Real Estate Agent License Requirements in Alabama
- Training hours
- 60 hrs
- Upfront cost
- $220
- Exam
- Alabama Real Estate Salesperson Examination
- Renewal cycle
- Every 2 years
- Issuing board
- Alabama Real Estate Commission
How to get licensed
- 1
Meet the prerequisites
Be at least 19 years old, High school diploma or equivalent (GED), pass a criminal background check. Must be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident alien, or legally present in the U.S. and show proof of residency. [1]
- 2
Complete approved training
Complete 60 hours of training at a state-approved program. Requires completion of an approved 60-clock-hour salesperson pre-license course, followed by a 30-clock-hour post-license course within the first year of licensure (first 6 months to maintain active status). [1]
- 3
Alabama Real Estate Salesperson Examination
Pass the Alabama Real Estate Salesperson Examination (fee: $70). Computer-based Includes national and state portions. If a candidate fails one portion, they must retake the entire exam. [2]
- 4
Submit your application
Submit your application to Alabama Real Estate Commission. [3]
- 5
Receive your license
Once your application is approved, Alabama Real Estate Commission issues your Temporary Salesperson for Alabama.
Fees
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application fee [3] | None specified |
| License fee [3] | $150 |
| Renewal fee [3] | $185 |
| Alabama Real Estate Salesperson Examination [2] | $70 |
| Research and Education Fee (Temporary) [3] | $30 |
| Recovery Fund Fee [3] | $30 |
| Fieldprint Fingerprint Background Check [3] | $48.25 |
No separate application fee beyond the license fees. The temporary salesperson license fee is $150, plus a $30 research and education fee and a $30 recovery fund fee (total $210 for active status). The original (permanent) salesperson license fee is $85/year (typically $170 for a full biennial period). Fingerprinting through Fieldprint costs $48.25.
Renewal & continuing education
Renew every 2 years. 15 continuing education hours required per cycle.
Licenses are renewed biennially in even-numbered years. Renewal must be completed by August 31 to avoid a $150 penalty; the license officially expires on September 30.
Reciprocity
Endorsement/reciprocity from another state is available.
Reciprocal licensing is available for active licensees from other states. Applicants must complete a 6-hour reciprocal prelicense course on Alabama license law and pass a reciprocal salesperson examination.
1 state-approved training provider in Alabama — browse programs and compare schools on tradecolleges.org.
Cost calculator
- $150
- $70
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to renew my real estate license if it is on inactive status?
Yes. Even if your license is inactive, you must renew it every two years. Failing to renew will cause the license to lapse, requiring you to restart the licensing process, including retaking exams.
What are the continuing education requirements for active salesperson renewal?
Active salespersons must complete 15 clock hours of Commission-approved continuing education every two years (by September 30 of even years), which must include a mandatory 3-hour Risk Management course and 12 hours of electives.
How long do I have to take the exam after completing my prelicense course?
You must take and pass the state licensing exam within 6 months of completing the approved 60-clock-hour salesperson prelicense course. Otherwise, the course must be retaken.
How long do I have to apply for my license after passing the exam?
You must submit your completed license application and fees to the Commission within 90 days of passing your examination. If you miss this deadline, your exam score is void.
Sources
- [1] arec.alabama.gov — accessed 2026-07-12
- [2] home.pearsonvue.com/al/realestate — accessed 2026-07-12
- [3] arec.alabama.gov/education/resources — accessed 2026-07-12