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District of Columbia Real Estate Broker — Requirements & Free Practice

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Associate Real Estate Broker

A person licensed as a broker who is employed by a broker or licensed entity and is not its partner, officer, or principal broker.

Licensing authority: District of Columbia Real Estate Commission · Application information

Reactivation after five or more inactive years with Board excuse
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board exception
The Board determines that the failure to renew during the five-year inactive period resulted from reasonable cause or excusable neglect; absent that determination the applicant must meet current initial licensure requirements.
Continuing education
Comply with applicable Commission continuing education: the broker rule requires 15 hours per two-year cycle, including nine mandated, three property management, and three broker supervision hours; the first renewal of a license granted by examination is exempt (17 DCMR 2605.1 and 2605.3).
Documentation
Submit course-completion certification as prescribed by 17 DCMR 2605.6.
Good standing
Maintain renewal eligibility and comply with restrictions on licenses subject to an active suspension.
Reactivation
Comply with applicable continuing education, renewal requirements, reactivation fees and any Fund assessment.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement within five years after expiration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Additional training
The Board may impose additional education or training before or after reinstatement; comply with all continuing education arrears under 17 DCMR 2605.7.
Continuing education
Comply with applicable Commission continuing education: the broker rule requires 15 hours per two-year cycle, including nine mandated, three property management, and three broker supervision hours; the first renewal of a license granted by examination is exempt (17 DCMR 2605.1 and 2605.3).
Documentation
Submit course-completion certification as prescribed by 17 DCMR 2605.6.
Expired period
Apply within five years after expiration, using the prescribed reinstatement application and fees and any current Fund assessment.
Fitness
Submit satisfactory evidence of competency, knowledge of District and federal law and fitness to resume practice without harm to the public or profession; the Board considers practice history, time away, violations, character and current competence.
Good standing
Maintain renewal eligibility and comply with restrictions on licenses subject to an active suspension.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Restoration after delinquent Fund assessment
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Assessment default
License suspended for failure to pay a Fund replenishment assessment; pay the delinquent assessment, six percent interest calculated from its due date and the fifty-dollar penalty.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Restoration after repayment of a Fund claim
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Fund claim
License suspended pending repayment of a Fund claim; repay the full amount ordered paid from the Fund and six percent interest per annum, and satisfy applicable disciplinary reinstatement terms.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Placement of an existing license on inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing license
Holder of an existing District license applies for inactive status and pays the prescribed inactive fee.
Inactive duration
Five or more years generally triggers new-applicant requirements unless reasonable cause or excusable neglect is accepted. Rule 2612.4 exempts qualifying government employees from its inactivity cap; controlling statutory reactivation requirements still apply.
Practice prohibition
No practice, attempted practice, or offer to practice while inactive; no renewal fee applies.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Late renewal within sixty days
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Comply with applicable Commission continuing education: the broker rule requires 15 hours per two-year cycle, including nine mandated, three property management, and three broker supervision hours; the first renewal of a license granted by examination is exempt (17 DCMR 2605.1 and 2605.3).
Documentation
Submit course-completion certification as prescribed by 17 DCMR 2605.6.
Good standing
Maintain renewal eligibility and comply with restrictions on licenses subject to an active suspension.
Late window
Within sixty days after expiration, submit renewal application, required continuing education proof, renewal fee and late fee; upon renewal the intervening period is deemed licensed. A good-cause extension of the education-proof period may be granted under 17 DCMR 2605.10.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

New application after more than five expired years
Application
Submit the prescribed application, business and residence street addresses, required documents and fees; authenticate the application as authorized by 17 DCMR 2601.1–2601.2.
Associate affiliation
After meeting current broker licensure requirements, obtain associate status through the written request and qualifying employment required by D.C. Code § 47-2853.182 and 17 DCMR 2700.
Broker education
135 clock hours of Commission-approved broker pre-license education, subject to an applicable approved waiver (17 DCMR 2601.3).
Broker experience
Two immediately preceding years actively licensed as a broker or salesperson in the District or elsewhere, or equivalent experience accepted by the Commission; documentation and qualifying equivalent-experience capacities follow 17 DCMR 2601.7–2601.9.
Criminal eligibility
Occupationally related convictions are evaluated under D.C. Code §§ 47-2853.12(a)(1) and 47-2853.17(c-1), including its exclusions and rehabilitation factors; the Board determines eligibility.
English
Able to read, write, and understand English (17 DCMR 2610.5).
Implementation experience
The PSI bulletin, printed page 1, states that broker applicants must first hold a salesperson license and have two years of salesperson experience; the statutory and rule equivalent-experience alternative remains available.
License denial
No real estate license denial other than examination failure within the preceding year (17 DCMR 2610.6).
License revocation
No qualifying real estate license revocation within three years, subject to controlling statutory provisions and the Board order (17 DCMR 2610.8).
License suspension
An effective license suspension prevents renewal; initial eligibility also requires compliance with D.C. Code § 47-2853.172(6).
Minimum age
At least 18 years of age (17 DCMR 2610.1 and D.C. Code § 47-2853.12(a)(2)).
Partial retake
PSI permits retaking only the failed portion; a failed portion must be passed within six months of the first examination attempt (bulletin, printed page 3).
Previous license
Expired for more than five years and therefore ineligible for reinstatement; current initial licensure requirements apply.
Salesperson qualification
Establish satisfaction of the salesperson licensure requirements incorporated by D.C. Code § 47-2853.162(1) and 17 DCMR 2601.6; existing licensure and qualification evidence are applicant conditions.
School completion
High school graduate or holder of a high school equivalency certificate (17 DCMR 2610.4).
Score and filing window
Pass with at least 75; apply and pay the prescribed fee within six months of passing, or retake the examination (17 DCMR 2601.4–2601.5).
New application after five or more inactive years
Application
Submit the prescribed application, business and residence street addresses, required documents and fees; authenticate the application as authorized by 17 DCMR 2601.1–2601.2.
Associate affiliation
After meeting current broker licensure requirements, obtain associate status through the written request and qualifying employment required by D.C. Code § 47-2853.182 and 17 DCMR 2700.
Broker education
135 clock hours of Commission-approved broker pre-license education, subject to an applicable approved waiver (17 DCMR 2601.3).
Broker experience
Two immediately preceding years actively licensed as a broker or salesperson in the District or elsewhere, or equivalent experience accepted by the Commission; documentation and qualifying equivalent-experience capacities follow 17 DCMR 2601.7–2601.9.
Criminal eligibility
Occupationally related convictions are evaluated under D.C. Code §§ 47-2853.12(a)(1) and 47-2853.17(c-1), including its exclusions and rehabilitation factors; the Board determines eligibility.
English
Able to read, write, and understand English (17 DCMR 2610.5).
Implementation experience
The PSI bulletin, printed page 1, states that broker applicants must first hold a salesperson license and have two years of salesperson experience; the statutory and rule equivalent-experience alternative remains available.
License denial
No real estate license denial other than examination failure within the preceding year (17 DCMR 2610.6).
License revocation
No qualifying real estate license revocation within three years, subject to controlling statutory provisions and the Board order (17 DCMR 2610.8).
License suspension
An effective license suspension prevents renewal; initial eligibility also requires compliance with D.C. Code § 47-2853.172(6).
Minimum age
At least 18 years of age (17 DCMR 2610.1 and D.C. Code § 47-2853.12(a)(2)).
Partial retake
PSI permits retaking only the failed portion; a failed portion must be passed within six months of the first examination attempt (bulletin, printed page 3).
Previous license
Inactive for at least five years without an accepted reasonable-cause or excusable-neglect exception.
Salesperson qualification
Establish satisfaction of the salesperson licensure requirements incorporated by D.C. Code § 47-2853.162(1) and 17 DCMR 2601.6; existing licensure and qualification evidence are applicant conditions.
School completion
High school graduate or holder of a high school equivalency certificate (17 DCMR 2610.4).
Score and filing window
Pass with at least 75; apply and pay the prescribed fee within six months of passing, or retake the examination (17 DCMR 2601.4–2601.5).
Reactivation after less than five years inactive
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Comply with applicable Commission continuing education: the broker rule requires 15 hours per two-year cycle, including nine mandated, three property management, and three broker supervision hours; the first renewal of a license granted by examination is exempt (17 DCMR 2605.1 and 2605.3).
Documentation
Submit course-completion certification as prescribed by 17 DCMR 2605.6.
Education arrears
Provide continuing education proof required for inactive license renewal under 17 DCMR 2605.7 and meet all current renewal requirements.
Fees
Pay reactivation fees and any current Fund assessment.
Good standing
Maintain renewal eligibility and comply with restrictions on licenses subject to an active suspension.
Inactive period
Inactive for less than five years.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal of an existing license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit timely renewal application and fees, meet current renewal requirements, and provide a residence street address if an individual.
Continuing education
Comply with applicable Commission continuing education: the broker rule requires 15 hours per two-year cycle, including nine mandated, three property management, and three broker supervision hours; the first renewal of a license granted by examination is exempt (17 DCMR 2605.1 and 2605.3).
Documentation
Submit course-completion certification as prescribed by 17 DCMR 2605.6.
Good standing
Maintain renewal eligibility and comply with restrictions on licenses subject to an active suspension.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement of a revoked license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Comply with applicable Commission continuing education: the broker rule requires 15 hours per two-year cycle, including nine mandated, three property management, and three broker supervision hours; the first renewal of a license granted by examination is exempt (17 DCMR 2605.1 and 2605.3).
Disciplinary order
Reinstatement is governed by the suspension/revocation order or final reviewing judgment under D.C. Code § 47-2853.24; no uniform named examination is prescribed by the published reinstatement rule. A case-specific remediation order may require reexamination in the Board-prescribed manner under § 47-2853.17(c)(6), which is an applicant condition.
Documentation
Submit course-completion certification as prescribed by 17 DCMR 2605.6.
Eligibility wait
For a revoked license, generally wait three years unless the controlling statute or order provides otherwise; a denied reinstatement application carries a one-year bar.
Fitness
Submit evidence of moral qualifications, competency and knowledge of District and federal laws; complete applicable continuing education and any Board-required education or training.
Fund repayment
If applicable, repay the full Fund claim with six percent annual interest, comply with fines and relevant reinstatement conditions.
Good standing
Maintain renewal eligibility and comply with restrictions on licenses subject to an active suspension.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Change from broker to associate broker
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Current broker license
Applicant already holds a District broker license; employment must meet D.C. Code § 47-2853.182(d), excluding partners, officers, and principal brokers.
Status request
Submit the prescribed written request and fees; notify the Board by certified mail. The new license reflects the status and retains the existing expiration date.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement of a suspended license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Comply with applicable Commission continuing education: the broker rule requires 15 hours per two-year cycle, including nine mandated, three property management, and three broker supervision hours; the first renewal of a license granted by examination is exempt (17 DCMR 2605.1 and 2605.3).
Disciplinary order
Reinstatement is governed by the suspension/revocation order or final reviewing judgment under D.C. Code § 47-2853.24; no uniform named examination is prescribed by the published reinstatement rule. A case-specific remediation order may require reexamination in the Board-prescribed manner under § 47-2853.17(c)(6), which is an applicant condition.
Documentation
Submit course-completion certification as prescribed by 17 DCMR 2605.6.
Eligibility wait
Comply with the suspension order and any applicable eligibility period; a denied reinstatement application carries a one-year bar.
Fitness
Submit evidence of moral qualifications, competency and knowledge of District and federal laws; complete applicable continuing education and any Board-required education or training.
Fund repayment
If applicable, repay the full Fund claim with six percent annual interest, comply with fines and relevant reinstatement conditions.
Good standing
Maintain renewal eligibility and comply with restrictions on licenses subject to an active suspension.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Real Estate Broker

Individual broker licensure, including status changes and license maintenance.

Licensing authority: District of Columbia Real Estate Commission · Application information

Licensure by endorsement
Application
Submit the prescribed application, business and residence street addresses, required documents and fees; authenticate the application as authorized by 17 DCMR 2601.1–2601.2.
Broker education
135 clock hours of Commission-approved broker pre-license education, subject to an applicable approved waiver (17 DCMR 2601.3).
Broker experience
Two immediately preceding years actively licensed as a broker or salesperson in the District or elsewhere, or equivalent experience accepted by the Commission; documentation and qualifying equivalent-experience capacities follow 17 DCMR 2601.7–2601.9.
Criminal eligibility
Occupationally related convictions are evaluated under D.C. Code §§ 47-2853.12(a)(1) and 47-2853.17(c-1), including its exclusions and rehabilitation factors; the Board determines eligibility.
Dc fair housing
Complete a Commission-approved DC Fair Housing course; the PSI bulletin specifies three hours.
Dc property management
Complete a Commission-approved property-management course (17 DCMR 2601.10(c)).
Endorsement review
Submit the certification letter, continuing education certificates for the last two years, professional resume or biography, and description of pre-licensing study. The Commission reviews the completed application and advises of additional requirements if endorsement eligibility is not established.
English
Able to read, write, and understand English (17 DCMR 2610.5).
Existing license
Current broker licensure in a jurisdiction other than Maryland or Virginia under the PSI endorsement procedure; the Commission evaluates substantial equivalence.
Implementation experience
The PSI bulletin, printed page 1, states that broker applicants must first hold a salesperson license and have two years of salesperson experience; the statutory and rule equivalent-experience alternative remains available.
License certification
Provide originals or notarized proof under 17 DCMR 2611; the PSI bulletin requires an original licensing-jurisdiction certification dated within 90 days.
License denial
No real estate license denial other than examination failure within the preceding year (17 DCMR 2610.6).
License revocation
No qualifying real estate license revocation within three years, subject to controlling statutory provisions and the Board order (17 DCMR 2610.8).
License suspension
An effective license suspension prevents renewal; initial eligibility also requires compliance with D.C. Code § 47-2853.172(6).
Minimum age
At least 18 years of age (17 DCMR 2610.1 and D.C. Code § 47-2853.12(a)(2)).
National waiver
The PSI bulletin states that endorsement applicants may waive the national portion if original examination standards, including scoring, were substantially equivalent. The national leaf remains because the contract records applicant waivers as conditions; approved applicants are instructed to request the state examination only.
Partial retake
PSI permits retaking only the failed portion; a failed portion must be passed within six months of the first examination attempt (bulletin, printed page 3).
Salesperson qualification
Establish satisfaction of the salesperson licensure requirements incorporated by D.C. Code § 47-2853.162(1) and 17 DCMR 2601.6; existing licensure and qualification evidence are applicant conditions.
School completion
High school graduate or holder of a high school equivalency certificate (17 DCMR 2610.4).
Score and filing window
Pass with at least 75; apply and pay the prescribed fee within six months of passing, or retake the examination (17 DCMR 2601.4–2601.5).
Initial licensure with Board approved foreign qualifications
Application
Submit the prescribed application, business and residence street addresses, required documents and fees; authenticate the application as authorized by 17 DCMR 2601.1–2601.2.
Broker education
135 clock hours of Commission-approved broker pre-license education, subject to an applicable approved waiver (17 DCMR 2601.3).
Broker experience
Two immediately preceding years actively licensed as a broker or salesperson in the District or elsewhere, or equivalent experience accepted by the Commission; documentation and qualifying equivalent-experience capacities follow 17 DCMR 2601.7–2601.9.
Criminal eligibility
Occupationally related convictions are evaluated under D.C. Code §§ 47-2853.12(a)(1) and 47-2853.17(c-1), including its exclusions and rehabilitation factors; the Board determines eligibility.
English
Able to read, write, and understand English (17 DCMR 2610.5).
Foreign qualification
The Mayor may accept education and training completed in a foreign institution or substantially similar foreign professional licensure if the Board finds the foreign requirements substantially equivalent when received; the applicant must otherwise meet District requirements, including required examinations (D.C. Code § 47-2853.12(g)).
Implementation experience
The PSI bulletin, printed page 1, states that broker applicants must first hold a salesperson license and have two years of salesperson experience; the statutory and rule equivalent-experience alternative remains available.
License denial
No real estate license denial other than examination failure within the preceding year (17 DCMR 2610.6).
License revocation
No qualifying real estate license revocation within three years, subject to controlling statutory provisions and the Board order (17 DCMR 2610.8).
License suspension
An effective license suspension prevents renewal; initial eligibility also requires compliance with D.C. Code § 47-2853.172(6).
Minimum age
At least 18 years of age (17 DCMR 2610.1 and D.C. Code § 47-2853.12(a)(2)).
Partial retake
PSI permits retaking only the failed portion; a failed portion must be passed within six months of the first examination attempt (bulletin, printed page 3).
Salesperson qualification
Establish satisfaction of the salesperson licensure requirements incorporated by D.C. Code § 47-2853.162(1) and 17 DCMR 2601.6; existing licensure and qualification evidence are applicant conditions.
School completion
High school graduate or holder of a high school equivalency certificate (17 DCMR 2610.4).
Score and filing window
Pass with at least 75; apply and pay the prescribed fee within six months of passing, or retake the examination (17 DCMR 2601.4–2601.5).
Duplicate license for an additional branch office
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Branch
Obtain and display a duplicate license for each branch, pay the required fee, and comply with branch management requirements.
Current license
An existing licensed broker maintains more than one District place of business.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reactivation after five or more inactive years with Board excuse
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board exception
The Board determines that the failure to renew during the five-year inactive period resulted from reasonable cause or excusable neglect; absent that determination the applicant must meet current initial licensure requirements.
Continuing education
Comply with applicable Commission continuing education: the broker rule requires 15 hours per two-year cycle, including nine mandated, three property management, and three broker supervision hours; the first renewal of a license granted by examination is exempt (17 DCMR 2605.1 and 2605.3).
Documentation
Submit course-completion certification as prescribed by 17 DCMR 2605.6.
Good standing
Maintain renewal eligibility and comply with restrictions on licenses subject to an active suspension.
Reactivation
Comply with applicable continuing education, renewal requirements, reactivation fees and any Fund assessment.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement within five years after expiration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Additional training
The Board may impose additional education or training before or after reinstatement; comply with all continuing education arrears under 17 DCMR 2605.7.
Continuing education
Comply with applicable Commission continuing education: the broker rule requires 15 hours per two-year cycle, including nine mandated, three property management, and three broker supervision hours; the first renewal of a license granted by examination is exempt (17 DCMR 2605.1 and 2605.3).
Documentation
Submit course-completion certification as prescribed by 17 DCMR 2605.6.
Expired period
Apply within five years after expiration, using the prescribed reinstatement application and fees and any current Fund assessment.
Fitness
Submit satisfactory evidence of competency, knowledge of District and federal law and fitness to resume practice without harm to the public or profession; the Board considers practice history, time away, violations, character and current competence.
Good standing
Maintain renewal eligibility and comply with restrictions on licenses subject to an active suspension.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Restoration after delinquent Fund assessment
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Assessment default
License suspended for failure to pay a Fund replenishment assessment; pay the delinquent assessment, six percent interest calculated from its due date and the fifty-dollar penalty.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Restoration after repayment of a Fund claim
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Fund claim
License suspended pending repayment of a Fund claim; repay the full amount ordered paid from the Fund and six percent interest per annum, and satisfy applicable disciplinary reinstatement terms.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Placement of an existing license on inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing license
Holder of an existing District license applies for inactive status and pays the prescribed inactive fee.
Inactive duration
Five or more years generally triggers new-applicant requirements unless reasonable cause or excusable neglect is accepted. Rule 2612.4 exempts qualifying government employees from its inactivity cap; controlling statutory reactivation requirements still apply.
Practice prohibition
No practice, attempted practice, or offer to practice while inactive; no renewal fee applies.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Late renewal within sixty days
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Comply with applicable Commission continuing education: the broker rule requires 15 hours per two-year cycle, including nine mandated, three property management, and three broker supervision hours; the first renewal of a license granted by examination is exempt (17 DCMR 2605.1 and 2605.3).
Documentation
Submit course-completion certification as prescribed by 17 DCMR 2605.6.
Good standing
Maintain renewal eligibility and comply with restrictions on licenses subject to an active suspension.
Late window
Within sixty days after expiration, submit renewal application, required continuing education proof, renewal fee and late fee; upon renewal the intervening period is deemed licensed. A good-cause extension of the education-proof period may be granted under 17 DCMR 2605.10.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

New application after more than five expired years
Application
Submit the prescribed application, business and residence street addresses, required documents and fees; authenticate the application as authorized by 17 DCMR 2601.1–2601.2.
Broker education
135 clock hours of Commission-approved broker pre-license education, subject to an applicable approved waiver (17 DCMR 2601.3).
Broker experience
Two immediately preceding years actively licensed as a broker or salesperson in the District or elsewhere, or equivalent experience accepted by the Commission; documentation and qualifying equivalent-experience capacities follow 17 DCMR 2601.7–2601.9.
Criminal eligibility
Occupationally related convictions are evaluated under D.C. Code §§ 47-2853.12(a)(1) and 47-2853.17(c-1), including its exclusions and rehabilitation factors; the Board determines eligibility.
English
Able to read, write, and understand English (17 DCMR 2610.5).
Implementation experience
The PSI bulletin, printed page 1, states that broker applicants must first hold a salesperson license and have two years of salesperson experience; the statutory and rule equivalent-experience alternative remains available.
License denial
No real estate license denial other than examination failure within the preceding year (17 DCMR 2610.6).
License revocation
No qualifying real estate license revocation within three years, subject to controlling statutory provisions and the Board order (17 DCMR 2610.8).
License suspension
An effective license suspension prevents renewal; initial eligibility also requires compliance with D.C. Code § 47-2853.172(6).
Minimum age
At least 18 years of age (17 DCMR 2610.1 and D.C. Code § 47-2853.12(a)(2)).
Partial retake
PSI permits retaking only the failed portion; a failed portion must be passed within six months of the first examination attempt (bulletin, printed page 3).
Previous license
Expired for more than five years and therefore ineligible for reinstatement; current initial licensure requirements apply.
Salesperson qualification
Establish satisfaction of the salesperson licensure requirements incorporated by D.C. Code § 47-2853.162(1) and 17 DCMR 2601.6; existing licensure and qualification evidence are applicant conditions.
School completion
High school graduate or holder of a high school equivalency certificate (17 DCMR 2610.4).
Score and filing window
Pass with at least 75; apply and pay the prescribed fee within six months of passing, or retake the examination (17 DCMR 2601.4–2601.5).
New application after five or more inactive years
Application
Submit the prescribed application, business and residence street addresses, required documents and fees; authenticate the application as authorized by 17 DCMR 2601.1–2601.2.
Broker education
135 clock hours of Commission-approved broker pre-license education, subject to an applicable approved waiver (17 DCMR 2601.3).
Broker experience
Two immediately preceding years actively licensed as a broker or salesperson in the District or elsewhere, or equivalent experience accepted by the Commission; documentation and qualifying equivalent-experience capacities follow 17 DCMR 2601.7–2601.9.
Criminal eligibility
Occupationally related convictions are evaluated under D.C. Code §§ 47-2853.12(a)(1) and 47-2853.17(c-1), including its exclusions and rehabilitation factors; the Board determines eligibility.
English
Able to read, write, and understand English (17 DCMR 2610.5).
Implementation experience
The PSI bulletin, printed page 1, states that broker applicants must first hold a salesperson license and have two years of salesperson experience; the statutory and rule equivalent-experience alternative remains available.
License denial
No real estate license denial other than examination failure within the preceding year (17 DCMR 2610.6).
License revocation
No qualifying real estate license revocation within three years, subject to controlling statutory provisions and the Board order (17 DCMR 2610.8).
License suspension
An effective license suspension prevents renewal; initial eligibility also requires compliance with D.C. Code § 47-2853.172(6).
Minimum age
At least 18 years of age (17 DCMR 2610.1 and D.C. Code § 47-2853.12(a)(2)).
Partial retake
PSI permits retaking only the failed portion; a failed portion must be passed within six months of the first examination attempt (bulletin, printed page 3).
Previous license
Inactive for at least five years without an accepted reasonable-cause or excusable-neglect exception.
Salesperson qualification
Establish satisfaction of the salesperson licensure requirements incorporated by D.C. Code § 47-2853.162(1) and 17 DCMR 2601.6; existing licensure and qualification evidence are applicant conditions.
School completion
High school graduate or holder of a high school equivalency certificate (17 DCMR 2610.4).
Score and filing window
Pass with at least 75; apply and pay the prescribed fee within six months of passing, or retake the examination (17 DCMR 2601.4–2601.5).
Reactivation after less than five years inactive
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Comply with applicable Commission continuing education: the broker rule requires 15 hours per two-year cycle, including nine mandated, three property management, and three broker supervision hours; the first renewal of a license granted by examination is exempt (17 DCMR 2605.1 and 2605.3).
Documentation
Submit course-completion certification as prescribed by 17 DCMR 2605.6.
Education arrears
Provide continuing education proof required for inactive license renewal under 17 DCMR 2605.7 and meet all current renewal requirements.
Fees
Pay reactivation fees and any current Fund assessment.
Good standing
Maintain renewal eligibility and comply with restrictions on licenses subject to an active suspension.
Inactive period
Inactive for less than five years.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reissuance after a change of business address
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing license
Existing licensed broker changes the principal business address.
Notice
Give the statutory written notice and return required licenses, pay required fees; rule 2701.5 additionally directs written notice with the relocation effective date fifteen days before relocation.
Suspension
Failure to give notice or return licenses causes suspension until compliance; reissued licenses cover the unexpired term.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal of an existing license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit timely renewal application and fees, meet current renewal requirements, and provide a residence street address if an individual.
Continuing education
Comply with applicable Commission continuing education: the broker rule requires 15 hours per two-year cycle, including nine mandated, three property management, and three broker supervision hours; the first renewal of a license granted by examination is exempt (17 DCMR 2605.1 and 2605.3).
Documentation
Submit course-completion certification as prescribed by 17 DCMR 2605.6.
Good standing
Maintain renewal eligibility and comply with restrictions on licenses subject to an active suspension.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement of a revoked license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Comply with applicable Commission continuing education: the broker rule requires 15 hours per two-year cycle, including nine mandated, three property management, and three broker supervision hours; the first renewal of a license granted by examination is exempt (17 DCMR 2605.1 and 2605.3).
Disciplinary order
Reinstatement is governed by the suspension/revocation order or final reviewing judgment under D.C. Code § 47-2853.24; no uniform named examination is prescribed by the published reinstatement rule. A case-specific remediation order may require reexamination in the Board-prescribed manner under § 47-2853.17(c)(6), which is an applicant condition.
Documentation
Submit course-completion certification as prescribed by 17 DCMR 2605.6.
Eligibility wait
For a revoked license, generally wait three years unless the controlling statute or order provides otherwise; a denied reinstatement application carries a one-year bar.
Fitness
Submit evidence of moral qualifications, competency and knowledge of District and federal laws; complete applicable continuing education and any Board-required education or training.
Fund repayment
If applicable, repay the full Fund claim with six percent annual interest, comply with fines and relevant reinstatement conditions.
Good standing
Maintain renewal eligibility and comply with restrictions on licenses subject to an active suspension.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement of a suspended license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Comply with applicable Commission continuing education: the broker rule requires 15 hours per two-year cycle, including nine mandated, three property management, and three broker supervision hours; the first renewal of a license granted by examination is exempt (17 DCMR 2605.1 and 2605.3).
Disciplinary order
Reinstatement is governed by the suspension/revocation order or final reviewing judgment under D.C. Code § 47-2853.24; no uniform named examination is prescribed by the published reinstatement rule. A case-specific remediation order may require reexamination in the Board-prescribed manner under § 47-2853.17(c)(6), which is an applicant condition.
Documentation
Submit course-completion certification as prescribed by 17 DCMR 2605.6.
Eligibility wait
Comply with the suspension order and any applicable eligibility period; a denied reinstatement application carries a one-year bar.
Fitness
Submit evidence of moral qualifications, competency and knowledge of District and federal laws; complete applicable continuing education and any Board-required education or training.
Fund repayment
If applicable, repay the full Fund claim with six percent annual interest, comply with fines and relevant reinstatement conditions.
Good standing
Maintain renewal eligibility and comply with restrictions on licenses subject to an active suspension.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial licensure by examination
Application
Submit the prescribed application, business and residence street addresses, required documents and fees; authenticate the application as authorized by 17 DCMR 2601.1–2601.2.
Broker education
135 clock hours of Commission-approved broker pre-license education, subject to an applicable approved waiver (17 DCMR 2601.3).
Broker experience
Two immediately preceding years actively licensed as a broker or salesperson in the District or elsewhere, or equivalent experience accepted by the Commission; documentation and qualifying equivalent-experience capacities follow 17 DCMR 2601.7–2601.9.
Criminal eligibility
Occupationally related convictions are evaluated under D.C. Code §§ 47-2853.12(a)(1) and 47-2853.17(c-1), including its exclusions and rehabilitation factors; the Board determines eligibility.
English
Able to read, write, and understand English (17 DCMR 2610.5).
Implementation experience
The PSI bulletin, printed page 1, states that broker applicants must first hold a salesperson license and have two years of salesperson experience; the statutory and rule equivalent-experience alternative remains available.
License denial
No real estate license denial other than examination failure within the preceding year (17 DCMR 2610.6).
License revocation
No qualifying real estate license revocation within three years, subject to controlling statutory provisions and the Board order (17 DCMR 2610.8).
License suspension
An effective license suspension prevents renewal; initial eligibility also requires compliance with D.C. Code § 47-2853.172(6).
Minimum age
At least 18 years of age (17 DCMR 2610.1 and D.C. Code § 47-2853.12(a)(2)).
Partial retake
PSI permits retaking only the failed portion; a failed portion must be passed within six months of the first examination attempt (bulletin, printed page 3).
Salesperson qualification
Establish satisfaction of the salesperson licensure requirements incorporated by D.C. Code § 47-2853.162(1) and 17 DCMR 2601.6; existing licensure and qualification evidence are applicant conditions.
School completion
High school graduate or holder of a high school equivalency certificate (17 DCMR 2610.4).
Score and filing window
Pass with at least 75; apply and pay the prescribed fee within six months of passing, or retake the examination (17 DCMR 2601.4–2601.5).
Licensure by accepted national certification with examination waiver
District of Columbia Real Estate Broker Examination — State Portion
Application
Submit the prescribed application, business and residence street addresses, required documents and fees; authenticate the application as authorized by 17 DCMR 2601.1–2601.2.
Broker education
135 clock hours of Commission-approved broker pre-license education, subject to an applicable approved waiver (17 DCMR 2601.3).
Broker experience
Two immediately preceding years actively licensed as a broker or salesperson in the District or elsewhere, or equivalent experience accepted by the Commission; documentation and qualifying equivalent-experience capacities follow 17 DCMR 2601.7–2601.9.
Criminal eligibility
Occupationally related convictions are evaluated under D.C. Code §§ 47-2853.12(a)(1) and 47-2853.17(c-1), including its exclusions and rehabilitation factors; the Board determines eligibility.
Dc fair housing
Complete a Commission-approved DC Fair Housing course; the PSI bulletin specifies three hours.
Dc property management
Complete a Commission-approved property-management course (17 DCMR 2601.10(c)).
District law discretion
Under § 47-2853.12(c)(1), the Board may still require knowledge of District law and procedures. The existing Broker DC law examination is retained; the applicant must obtain the Board’s determination of the waiver and its terms.
English
Able to read, write, and understand English (17 DCMR 2610.5).
Implementation experience
The PSI bulletin, printed page 1, states that broker applicants must first hold a salesperson license and have two years of salesperson experience; the statutory and rule equivalent-experience alternative remains available.
License certification
Provide originals or notarized proof under 17 DCMR 2611; the PSI bulletin requires an original licensing-jurisdiction certification dated within 90 days.
License denial
No real estate license denial other than examination failure within the preceding year (17 DCMR 2610.6).
License revocation
No qualifying real estate license revocation within three years, subject to controlling statutory provisions and the Board order (17 DCMR 2610.8).
License suspension
An effective license suspension prevents renewal; initial eligibility also requires compliance with D.C. Code § 47-2853.172(6).
Minimum age
At least 18 years of age (17 DCMR 2610.1 and D.C. Code § 47-2853.12(a)(2)).
National certification
Present certification by a recognized national certifying organization acceptable to the Board, with standards at certification at least as high as District standards and no discipline or disqualification (D.C. Code § 47-2853.12(b)(2)); the statute names no particular certifying examination.
National waiver
The accepted-national-certification pathway waives examination or other proof of fitness under D.C. Code § 47-2853.12(b)(2), subject to the District-law examination permitted by subsection (c)(1).
Partial retake
PSI permits retaking only the failed portion; a failed portion must be passed within six months of the first examination attempt (bulletin, printed page 3).
Salesperson qualification
Establish satisfaction of the salesperson licensure requirements incorporated by D.C. Code § 47-2853.162(1) and 17 DCMR 2601.6; existing licensure and qualification evidence are applicant conditions.
School completion
High school graduate or holder of a high school equivalency certificate (17 DCMR 2610.4).
Score and filing window
Pass with at least 75; apply and pay the prescribed fee within six months of passing, or retake the examination (17 DCMR 2601.4–2601.5).
Change to member, partner, trustee, or officer status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
File the prescribed written request and fees; the reissued license has the same expiration date and remains nontransferable.
Current license
Applicant is already licensed as a broker and requests status as member, partner, trustee, or officer of a licensed organization.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Licensure by reciprocity
District of Columbia Real Estate Broker Examination — State Portion
Application
Submit the prescribed application, business and residence street addresses, required documents and fees; authenticate the application as authorized by 17 DCMR 2601.1–2601.2.
Broker education
135 clock hours of Commission-approved broker pre-license education, subject to an applicable approved waiver (17 DCMR 2601.3).
Broker experience
Two immediately preceding years actively licensed as a broker or salesperson in the District or elsewhere, or equivalent experience accepted by the Commission; documentation and qualifying equivalent-experience capacities follow 17 DCMR 2601.7–2601.9.
Criminal eligibility
Occupationally related convictions are evaluated under D.C. Code §§ 47-2853.12(a)(1) and 47-2853.17(c-1), including its exclusions and rehabilitation factors; the Board determines eligibility.
Dc fair housing
Complete a Commission-approved DC Fair Housing course; the PSI bulletin specifies three hours.
Dc property management
Complete a Commission-approved property-management course (17 DCMR 2601.10(c)).
English
Able to read, write, and understand English (17 DCMR 2610.5).
Existing license
Current broker license or certification in the same or substantially similar occupation, in good standing, with standards at least as high as District standards at original issuance and reciprocal admission of District licensees (17 DCMR 2611.1).
Implementation experience
The PSI bulletin, printed page 1, states that broker applicants must first hold a salesperson license and have two years of salesperson experience; the statutory and rule equivalent-experience alternative remains available.
License certification
Provide originals or notarized proof under 17 DCMR 2611; the PSI bulletin requires an original licensing-jurisdiction certification dated within 90 days.
License denial
No real estate license denial other than examination failure within the preceding year (17 DCMR 2610.6).
License revocation
No qualifying real estate license revocation within three years, subject to controlling statutory provisions and the Board order (17 DCMR 2610.8).
License suspension
An effective license suspension prevents renewal; initial eligibility also requires compliance with D.C. Code § 47-2853.172(6).
Minimum age
At least 18 years of age (17 DCMR 2610.1 and D.C. Code § 47-2853.12(a)(2)).
National waiver
D.C. Code § 47-2853.12(b)(1) waives examination or other proof of fitness for an eligible reciprocal applicant; § 47-2853.12(c)(1) and 17 DCMR 2601.10 preserve the DC law examination.
Partial retake
PSI permits retaking only the failed portion; a failed portion must be passed within six months of the first examination attempt (bulletin, printed page 3).
Reciprocity implementation
The PSI bulletin accepts brokers currently licensed in Maryland or Virginia for its reciprocity application procedure; those are conditions on the DC route, not examinations of those jurisdictions.
Salesperson qualification
Establish satisfaction of the salesperson licensure requirements incorporated by D.C. Code § 47-2853.162(1) and 17 DCMR 2601.6; existing licensure and qualification evidence are applicant conditions.
School completion
High school graduate or holder of a high school equivalency certificate (17 DCMR 2610.4).
Score and filing window
Pass with at least 75; apply and pay the prescribed fee within six months of passing, or retake the examination (17 DCMR 2601.4–2601.5).

Real Estate Organization

Broker license for a firm, franchise, partnership, association, or corporation; professional personnel and branch managers must hold their own licenses.

Licensing authority: District of Columbia Real Estate Commission · Application information

Duplicate license for an additional branch office
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Branch
Obtain and display a duplicate license for each branch, pay the required fee, and comply with branch management requirements.
Current license
An existing licensed broker maintains more than one District place of business.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reactivation after five or more inactive years with Board excuse
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board exception
The Board determines that the failure to renew during the five-year inactive period resulted from reasonable cause or excusable neglect; absent that determination the applicant must meet current initial licensure requirements.
Continuing education
Comply with applicable Commission continuing education: the broker rule requires 15 hours per two-year cycle, including nine mandated, three property management, and three broker supervision hours; the first renewal of a license granted by examination is exempt (17 DCMR 2605.1 and 2605.3).
Documentation
Submit course-completion certification as prescribed by 17 DCMR 2605.6.
Good standing
Maintain renewal eligibility and comply with restrictions on licenses subject to an active suspension.
Reactivation
Comply with applicable continuing education, renewal requirements, reactivation fees and any Fund assessment.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement within five years after expiration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Additional training
The Board may impose additional education or training before or after reinstatement; comply with all continuing education arrears under 17 DCMR 2605.7.
Continuing education
Comply with applicable Commission continuing education: the broker rule requires 15 hours per two-year cycle, including nine mandated, three property management, and three broker supervision hours; the first renewal of a license granted by examination is exempt (17 DCMR 2605.1 and 2605.3).
Documentation
Submit course-completion certification as prescribed by 17 DCMR 2605.6.
Expired period
Apply within five years after expiration, using the prescribed reinstatement application and fees and any current Fund assessment.
Fitness
Submit satisfactory evidence of competency, knowledge of District and federal law and fitness to resume practice without harm to the public or profession; the Board considers practice history, time away, violations, character and current competence.
Good standing
Maintain renewal eligibility and comply with restrictions on licenses subject to an active suspension.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Restoration after delinquent Fund assessment
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Assessment default
License suspended for failure to pay a Fund replenishment assessment; pay the delinquent assessment, six percent interest calculated from its due date and the fifty-dollar penalty.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Restoration after repayment of a Fund claim
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Fund claim
License suspended pending repayment of a Fund claim; repay the full amount ordered paid from the Fund and six percent interest per annum, and satisfy applicable disciplinary reinstatement terms.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Placement of an existing license on inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing license
Holder of an existing District license applies for inactive status and pays the prescribed inactive fee.
Inactive duration
Five or more years generally triggers new-applicant requirements unless reasonable cause or excusable neglect is accepted. Rule 2612.4 exempts qualifying government employees from its inactivity cap; controlling statutory reactivation requirements still apply.
Practice prohibition
No practice, attempted practice, or offer to practice while inactive; no renewal fee applies.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial broker licensure of a real estate organization
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit the prescribed business-address application, required authentication, documents and fees (17 DCMR 2601.1–2601.2).
Branch manager
Every branch office must be managed by a licensed real estate broker.
Employees
Every employee rendering regulated professional services must have a valid Commission license or certificate.
Organization
Organized and existing under applicable District and federal law.
Principals
Each person, member, partner, trustee, or officer engaged in regulated activities must hold a license under the subchapter.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Late renewal within sixty days
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Comply with applicable Commission continuing education: the broker rule requires 15 hours per two-year cycle, including nine mandated, three property management, and three broker supervision hours; the first renewal of a license granted by examination is exempt (17 DCMR 2605.1 and 2605.3).
Documentation
Submit course-completion certification as prescribed by 17 DCMR 2605.6.
Good standing
Maintain renewal eligibility and comply with restrictions on licenses subject to an active suspension.
Late window
Within sixty days after expiration, submit renewal application, required continuing education proof, renewal fee and late fee; upon renewal the intervening period is deemed licensed. A good-cause extension of the education-proof period may be granted under 17 DCMR 2605.10.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

New organization application after more than five expired years
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
File the prescribed organization application with business address, authenticated documentation and fees.
Entity and personnel
Meet D.C. Code § 47-2853.183 and 17 DCMR 2601.11: legally organized entity, licensed regulated principals and employees, and licensed broker management of each branch.
Previous license
The five-year rule requires a new application under current organization licensure requirements, subject to any statutory Board exception for inactivity.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

New organization application after five or more inactive years
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
File the prescribed organization application with business address, authenticated documentation and fees.
Entity and personnel
Meet D.C. Code § 47-2853.183 and 17 DCMR 2601.11: legally organized entity, licensed regulated principals and employees, and licensed broker management of each branch.
Previous license
The five-year rule requires a new application under current organization licensure requirements, subject to any statutory Board exception for inactivity.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reactivation after less than five years inactive
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Comply with applicable Commission continuing education: the broker rule requires 15 hours per two-year cycle, including nine mandated, three property management, and three broker supervision hours; the first renewal of a license granted by examination is exempt (17 DCMR 2605.1 and 2605.3).
Documentation
Submit course-completion certification as prescribed by 17 DCMR 2605.6.
Education arrears
Provide continuing education proof required for inactive license renewal under 17 DCMR 2605.7 and meet all current renewal requirements.
Fees
Pay reactivation fees and any current Fund assessment.
Good standing
Maintain renewal eligibility and comply with restrictions on licenses subject to an active suspension.
Inactive period
Inactive for less than five years.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reissuance after a change of business address
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing license
Existing licensed broker changes the principal business address.
Notice
Give the statutory written notice and return required licenses, pay required fees; rule 2701.5 additionally directs written notice with the relocation effective date fifteen days before relocation.
Suspension
Failure to give notice or return licenses causes suspension until compliance; reissued licenses cover the unexpired term.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal of an existing license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit timely renewal application and fees, meet current renewal requirements, and provide a residence street address if an individual.
Continuing education
Comply with applicable Commission continuing education: the broker rule requires 15 hours per two-year cycle, including nine mandated, three property management, and three broker supervision hours; the first renewal of a license granted by examination is exempt (17 DCMR 2605.1 and 2605.3).
Documentation
Submit course-completion certification as prescribed by 17 DCMR 2605.6.
Good standing
Maintain renewal eligibility and comply with restrictions on licenses subject to an active suspension.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement of a revoked license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Comply with applicable Commission continuing education: the broker rule requires 15 hours per two-year cycle, including nine mandated, three property management, and three broker supervision hours; the first renewal of a license granted by examination is exempt (17 DCMR 2605.1 and 2605.3).
Disciplinary order
Reinstatement is governed by the suspension/revocation order or final reviewing judgment under D.C. Code § 47-2853.24; no uniform named examination is prescribed by the published reinstatement rule. A case-specific remediation order may require reexamination in the Board-prescribed manner under § 47-2853.17(c)(6), which is an applicant condition.
Documentation
Submit course-completion certification as prescribed by 17 DCMR 2605.6.
Eligibility wait
For a revoked license, generally wait three years unless the controlling statute or order provides otherwise; a denied reinstatement application carries a one-year bar.
Fitness
Submit evidence of moral qualifications, competency and knowledge of District and federal laws; complete applicable continuing education and any Board-required education or training.
Fund repayment
If applicable, repay the full Fund claim with six percent annual interest, comply with fines and relevant reinstatement conditions.
Good standing
Maintain renewal eligibility and comply with restrictions on licenses subject to an active suspension.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement of a suspended license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Comply with applicable Commission continuing education: the broker rule requires 15 hours per two-year cycle, including nine mandated, three property management, and three broker supervision hours; the first renewal of a license granted by examination is exempt (17 DCMR 2605.1 and 2605.3).
Disciplinary order
Reinstatement is governed by the suspension/revocation order or final reviewing judgment under D.C. Code § 47-2853.24; no uniform named examination is prescribed by the published reinstatement rule. A case-specific remediation order may require reexamination in the Board-prescribed manner under § 47-2853.17(c)(6), which is an applicant condition.
Documentation
Submit course-completion certification as prescribed by 17 DCMR 2605.6.
Eligibility wait
Comply with the suspension order and any applicable eligibility period; a denied reinstatement application carries a one-year bar.
Fitness
Submit evidence of moral qualifications, competency and knowledge of District and federal laws; complete applicable continuing education and any Board-required education or training.
Fund repayment
If applicable, repay the full Fund claim with six percent annual interest, comply with fines and relevant reinstatement conditions.
Good standing
Maintain renewal eligibility and comply with restrictions on licenses subject to an active suspension.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

District of Columbia Real Estate Broker Examination — State Portion

Provider
PSI Services LLC
Format
Computer-administered written examination
Exam questions
40 scored questions; up to 10 additional non-scored items may be administered
Time limit
90 minutes
Passing score
75% correct
Exam fee
$79 whether taking one portion or both portions
Examination outline
  • I. DUTIES AND POWERS OF THE REAL ESTATE COMMISSION (12.5%)
    • A. General powers
    • B. Investigations, hearings, and appeals
    • C. Disciplinary Actions — 1. Sanctions
    • C. Disciplinary Actions — 2. Suspension and revocation
    • C. Disciplinary Actions — 3. Fines
    • D. Guaranty and Education Fund administration
  • II. LICENSING REQUIREMENTS (15%)
    • A. Activities requiring a license
    • B. Eligibility for licensing (Broker only)
    • C. Types of licenses (Broker only)
    • D. License maintenance — 1. Continuing education
    • D. License maintenance — 2. Reinstatement and renewal
    • D. License maintenance — 3. Change in license
  • III. STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS GOVERNING THE ACTIVITIES OF LICENSEES (60%)
    • A. Advertising/Technology
    • B. Broker/salesperson relationship
    • C. Commissions
    • D. Disclosure/conflict of interest
    • E. Handling of documents
    • F. Handling of monies
    • G. Fair housing/ADA
    • H. Tenant’s right to purchase
    • I. Agency — 1. Disclosure of relationships
    • I. Agency — 2. Fiduciary duties
    • J. Property disclosures — 1. General
    • J. Property disclosures — 2. Historic preservation
    • J. Property disclosures — 3. Common-interest communities
    • K. Environmental issues — 1. Sustainable energy
    • K. Environmental issues — 2. District of Columbia regulations
  • IV. RESPONSIBILITIES SPECIFIC TO BROKERAGE PRACTICE (12.5%)
    • A. Corporations
    • B. Place of business
    • C. Supervision of licensees
Examination sources

National Broker Exam — National Portion (Real Estate Principles and Practices)

Provider
PSI Services LLC
Format
National portion of state real estate broker licensing examinations with its own minimum passing score; scenario-based questions with more than four options and one best answer, each option weighted zero, one or two points; candidates who fail one portion retake only that portion
Examination outline
  • I. Property Ownership (Broker 10%) (10%)
    • A. Real and personal property; conveyances
    • B. Land characteristics and legal descriptions: 1. Metes and bounds method of legal property description; 2. Lot and block (recorded plat) method of legal property description; 3. Government survey (rectangular survey) method of legal property description; 4. Measuring structures (linear and square footage); 5. Land measurement
    • C. Encumbrances and effects on property ownership: 1. Types of liens and their effect on the title and value of real property; 2. Easements, rights of way and licenses, including their effect on the title, value and use of real property; 3. Encroachments and their effect on the title, value and use of real property; 4. Potential encumbrances on title, such as probate, leases, or adverse possession; 5. Property rights that may be conveyed separately from use of the land surface, such as mineral and other subsurface rights, air rights, or water rights
    • D. Types of ownership: 1. Ownership in severalty/sole ownership; 2. Implications of ownership as tenants in common; 3. Implications of ownership in joint tenancy; 4. Forms of common-interest ownership, such as Timeshares, Condominiums and Co-ops; 5. Property ownership held in a trust or by an estate; 6. Ownership by business entities; 7. Life Estate ownership
  • II. Land use Controls (Broker 5%) (5%)
    • A. Government rights in land: 1. Government rights to impose property taxes and special assessments; 2. Government rights to acquire land through eminent domain, condemnation and escheat
    • B. Government controls on land use
    • C. Private controls: 1. Deed conditions or restrictions on property use; 2. Subdivision covenants, conditions and restrictions (CC&Rs) on property use; 3. Condominium and owners’ associations regulations or bylaws on property use
  • III. Valuation (Broker 8%) (8%)
    • A. Appraisals: 1. Appraisals for valuation of real property; 2. Situations which require appraisal by a licensed or certified appraiser and brokerage-related actions that constitute unauthorized appraisal practice; 3. General steps in appraisal process
    • B. Estimating Value: 1. Economic principles and property characteristics that affect value of real property; 2. Sales or market comparison approach to property valuation and appropriate uses; 3. Cost approach to property valuation and appropriate uses; 4. Income analysis approach to property valuation and appropriate uses
    • C. Comparative Market Analysis (CMA): 1. Competitive/Comparative Market Analysis (CMA), BPO or equivalent; 2. Automated Valuation Method (AVM), appraisal valuation and Comparative Market Analysis (CMA)
  • IV. Financing (Broker 9%) (9%)
    • A. Basic Concepts and Terminology: 1. Loan financing (for example, points, LTV, PMI, interest, PITI); 2. General underwriting process (e.g., debt ratios, credit scoring and history); 3. Standard mortgage/deed of trust clauses and conditions; 4. Essential elements of a promissory note
    • B. Types of Loans: 1. Conventional loans; 2. Amortized loans, partially amortized (balloon) loans, interest-only loans; 3. Adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) loans; 4. Government Loans — a. FHA insured loans; b. VA guaranteed loans; c. USDA/Rural Development loan programs; 5. Owner financing (for example, installment or land contract/contract for deed); 6. Reverse-mortgage loans; 7. Home equity loans and lines of credit; 8. Construction loans; 9. Rehab loans; 10. Bridge loans
    • C. Financing and Lending: 1. Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA), including kickbacks; 2. Truth-in-Lending Act (Regulation Z), including advertising; 3. Requirements and time frames of TRID (TILA-RESPA Integrated Disclosures); 4. Equal Credit Opportunity Act; 5. Lending Process (application through loan closing); 6. Risky loan features, such as prepayment penalties and balloon payments
  • V. Contracts (Broker 19%) (19%)
    • A. General Contract Law: 1. General principles of contract law; 2. Elements necessary for a contract to be valid; 3. Effect of the Statute of Frauds; 4. Offer and a contract; 5. Enforceability of contracts; 6. Void, voidable and unenforceable contracts; 7. Bilateral and unilateral contracts; 8. Nature and use of option agreements; 9. Notice, delivery, acceptance and execution of contracts; 10. Appropriate use, risks, and advantages of electronic signatures and paperless transactions; 11. Rights and obligations of the parties to a contract; 12. Possible remedies for breach or non-performance of contract; 13. Termination, rescission and cancellation of contracts
    • B. Purchase and Lease Contracts: 1. Addenda and amendments to contracts; 2. Purchase agreements; 3. Contract contingencies and methods for satisfying them; 4. Leases and rental agreements; 5. Lease-purchase agreements; 6. Types of leases
    • C. Proper handling of multiple offers and counteroffers
  • VI. Agency (Broker 13%) (13%)
    • A. Agency and non-agency relationships: 1. Agency relationships and how they are established; 2. Types of listing contracts; 3. Buyer brokerage/tenant representation contracts; 4. Other brokerage relationships, including transaction brokers and facilitators; 5. Powers of attorney and other assignments of authority; 6. Conditions for termination of agency or brokerage service agreements
    • B. Agent Duties: 1. Fiduciary duties of agents; 2. Agent's duties to customers/non-clients, including honesty and good faith
    • C. Agency Disclosures: 1. Disclosure of agency/representation; 2. Disclosure of possible conflict of interest or self-interest
  • VII. Property Disclosures (Broker 7%) (7%)
    • A. Property Condition: 1. Seller's property condition disclosure requirements; 2. Property conditions that may warrant inspections or a survey; 3. Red flags that warrant investigation of public or private land use controls
    • B. Environmental and Government Disclosures: 1. Environmental issues requiring disclosure; 2. Federal, state, or local disclosure requirements regarding the property
    • C. Disclosure of material facts and material defects
  • VIII. Property Management (Broker 5%) (5%)
    • A. Duties and Responsibilities: 1. Procurement and qualification of prospective tenants; 2. Fair housing and ADA compliance specific to property management; 3. How to complete a market analysis to identify factors in setting rents or lease rates; 4. Property manager responsibility for maintenance, improvements, reporting and risk management (BROKER ONLY); 5. Handling landlord and tenant funds; trust accounts, reports and disbursements (BROKER ONLY); 6. Provisions of property management contracts (BROKER ONLY)
    • B. Landlord and tenant rights and obligations
  • IX. Transfer of Title (Broker 6%) (6%)
    • A. Types of deeds
    • B. Title Insurance and Searches: 1. Title insurance policies and title searches; 2. Potential title problems and resolutions; 3. Marketable and insurable title
    • C. Closing Process: 1. When transfer of ownership becomes effective; 2. Process and importance of recordation; 3. Settlement procedures (closing) and parties involved; 4. Home and new construction warranties
    • D. Special Processes: 1. Special issues in transferring foreclosed properties; 2. Special issues in short sale transactions; 3. Special issues in probate transactions
  • X. Practice of Real Estate (Broker 12%) (12%)
    • A. Antidiscrimination: 1. Federal Fair Housing Act general principles and exemptions; 2. Protected classes under Federal Fair Housing Act; 3. Protections against discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation; 4. Prohibited conduct under Federal Fair Housing Act (Redlining, Blockbusting, Steering, Disparate Treatment); 5. Fair housing advertising rules; 6. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) obligations pertaining to accessibility and reasonable accommodations
    • B. Legislation and Regulations: 1. Licensees’ status as employees or independent contractors; 2. Antitrust laws and types of violations, fines and penalties; 3. Do-Not-Call List rule compliance; 4. Proper use of Social Media and Internet communication and advertising
    • C. Duties and Responsibilities: 1. Protection of confidential personal information (written, verbal or electronic); 2. Duties when handling funds of others in transactions; 3. Licensee responsibility for due diligence in real estate transactions
    • D. Supervisory Responsibilities (BROKER ONLY): 1. Broker's supervisory responsibilities (licensees, teams and unlicensed assistants and employees) (BROKER ONLY); 2. Broker relationship with licensees (employees or independent contractors and governing rules) (BROKER ONLY)
  • XI. Real Estate Calculations (Broker 6%) (6%)
    • A. Calculations for Transactions: 1. Seller’s net proceeds; 2. Buyer funds needed at closing; 3. Real property tax and other prorations; 4. Real property transfer fees; 5. PITI (Principal, Interest, Taxes and Insurance) payments estimate given loan rate and term
    • B. General Concepts: 1. Equity; 2. Rate of return/Capitalization rate; 3. Loan-to-Value ratio; 4. Discount points and loan origination fees
Examination sources