Real Estate Broker / District of Columbia
2026 data District of Columbia board official source

District of Columbia Real Estate Broker License Requirements

Official regulator records behind the requirements, fees, and renewal cycle for this license.

Manages real estate transactions and may employ real estate agents.

What the District of Columbia data shows for Real Estate Brokers

Becoming a licensed real estate broker in District of Columbia means clearing a defined set of hurdles: 180 training hours, a passing score on State Real Estate Broker Exam, and 2 years of supervised work experience, plus a background history check once the applicant turns 18. District of Columbia regulators place this credential inside their licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Broker Pre-License Coursework".

Upfront cost is $251, with renewal running $208 on a 2-year cycle. Renewal isn't the end of the cost: 16 hours of continuing education are due every 2-year cycle, a recurring time commitment worth planning for.

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

Licensing Requirements in District of Columbia

Education / Training Hours
Broker Pre-License Coursework
180 hours
Exam Requirement
State Real Estate Broker Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$251
Renewal Fee
$208
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
16 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Work Experience Required
2 years
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with District of Columbia licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Real Estate Broker in District of Columbia?
In District of Columbia, the license path calls for 180 education/training hours, a passing score on State Real Estate Broker Exam, and a $251 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Real Estate Broker in District of Columbia?
Certification as a real estate broker in District of Columbia means clearing the state's checklist: 180 hours of education plus 2 years of work experience, and a passing exam score. The District of Columbia licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Real Estate Broker license to District of Columbia from another state?
Here's how reciprocity typically plays out for real estate brokers: Reciprocal agreements vary significantly by state. Many occupations are additionally covered by interstate licensing compacts that ease cross-state moves. Check with the District of Columbia licensing board for how this applies to you.
Does District of Columbia require a background check for Real Estate Broker licensing?
District of Columbia does require a background check before issuing a real estate broker license. What counts as disqualifying, and how it's reviewed, is up to the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Real Estate Broker in District of Columbia?
To stay licensed as a real estate broker in District of Columbia, plan on 16 hours of continuing education per 2-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $208.

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