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Real Estate License Resources

Types of Agents

Become a REALTOR®

The terms “real estate agent” and “REALTOR®” are often used interchangeably, but they are actually different. While real estate agents and REALTORS® are both licensed to sell real estate, a REALTOR® is a trademarked term that refers to a real estate agent who is a member of the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR). With over 1 million members nationwide, it is the largest trade association in the United States.

To become a member, you must first join a local association of REALTORS®, like SABOR. Membership at the local association automatically extends your membership to the state association and national association.

What really sets REALTORS® apart from real estate agents, however, is their commitment to the Code of Ethics. The Code was founded on the “Golden Rule” and requires that REALTORS® treat each other fairly and honestly and act in the best interests of consumers and their clients. Local and state REALTOR® associations are responsible for ensuring members adhere to the Code.

As a member of the association, you have access to numerous perks that come with membership including the opportunity to participate in committees, leadership programs, events, networking and more. You also have the benefit of the association’s advocacy with local, state and national legislators to protect private property rights.

Maintaining Your License

Your real estate license must be renewed every two years if you are a real estate sales agent or broker. Certain continuing education courses are required as part of the renewal process and others are electives at the agent’s discretion.

First Time Renewal

Those renewing for the first time, whether the license is active or inactive, are required to have a total of 270 qualifying real estate course hours prior to submitting a renewal. If 180 hours were submitted to obtain the license, an additional 90 hours of approved Sales Apprentice Education (SAE) and an additional 8 hours of Legal Update I and Legal Update II (4 hours each) must be completed. 

Broker Requirements

If the sales agent has been made a supervisor by the broker, the agent must also complete the 6-hour Broker Responsibility Course to renew. Brokers who sponsor one or more sales agents, serve as a designated broker for a business entity broker, or have been made a supervisor of other license holders must also take the 6-hour Broker Responsibility Course as part of the 18 hours of CE.