Trade Career Guide
How to Become a Real Estate Agent
Real estate sales agents help clients buy, sell, and rent properties. Every state requires a license, and earnings are heavily commission-based — top agents earn well above the median.
Median salary
$56,320
per year · BLS May 2024
Typical range
$31,940–$125,140
~10th–90th percentile
Job outlook
+3%
2024–2034 · About as fast as average
Time to qualify
A few weeks to a few months
Step-by-step: becoming a Real Estate Agent
- 1
Meet your state's minimum age and education requirements.
- 2
Complete your state's required prelicensing course hours.
- 3
Pass your state Real Estate Salesperson licensing exam.
- 4
Activate your license under a sponsoring broker.
- 5
Join your local MLS and association of Realtors.
- 6
Pursue a Broker license with added experience to run your own office.
Typical entry path: High school diploma plus prelicensing courses; license required in all states.
Ready to pass the Real Estate Salesperson exam?
The licensing exam is the gate to this career. Practice free on VoltExam with real exam-style questions and instant explanations — no signup to start.
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Salary and job-outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (Real Estate Sales Agents, SOC 41-9022; OEWS wages May 2024; Occupational Outlook Handbook projections 2024–2034). National medians; actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience. Verify current figures at bls.gov.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Real Estate Agent make?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024), the median annual wage for Real Estate Sales Agents is $56,320. Most earn between about $31,940 and $125,140 depending on experience, location, and specialization.
How do you become a Real Estate Agent?
Meet your state's minimum age and education requirements. Complete your state's required prelicensing course hours. Pass your state Real Estate Salesperson licensing exam. Activate your license under a sponsoring broker. Join your local MLS and association of Realtors. Pursue a Broker license with added experience to run your own office.
What is the job outlook for a Real Estate Agent?
The BLS projects 3% employment growth for Real Estate Sales Agents over 2024–2034 — about as fast as average for all occupations.
What exam or license does a Real Estate Agent need?
Most real estate agent roles require passing the Real Estate Salesperson exam. Typical entry path: High school diploma plus prelicensing courses; license required in all states.