If you’re wondering how to get an Arizona real estate license, we’ll take you through it step by step and answer some common questions about the real estate industry in Arizona.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Arizona is the third-highest-ranking state in terms of population growth. People are flocking to The Grand Canyon State for its natural beauty, mild winters, and retirement appeal. What does this population growth mean for you as an Arizona resident? A new career opportunity.
To consider becoming a real estate agent in Arizona, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have an honest and truthful character
- Not have been denied a real estate license within the last year (or have a license revoked within the past two years)
How to Get an Arizona Real Estate License in 6 Easy Steps
- Take the Prelicensing Courses
- Obtain an Arizona Fingerprint Clearance Card
- Schedule and Pass the Arizona Real Estate Sales Exam
- Complete the Required Six-Hour Contract Writing Class
- Join an Arizona Real Estate Brokerage
- Submit Your Arizona Real Estate License Application Paperwork
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Real Estate License in Arizona?
| Prelicensing Classes (96 Hours) | $559 (The CE Shop) |
| Test Prep Materials | $129 (Mbition) |
| Examination Application and Fees | $75 |
| License Fee | $60 |
| Fingerprinting Fee | $67 |
| Total | $890 |
How to Get a Real Estate License in Arizona in 6 Easy Steps
Let’s dive a little deeper into each of these steps and more thoroughly understand how to become a real estate agent in Arizona.
1. Take the Prelicensing Courses
The first step in becoming a real estate agent in Arizona is enrolling in the 90 hours of prelicensing coursework from a state-approved school. To find one in your area, search for schools based on your ZIP code or city name.
You’ll have to do a bit of research to narrow your search to those offering online courses and those that offer in-person or live online classes.
Look carefully at the course packages available from each school. The least expensive options may only cover essential information. More costly packages may include test prep materials or continuing education classes to relicense after working your first year as a real estate agent.
Consider obtaining your Arizona real estate license online using courses through The CE Shop. They have a high student satisfaction rate, and you can complete the work in as quickly as three weeks.
2. Obtain an Arizona Fingerprint Clearance Card
Real estate agents are required to undergo a background check before getting licensed. Arizona’s background check process begins with applicants obtaining a Fingerprint Clearance Card. The Arizona Department of Public Safety completes this service for $67, and the wait time is typically less than 10 days.
The Arizona Department of Public Safety will compare your fingerprints with those found in state and national databases. If you have a record, it’s best to disclose that information on the application. It’s worth noting that a history of some criminal offenses may preclude you from becoming a real estate agent. There is an appeal process if you feel that extenuating circumstances may move a judgment in your favor.
3. Schedule & Pass the Arizona Real Estate Sales Exam
After completing your prelicense education requirements, you’ll need to schedule and pass your Arizona Real Estate Sales Exam. Applicants must start by creating an account and scheduling the exam through the Pearson VUE website. The Arizona Real Estate Sales Exam costs $75 and is offered in Chandler, Flagstaff, Phoenix, Tempe, Tucson, and Yuma.
4. Complete the Required 6-Hour Contract Writing Class
Once you’ve passed the Arizona real estate license exam, you’re required to complete a six-hour Arizona Contract Writing Course. The Hogan School of Real Estate offers a live-streamed version of this class for $59. It’s also included in the basic Arizona real estate license online package from The CE Shop.
5. Join an Arizona Real Estate Brokerage
As in other states, Arizona requires real estate agents to work under a licensed broker. A broker is a real estate professional with experience and additional training that qualifies them to oversee real estate agents. Once you’ve found a broker, they must register you in the Arizona Department of Real Estate online system before you are able to legally work as an agent.
Joining a brokerage is similar to applying for a job, so dust off your resume and interview skills. However, unlike a traditional job, a real estate agency will not pay you a salary. A real estate agent’s compensation is based entirely on commission. Some brokerages may be very selective about who represents their brand in the community, while others may be happy to have as many agents as possible working under their umbrella.
6. Submit Your Arizona Real Estate License Application Paperwork
After completing the first five steps, you’ll be ready to complete the Arizona real estate sales application. At this point, you’ve taken all the necessary coursework, passed the exam, received your fingerprint clearance card, and have been hired to work under a broker.
In addition to submitting your official application and paying the $60 fee, a few other forms require your attention. You need to provide proof of legal presence and complete a disciplinary actions disclosure form.
How to Get a Real Estate License in Arizona: FAQs
We know we’ve inundated you with details on how to get your Arizona real estate license online. Here are some other questions people have about the process.
How long does it take to get a real estate license in Arizona?
It takes about three months to get an Arizona real estate license. Even if you decide to take in-person courses, most Arizona real estate schools get through the material in one month or less.
You can also meet your classroom requirements by obtaining your Arizona real estate license online. This option enables you to work at your own pace and potentially move faster than those who enroll in live, in-person classes.
How much does it cost to get a real estate license in Arizona?
It costs around $900 to get an Arizona real estate license. Those interested in becoming a real estate agent in Arizona must take 90 hours of prelicensing classes before sitting for the exam. Real estate schools and test prep materials vary in price. Some of the fees, such as the application, fingerprinting, and exam fees, are the same for every applicant.
How much does a realtor make in Arizona?
According to Indeed, Arizona real estate agents earn $92,117 per year. This salary is based entirely on commissions. If you are new to earning your salary through commissions, you may consider working part time as a real estate agent until you make a name for yourself and grow your client list.
Can you get your real estate license online in Arizona?
Yes! Do you need help choosing a school? Here are our picks for the best online Arizona real estate schools.
With many great options to choose from, we picked The CE Shop as the best online real estate school in Arizona. They have perfected online education and offer an easy-to-follow format. You’ll be able to complete your coursework in as little as three weeks!
Is the Arizona real estate exam hard?
Unfortunately, the state doesn’t provide the pass/fail rates for the Arizona real estate exam. We can tell you that the state requires you to learn about the following list of subjects before you sit for the exam:
- Real estate statutes
- Commissioner’s rules
- Agency relationships and managerial duties
- Contracts and contract law
- Property interests, estates, and tenancies
- Governments rights and real property
- Income tax aspects of real estate
- Water law
- Environmental law
- Land descriptions
- Land development and zoning
- Encumbrances
- Acquisition and transfer of title
- Escrow and settlement
- Fair Housing Act and Americans With Disabilities Act
- Leases and leasehold estates
- Arizona Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
- Property management
- Property insurance and warranties
- Appraisal
- Primary and secondary markets and financing concepts
- Residential and commercial financing
- Financing documents
- Deed of trust foreclosure
- Disclosure and consumer protection
- Real estate math
- Cooperative nature of real estate
To help you prepare for the exam, consider using Mbition’s test prep materials. Their National Master Exam Prep Package is only $129, and their system develops a personalized study plan for you after you answer some practice questions.
How long is the Arizona real estate exam?
You’ll have 300 minutes to answer 180 multiple-choice questions on the Arizona real estate exam. You’ll be notified immediately after the test if you earned a passing grade, which is 75% or higher.
Is it worth it to become a real estate agent in Arizona?
Yes! Arizona is one of the fastest-growing states in the country. These new residents need your help to find the perfect condo in Tucson or a private retreat in Sedona.
You need to go into your new career with open eyes. Real estate agents’ entire salary is based on commissions. You’ll need to understand the following terms when interviewing for jobs at area brokerages.
Split
Some brokerages will ask for a 50/50 split on commissions. Other brokerages may offer a more significant split but they’ll charge a monthly desk fee in return.
Salary Cap
A salary cap is the maximum amount of money that your brokerage will collect from your sales commissions within a calendar year. Once you reach your cap, you’re free to keep any additional commissions for yourself. Almost every brokerage offers a cap, so be sure to compare the amount from one company to another.
If you want to know which Arizona brokerages to apply to, check out our article What’s the Best Real Estate Company to Work for?
Ready to Get Started in Your New Career?
Now that you know how to get an Arizona real estate license, you may want to explore this new career opportunity. Check out our guide on how to get a real estate license and don’t forget to join our Facebook community of seasoned agents. In The Close Real Estate Agents Mastermind, you can get in on the conversation about launching and leveling up your real estate career.
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