2026 data Maryland board official source

Maryland Real Estate Agent / Salesperson License Requirements

What the state board actually requires: fees, renewal cycle, and requirements from official records.

Assists clients in buying, selling, and renting properties.

What the Maryland data shows for Real Estate Agent / Salespersons

Becoming a licensed real estate agent / salesperson in Maryland means clearing a defined set of hurdles: 133 training hours, a passing score on State Real Estate Salesperson Exam, plus a background history check once the applicant turns 18. Maryland regulators place this credential inside their licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Pre-License Coursework".

Budget $90 to get started, plus $90 at each renewal on a 2-year cycle; processing typically runs about 3 weeks once your application is complete. Maintaining the license requires 15 hours of continuing education per 2-year cycle, an ongoing cost applicants often underestimate when budgeting the career.

Reciprocity for this profession works like this: Reciprocal agreements vary significantly by state.

Licensing Requirements in Maryland

Education / Training Hours
Pre-License Coursework
133 hours
Exam Requirement
State Real Estate Salesperson Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$209
Renewal Fee
$172
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
12 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years

Cost & Timeline

Initial License Fee
Application + first-year license
$90
Renewal Fee
Every 2 years
$90
Processing Time
After complete application submitted
3 wks
Continuing Education
Per 2-year renewal cycle
15 hrs
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Maryland licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Real Estate Agent / Salesperson in Maryland?
Maryland requires 133 education/training hours, passing an exam (State Real Estate Salesperson Exam), and an initial fee of $209. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Real Estate Agent / Salesperson in Maryland?
To become a licensed real estate agent / salesperson in Maryland, you must meet the state's requirements including 133 hours of education. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the Maryland licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Real Estate Agent / Salesperson license to Maryland from another state?
For real estate agent / salespersons, the reciprocity landscape looks like this: Reciprocal agreements vary significantly by state. Many professions are also covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability between states. Contact the Maryland licensing board to confirm how it applies to your specific credential.
Does Maryland require a background check for Real Estate Agent / Salesperson licensing?
Background screening is part of the real estate agent / salesperson licensing process in Maryland. The state licensing board determines which offenses disqualify an applicant and how appeals are handled.
What are the continuing education requirements for Real Estate Agent / Salesperson in Maryland?
Licensed real estate agent / salespersons in Maryland must complete 12 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $172.
How much does it cost to get a Real Estate Agent / Salesperson license in Maryland?
The initial licensing fee in Maryland is $90. The renewal fee is $90 every 2 years. Processing typically takes 3 weeks after submitting your complete application.
How long does Real Estate Agent / Salesperson license processing take in Maryland?
In Maryland, license processing for real estate agent / salespersons typically takes approximately 3 weeks after your complete application is submitted. Processing times may vary based on application volume and completeness of documentation.

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites