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How to Become a Real Estate Agent in Maryland in 6 Easy Steps

Wondering how to get a Maryland real estate license and launch a new career in today’s fast-paced market? We’ll walk you through everything from your prelicensing education to the real estate exam to finding a brokerage to hire you.

Written By

Shannon Sharpe

Reviewed By:

Gina Baker

Oct 1, 2024

The Close content and product recommendations are editorially independent. We may make money when you click on links to our partners. Learn More

Ready to get your Maryland real estate license? Whether cruising along the Chesapeake or setting your sights on the Baltimore skyline, becoming a licensed agent in Maryland is your golden ticket to making some serious moves. Don’t worry; it will be as fun as catching a crab feast on the Eastern Shore. In just six easy steps, you’ll learn how to become a real estate agent in Maryland and make Old Bay–seasoned waves in real estate!

Quick Facts & Costs for Maryland Licensees

Quick Steps to Get a Maryland Real Estate License (+ costs) checkmark bullet

Step 1: Meet the legal requirements for your Maryland real estate license (no cost) checkmark bullet

Step 2: Choose a Maryland real estate school for prelicensing education (cost $200+) checkmark bullet

Step 3: Pass the Maryland real estate license exam (cost $44) checkmark bullet

Step 4: Apply for a Maryland real estate license (no cost) checkmark bullet

Step 5: Join a real estate brokerage (cost $90) checkmark bullet

Step 6: Start your real estate career in Maryland (no cost)

Types of Licensees in Maryland & How Much They Earn

Salesperson (salary range: $55,000 to $75,000): They work under the supervision of a licensed real estate broker and help clients buy, sell, or rent property.
Associate broker (salary range: $75,000 to $100,000): These are individuals who qualify to become brokers but prefer to work under another broker’s supervision rather than managing their own brokerage.
Broker (salary range: $75,000 to $125,000 or more):Brokers operate independently from a firm or even start their own real estate firms.

Step-by-Step Breakdown: How to Become a Real Estate Agent in Maryland

Step 1: Meet Maryland Legal Requirements

To be eligible for a Maryland realtor license, you need to:

Be at least 18 years old
Satisfy the commission that you possess good character and reputation
Meet any other requirement that the Maryland Real Estate Commission (MREC) deems necessary

Did you know? Maryland has reciprocity agreements with Oklahoma and Pennsylvania. This means agents already licensed in these states don’t have to take MREC’s prelicensing courses or exams but must pass the background check and submit the Original Reciprocal Form to earn their license.

Also, Maryland is a cooperative state in terms of portability. It allows out-of-state real estate agents or brokers to physically enter Maryland to conduct real estate business. However, out-of-state agents must have a co-brokerage agreement with a licensee in Maryland to work on a real estate transaction.

Step 2: Choose a Maryland Real Estate School for Prelicensing Education

Cost: $200 to $500
Time commitment:: 3 to 6 weeks depending on course format and pace
Helpful resource: Best Real Estate Schools in Maryland

Choosing the right Maryland real estate school for your prelicensing course is the first step toward getting your real estate license. In your real estate prelicensing classes for MD, you’ll learn key topics like real estate laws, contracts, property ownership, and ethical practices to prepare for the exam. You’ll need to complete 60 hours of coursework, so picking a school that fits your schedule and learning style is important.

Colibri Real Estate features for prelicensing classes. — Enroll in Maryland real estate courses (Source: Colibri Real Estate)

Colibri Real Estate offers state-approved prelicensing courses specifically designed for aspiring Maryland real estate agents. With flexible online options and comprehensive materials, Colibri helps you meet Maryland’s 60-hour education requirement from anywhere while also preparing you for the state licensing exam.

Visit Colibri Real Estate

Step 3: Pass the Maryland Real Estate License Exam

Cost: $44 per attempt
Time commitment:: 120 minutes
Helpful resource: 7 Hacks to Help You Ace Your Real Estate Exam and Maryland Candidate Information Bulletin

Test Format and Number of Questions	Multiple-choice format and 110 total questions 80 national exam questions 30 state-specific exam questions
Where to Register for Exam	PSI exams
Items to Bring to Testing Center	Two valid forms of ID (one government ID and one with your signature) Confirmation of exam appointment
Passing Grade	70% or higher

Once you’ve completed your prelicensing education, your real estate school will send your certificate to PSI, the company that administers the Maryland real estate exam. After they receive your information, you’ll get an email with instructions on creating an account and scheduling your exam. The exam fee is $44, which you can pay online using a credit or debit card. If you don’t pass the Maryland real estate exam on your first try, don’t worry—you can retake it! Just keep in mind that you’ll need to pay the exam fee for each attempt.

Step 4: Apply for a Maryland Real Estate License

Cost: $90
Time commitment:: 1 hour or less
Helpful resource: Maryland Real Estate Commission (MREC)

Once you’ve successfully passed the Maryland real estate exam, the next step is to apply for your real estate license. Submit your application online through the Maryland Real Estate Commission’s platform. The application fee is $90, and you must apply within one year of passing the exam to remain eligible.

The Maryland Real Estate Commission also requires applicants to demonstrate “good character and reputation.” Part of the application process involves a background check. While having a criminal record, such as a misdemeanor or felony, doesn’t automatically disqualify you, the commission considers all the circumstances of each case before making a final decision on granting the license.

Step 5: Join a Real Estate Brokerage

The final step in becoming a real estate agent in Maryland is to join a brokerage. When selecting one, be sure to ask about commission splits, as they can vary—some offer a 50-50 split, while others provide a higher cut in exchange for fees. You’ll also want to understand the brokerage’s “cap,” which limits how much they take from your commissions each year. Keep in mind that, as a commissioned salesperson, your income depends entirely on how much you sell, what type of sales agent you will be, and whether you start part-time to ease into the business.

Start looking for brokerages in the areas you’d like to work in to jump-start your new career. Check out our Best Real Estate Company to Work For in 2024 guide to learn about some of the larger firms.

Step 6: Start a Successful Career in Maryland

Now that you’ve got your license, it’s time to hit the ground running and build a successful real estate career! Here are some tips to help you start your journey as a successful salesperson in Maryland:

Build a strong network: Networking with other agents, lenders, and industry professionals is super important. Attend local real estate events and connect with mentors who can guide you.
Develop a marketing strategy: Use social media, create a professional website, and explore digital marketing tools to reach potential clients.
Stay educated: The market and laws are constantly changing. Keep learning by taking continuing education courses and staying updated with industry news.
Focus on building solid relationships: Providing excellent customer service is key to building long-term relationships and gaining referrals.
Manage your time wisely: Time management can make or break your success in real estate. Prioritize tasks and set daily goals to stay on top of your workload.

These steps will set you on the path to success as a new real estate agent!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Getting your real estate license in Maryland typically takes 2 to 3 months. The timeline depends on how quickly you can complete the 60-hour prelicensing course, pass the state exam, and find a sponsoring broker. Some people finish faster if they can dedicate more time to studying, while others take longer if they balance the course with other commitments.

The total cost to become a real estate agent in Maryland ranges between $500 and $800. This includes the prelicensing course, which typically costs $200 to $500, the $44 exam fee, and a $90 license application fee. Additional costs may include study materials and fees for background checks.

The Maryland real estate exam can be challenging, but with the right preparation, it’s definitely doable. You’ll need a 70% score to pass both the national and state sections of the exam. Many candidates find success after taking a solid exam prep course and practice exams.

The average real estate agent in Maryland makes about $64,500 per year, though this can vary widely based on experience, location, and sales volume. Top-performing agents and those in high-demand areas can earn significantly more.

Back to You

Now that you know the steps to get your real estate license in Maryland, it’s time to make your move. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take the next step in your career, this journey can be exciting and rewarding. With the right preparation and mindset, you’ll be ready to succeed in no time!

Shannon Sharpe

Shannon Sharpe is a multi-state licensed real estate broker with offices in North Carolina. She is a real estate subject matter expert focusing on a wide variety of real estate content including residential and commercial sales, property management, and investing. Upon completion of an MBA in Real Estate from Longwood University, she served as the Head of Brokerage at an accredited real estate firm focusing on compliance and growth. She is certified by the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) and holds a designation as a Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE). With almost 30 years of experience in the industry, she is passionate about sharing her wisdom with other professionals at all levels of their careers.