How Do I Get My Real Estate License in Nevada? Step-by-Step Guide
If you’ve ever dreamed of launching a career in real estate in the vibrant state of Nevada, obtaining your real estate license is the essential first step. Whether you’re drawn by the allure of Las Vegas’s bustling market or the scenic opportunities across the Silver State, becoming a licensed real estate professional opens doors to exciting possibilities. But before you can start helping clients buy or sell properties, you need to understand the process and requirements unique to Nevada.
Navigating the path to a Nevada real estate license involves several key stages, from education and examinations to application procedures and compliance with state regulations. Each step is designed to ensure that aspiring agents are well-prepared to represent clients ethically and effectively in a competitive market. Understanding these foundational elements will give you the confidence to move forward and set yourself up for success.
In the following sections, we will explore what it takes to earn your Nevada real estate license, highlighting the essential qualifications and general steps involved. Whether you’re just starting out or considering a career change, this overview will help you grasp the journey ahead and what to expect as you embark on your real estate career in Nevada.
Educational Requirements and Pre-Licensing Courses
Before you can take the Nevada real estate licensing exam, you must complete the mandatory pre-licensing education. Nevada requires applicants to complete 90 hours of approved real estate education from a state-approved provider. This coursework covers essential topics such as real estate principles, practices, contracts, finance, and Nevada-specific laws and regulations.
The 90-hour pre-licensing course is typically divided into two parts:
- 45 hours of Real Estate Principles: Covers foundational concepts including property ownership, types of real estate, and basic real estate math.
- 45 hours of Real Estate Practice: Focuses on practical applications such as agency relationships, contracts, financing, and ethical considerations.
Many providers offer these courses in flexible formats including in-person classes, online self-paced courses, and live webinars. It’s important to select a course provider approved by the Nevada Real Estate Division (NRED) to ensure compliance with state requirements.
Applying for the Real Estate License Exam
Once you complete the required education, the next step is to apply for the Nevada real estate salesperson examination. You must submit your application to the Nevada Real Estate Division along with the necessary documentation and fees.
Key components of the application process include:
- Completion of the 90-hour pre-licensing education.
- Submission of a completed application form.
- Payment of the exam and licensing fees.
- Providing proof of identity and residency.
- Undergoing a background check, including fingerprinting.
After your application is reviewed and approved, you will receive authorization to schedule your licensing exam. The exam is administered by a third-party testing service, and you can typically select a convenient testing date and location.
Understanding the Nevada Real Estate Exam
The Nevada real estate licensing exam tests your knowledge of both national real estate principles and Nevada-specific laws and practices. The exam consists of two portions: a national section and a state-specific section.
Exam Section | Number of Questions | Time Allowed | Passing Score |
---|---|---|---|
National Portion | 80 multiple-choice questions | 2 hours | 75% or higher |
Nevada State Portion | 40 multiple-choice questions | 1 hour | 75% or higher |
The exam content includes topics such as contracts, agency law, property ownership, financing, disclosures, and state-specific regulations. It is important to prepare thoroughly using official exam prep materials and practice tests to familiarize yourself with the question formats and time constraints.
Post-Exam Steps and License Activation
After passing both portions of the exam, you must submit a license activation form and pay the appropriate fees to the Nevada Real Estate Division. Additionally, you must affiliate with a licensed Nevada real estate broker before your license becomes active.
Key points to consider:
- License activation must be completed within 1 year of passing the exam.
- You must provide the broker’s name and license number as part of the activation.
- If you do not activate your license within the designated period, you may need to retake the exam.
- Your broker will serve as your sponsor and oversee your real estate activities.
Continuing Education and License Renewal
Maintaining your Nevada real estate license requires ongoing education and periodic renewal. Nevada mandates continuing education to ensure licensees stay current with industry changes and regulatory updates.
Requirements include:
- Completion of 24 hours of continuing education every two years.
- Courses must include 3 hours of Nevada Law and 3 hours of Ethics.
- Renewal fees must be paid before the license expiration date to avoid late penalties or license expiration.
- License expiration occurs if renewal is not completed on time, requiring reinstatement procedures.
Staying compliant with continuing education and renewal requirements is critical for maintaining active status and eligibility to practice as a real estate professional in Nevada.
Requirements to Qualify for a Real Estate License in Nevada
To obtain a real estate license in Nevada, candidates must meet specific eligibility criteria as outlined by the Nevada Real Estate Division (NRED). These requirements ensure that applicants are prepared to enter the profession with a foundational level of knowledge and professionalism.
- Age: Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
- Residency: There is no state residency requirement; non-residents can apply.
- Education: Completion of the required pre-licensing education is mandatory.
- Background Check: Applicants must submit fingerprints for a criminal background check.
- Legal Status: Must be legally eligible to work in the United States.
Complete the Required Pre-Licensing Education
Nevada mandates completion of a 90-hour pre-licensing course covering essential real estate principles, laws, and practices. This education prepares candidates for the state licensing exam and provides foundational knowledge for their real estate careers.
Course Component | Hours | Description |
---|---|---|
Real Estate Principles | 45 | Covers basic concepts, property ownership, contracts, and financing. |
Real Estate Law | 45 | Focuses on Nevada real estate laws, ethics, and agency relationships. |
Courses must be approved by the NRED and can be completed through accredited real estate schools either in-person or online. Upon completion, students receive a certificate which is necessary to apply for the licensing exam.
Pass the Nevada Real Estate Licensing Exam
After completing the pre-licensing coursework, candidates must successfully pass the Nevada Real Estate Salesperson Exam. The exam tests knowledge of both national real estate principles and state-specific laws.
- Exam Format: The exam typically consists of approximately 120 multiple-choice questions.
- Time Limit: Candidates are usually given around 3.5 hours to complete the exam.
- Passing Score: A minimum score of 75% is required to pass.
- Scheduling: Exams are scheduled through authorized testing centers and require prior approval from the NRED.
Candidates who fail the exam may retake it after a waiting period as specified by the NRED, ensuring adequate time for further study.
Submit Your Application and Required Documentation
Once the exam is passed, applicants must submit a formal license application to the Nevada Real Estate Division. This step involves multiple components to verify the applicant’s qualifications and legal standing.
Required Documentation | Description |
---|---|
Completed Application Form | Official real estate salesperson license application provided by the NRED. |
Fingerprint Card | Used for a thorough criminal background check; must be processed via authorized vendors. |
Pre-Licensing Education Certificate | Proof of completion of the 90-hour course. |
Exam Results | Official documentation confirming passing the licensing exam. |
Application Fee | Non-refundable fee payable to the NRED (amount subject to change). |
Applications can be submitted online or by mail. Accuracy and completeness are crucial to avoid delays in processing.
Affiliate with a Licensed Real Estate Broker
Before the Nevada Real Estate Division issues the salesperson license, the applicant must affiliate with a licensed real estate broker. This affiliation is a legal requirement for new salespersons to practice real estate in the state.
- The broker acts as the supervising party, providing mentorship and oversight.
- Applicants should seek brokers whose specialties align with their career goals.
- Brokerage affiliation must be documented and reported to the NRED to activate the license.
Maintain Your Real Estate License through Continuing Education
Nevada requires licensees to complete continuing education (CE) courses to renew their licenses and stay current with industry laws and practices.
Renewal Period | CE Hours Required | Course Topics |
---|---|---|
Every 2 Years | 30 Hours | Includes mandatory courses on Nevada real estate law, ethics, and general real estate topics. |
Failure to meet CE requirements can result in license suspension or revocation. Renewal applications must be submitted alongside proof of completed CE.
Expert Insights on Obtaining a Real Estate License in Nevada
Jessica Martinez (Nevada Real Estate Education Specialist, Silver State Realty Academy). Obtaining a real estate license in Nevada requires completing 90 hours of pre-licensing education from an approved provider, passing the state exam, and submitting a fingerprint-based background check. Candidates must also be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent. It is essential to thoroughly prepare for the exam by focusing on both national and state-specific real estate laws to ensure success.
David Chen (Licensed Real Estate Broker, Nevada Association of Realtors). The licensing process in Nevada emphasizes not only education but also practical experience. After passing the exam, new licensees must work under a licensed broker to gain hands-on experience. This mentorship phase is critical for understanding local market dynamics and regulatory compliance. Additionally, maintaining your license requires completing continuing education every two years to stay current with evolving real estate practices.
Laura Simmons (Real Estate Licensing Consultant, Nevada Division of Real Estate). Navigating the application process efficiently is key to obtaining your Nevada real estate license. Applicants should ensure all documentation, including proof of education, exam results, and background checks, are accurately submitted through the Nevada Division of Real Estate’s online portal. Being proactive about meeting deadlines and understanding the state’s licensing requirements can significantly reduce processing times and facilitate a smoother entry into the real estate profession.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the basic requirements to apply for a real estate license in Nevada?
Applicants must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and be a legal U.S. resident or have legal work authorization.
How many pre-licensing education hours are required in Nevada?
Nevada requires completion of 90 hours of approved pre-licensing education before applying for the licensing exam.
What does the Nevada real estate licensing exam consist of?
The exam includes both national and state-specific sections, testing knowledge of real estate principles, laws, and practices.
How do I apply to take the Nevada real estate licensing exam?
After completing pre-licensing education, applicants must submit an application to the Nevada Real Estate Division along with the required fees and fingerprints for a background check.
Is sponsorship by a broker required to obtain a real estate license in Nevada?
Yes, after passing the exam, applicants must be sponsored by a licensed Nevada real estate broker to activate their license.
How often must I renew my Nevada real estate license?
Nevada real estate licenses must be renewed every two years, with continuing education requirements to maintain active status.
Obtaining a real estate license in Nevada involves a series of clearly defined steps designed to ensure candidates are well-prepared for a career in the industry. Prospective agents must complete the required 90 hours of pre-licensing education from an approved provider, pass the Nevada real estate licensing exam, and submit a thorough application along with a background check. Additionally, candidates must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent to qualify for licensure.
Understanding the licensing process is crucial for success, as it not only confirms your eligibility but also equips you with the foundational knowledge necessary to navigate Nevada’s real estate market effectively. After obtaining the license, new agents should focus on affiliating with a licensed brokerage to begin practicing legally and gain practical experience. Continuing education requirements also play a vital role in maintaining the license and staying updated with industry changes.
In summary, securing a real estate license in Nevada requires commitment to education, passing the state exam, and adhering to regulatory standards. By following these steps diligently, aspiring real estate professionals can confidently enter the field and build a successful career. Staying informed about state-specific requirements and ongoing education will ensure long-term compliance and professional growth within Nevada’s dynamic real estate environment.
Author Profile

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Charles Zimmerman is the founder and writer behind South Light Property, a blog dedicated to making real estate easier to understand. Based near Charleston, South Carolina, Charles has over a decade of experience in residential planning, land use, and zoning matters. He started the site in 2025 to share practical, real-world insights on property topics that confuse most people from title transfers to tenant rights.
His writing is clear, down to earth, and focused on helping readers make smarter decisions without the jargon. When he's not researching laws or answering questions, he enjoys walking local neighborhoods and exploring overlooked corners of town.
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