How to Get Your Real Estate Salesperson License in New York
Governing body, experience requirements, exam details, and step-by-step instructions for New York. Last verified: February 2026.
Quick Facts
Hours Required
77 hrs pre-licensing
Exam
NY Real Estate Salesperson Exam
Fee Range
$65 app + $15 exam [VERIFY]
Governing Body
NY DOS
Requirements
New York requires 77 hours of DOS-approved pre-licensing education for a Real Estate Salesperson license. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, complete a background check, and be sponsored by a NYS-licensed real estate broker. The license is valid for 2 years and renewable with 22.5 hours of continuing education.
Steps to Apply
- 1
Complete 77 hours of DOS-approved pre-licensing real estate education from an approved school.
- 2
Schedule and pass the NY Real Estate Salesperson exam through Pearson VUE.
- 3
Submit a license application to the NY DOS through eAccessNY, including fingerprint/background check.
- 4
Pay the $65 application fee to the NY DOS.
- 5
Have your sponsoring licensed broker activate your license in eAccessNY.
- 6
Receive your NYS Real Estate Salesperson license (valid 2 years).
Exam Details
The NY DOS Real Estate Salesperson exam is administered by Pearson VUE at testing centers statewide. The exam contains 75 multiple-choice questions covering New York real estate law, agency, contracts, finance, and ethics. A passing score of 70% is required. Results are reported immediately after the computer-based test.
Fees & Costs
Estimated total: $65 app + $15 exam [VERIFY]
The NY DOS application fee is $65 [VERIFY]. The Pearson VUE exam fee is $15 [VERIFY current Pearson VUE fee]. Fingerprinting and background check fees are also required (approximately $72 via ePropertyData). Total estimated cost: ~$150–$175.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many questions are on the New York real estate exam?
The NY Real Estate Salesperson exam has 75 multiple-choice questions. A score of 70% (53 correct) is required to pass. You have 1.5 hours to complete the exam.
How long does it take to get a real estate license in New York?
Most candidates complete the 77-hour pre-licensing course in 4–8 weeks, then schedule the exam. From course completion to license in hand typically takes 6–12 weeks depending on application processing times.
Can I take the NY real estate course online?
Yes. The NY DOS approves online pre-licensing courses. Many students complete the 77-hour requirement entirely online at their own pace.
Does New York have reciprocity with other states?
New York has limited reciprocity. Licensed agents from Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Georgia, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Pennsylvania may qualify for a waiver of the NY pre-licensing education requirement. Check ny.gov/dos for current reciprocity agreements.
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