicants have twelve months to take the post-license training course, they must have a permanent license in hand within six months to be considered an active realtor in the state of Alabama.

Additional Information
For detailed information on specific requirements, including nonresident affidavits and other minute details, people wishing to pursue a career in real estate in Alabama should visit the website for the Association of Real Estate License Law Officials (ARELLO), which is the governing body for all real estate regulations nationally and internationally. Their comprehensive list of regulations is broken down by state to ensure maximum clarity. However, here are some basic pieces of specific information to start:

  • Real estate licensing courses must be accredited by AREC, but classes may be taken online, via distance learning or in person.
  • AREC maintains a searchable list of accredited programs and course requirements for licensure on its website.
  • Fees for prelicensure courses vary depending on type, setting and instructors, but candidates should expect to pay around $400 for a complete course.

These requirements apply to those specifically seeking to sell real estate. Similar requirements apply for those interested in a broker license. If a person already holds a real estate license in a different state, then he or she would follow separate guidelines for obtaining a reciprocal license. Applicants for a real estate license in Alabama should adhere to the above guidelines and other restrictions as outlined by the AREC. ARELLLO and the National Association of Realtors (NAR) also offers excellent education and regulatory information for potential realtors.

Resources:
http://www.benporterschoolofrealestate.com/huntsville-al-real-estate-school-faq.cfm#Answer6
http://www.realestateexpress.com/prelicense/al/alabama-real-estate-license-requirements.asp
http://www.realestateexpress.com/prelicense/al/prelicense_info.asp
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/real_estate_license/Alabama.asp

[social_share show_share_icon="yes"]