How Long Does It Take to Get a Real Estate License in Arizona? A Comprehensive Guide

If you are paying attention to the Arizona real estate market, you know experts are optimistic about its overall health. You also may know that home prices continue to rise in Arizona, with the average price currently at $434,865. Since commissions are often based on the cost of the property, this information may make you eager to enter the industry and become a real estate agent. How long does it take to get a real estate license in AZ? We’ll answer that question and tell you about the licensing process. Keep reading!

Key Takeaways

• To get a real estate license in Arizona, you must complete a 90-hour pre-licensing course and a 6-hour contract writing course, pass a background check, take the licensing exam, and submit an application.
• The entire process can take one to three months, depending on individual circumstances and commitment. Factors influencing the timeline include prior experience, study habits, and state processing times.
• Accelerate the process by understanding all requirements, completing coursework efficiently, organizing your schedule, filling out applications correctly, preparing thoroughly for the exam, and promptly completing the background check.
• Utilizing accredited schools with high pass rates, quality study materials, and support from experienced instructors and agents can help streamline the licensing process.

Overview of the Real Estate Licensing Process in Arizona

Before we discuss how long it takes to become licensed, here’s a brief overview of the process.

First, licensees must be at least 18 years old and U.S. citizens or legal aliens. If you meet those requirements, you can complete the pre-licensing courses and a background check, take your licensing exam, and submit your license application.

How long do each of these steps take? The timeline depends on you – and a host of other factors.

Pre-licensing education

The Arizona Department of Real Estate (ADRE) requires prospective real estate agents to take a 90-hour salesperson pre-licensing course from a state-approved education provider. In addition, the state requires a 6-hour course called Introduction To Contract Writing.

You can complete the classes at your own pace or enroll in scheduled in-person or livestream classes.

How many hours of education are required for a real estate license in Arizona?

The Arizona real estate licensing courses take 90 hours to complete (96 hours if you include the stand-alone Introduction to Contract Writing class). If you have an open schedule and can focus on the material, you could complete your pre-licensing education in two weeks. Arizona School of Real Estate and Business (ASREB) also offers two-week livestream and in-person classes.

Background check

Real estate agents must complete a background check to work in the industry. You must be fingerprinted as a part of the background check. To complete the fingerprinting process, go to the ASREB offices in Scottsdale or Glendale and complete the process in person. Next, submit your fingerprint cards and the non-IVP Fingerprint Clearance Card Application to the Arizona Department of Public Safety.

How long will it take for my background check to be completed for an Arizona real estate license?

The average processing time for online applicants with no criminal history is typically less than two days. For online applicants with a criminal history, the processing time averages up to 30 business days.

If you submit a paper application, expect your background check to be processed in 10 to 30 days.

Licensing exam

Once you have completed the 90-hour pre-licensing course, visit the PearsonVue website to schedule the exam. You can take your test at a local testing center or opt for online proctoring and take your test from your home or office.

Taking the exam may only take you five hours (or less). However, the state requires that you score 75% or higher on the Arizona real estate licensing exam, so you’ll need to spend time preparing for the test.

The length of time it would take you to study depends on a variety of factors, including the quality of your pre-licensing education, whether you utilize exam prep materials, and your test-taking abilities. Some people report that they could pass the Arizona licensing exam after one day of study, and others took six weeks to ensure they knew the material before sitting for the exam.

How quickly can I schedule and take the real estate licensing exam in Arizona?

You have to schedule your exam at least 24 hours in advance with Pearson Vue. So, theoretically, you can complete this step of the Arizona licensing process within two days.

Arizona salesperson application

Arizona real estate salesperson applicants must take the 6-hour contract licensing course after finishing the 90-hour course and passing the state exam – but before applying for their license.

PearsonVue will send you the Salesperson License Application and instructions when you pass the real estate salesperson exam. After you complete the application, you will submit it and the required supporting documentation to the Arizona Department of Real Estate through the department’s online message center.

Completing the application and gathering the required supporting documents may take several hours. Once you apply, you must wait for it to be approved.

What is the Arizona real estate license application processing time?

Some sources say the application processing time is between 5 and 10 business days.

Sponsoring broker

The final step to activate your license is to log into the state’s Online Licensing & Renewal System, choose the “hire” option, and enter your employing broker license. However, the Designated Broker must accept the “hire on” using the same system before the license status is officially activated.

While that process may only take minutes, finding the right sponsoring broker may take time. Most people schedule interviews with several brokerages to find the right fit.

Related: Top Questions for Your Real Estate Interview in Arizona

How Long Does It Take to Get a Real Estate License in Arizona?

A motivated person can get their real estate license in Arizona in one and a half to three months.

Factors that influence the licensing timeline

The licensing timeline isn’t the same for everyone. Here are some factors influencing how long it takes to become a real estate agent.

• Prior real estate experience and background
• Personal study habits and time commitment
• State processing times
• Licensee’s legal background

Tips for accelerating the licensing process

You may wonder, “How can I get my real estate license faster?" Here are some tips for earning your real estate license as soon as possible.

1. Understand all the licensing requirements.

The Arizona real estate licensing process has many steps. To avoid delays, make sure you know how to complete each step in detail.

2. Complete your pre-licensing coursework with an accredited school with an excellent reputation.

This will help you understand the nuances of the licensing process and pass the licensing exam the first time you take it.

3. Organize and plan your schedule.

Dedicate specific times each day for studying and completing coursework. Prioritize these tasks to finish your education as quickly as possible.

4. Ensure all applications are filled out correctly.

Incorrect and incomplete information on your applications will prolong the real estate licensing process.

5. Use the best study materials to prepare for the licensing exam.

Utilize online practice exams, flashcards, and study groups to prepare for the exam efficiently. Focus on high-yield topics and areas where you need improvement.

6. Schedule the licensing exam ASAP.

Book your exam date as soon as you are eligible. Look for the earliest available slots and be flexible with your schedule to take advantage of any openings.

7. Complete your background check and fingerprinting quickly.

Schedule your background check and fingerprinting as soon as possible, as they can take time to process.

8. Research and connect with brokerages early.

Start researching potential brokerages and making connections even before you pass the exam. This way, you can quickly activate your license once you pass.

9. Stay focused and minimize distractions.

During this period, minimize distractions and focus on your goal. Communicate with family and friends about your commitment to expedite the process.

10. Seek support from experienced instructors and licensed agents.

Connect with experienced real estate instructors and agents who can offer advice and tips on expediting the process. They may provide insights on the best resources and strategies.
By following these steps and staying proactive, you can speed up earning your real estate license and start your career sooner.

If you want to earn your real estate license in Arizona as fast as possible, connect with pros in the licensing process – the Arizona School of Real Estate and Business (ASREB). ASREB has the highest pass rates out of all the real estate schools in the state! Our outstanding instructors know the industry and will connect you with brokers hiring in your area.

Don’t waste another minute. Begin your Arizona real estate courses today with ASREB.

Source:
“Fingerprint Clearance Card: Department of Public Safety.” Fingerprint Clearance Card | Department of Public Safety. Accessed July 11, 2024. https://www.azdps.gov/services/public-services-portal/fingerprint-clearance-card.