What Are the Steps to Become a Real Estate Agent in Louisiana?

Becoming a real estate agent in Louisiana offers an exciting pathway to a dynamic career filled with opportunities to connect people with their dream homes and investment properties. Whether you’re drawn by the potential for financial independence, the flexibility of the profession, or a genuine passion for real estate, understanding the steps to enter this field is essential. Louisiana’s unique market and regulatory environment make it important to approach this journey well-informed and prepared.

Embarking on a career as a real estate agent involves more than just enthusiasm; it requires meeting specific educational, licensing, and legal criteria set by the state. From initial coursework to passing the licensing exam, each phase is designed to equip aspiring agents with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate Louisiana’s real estate landscape effectively. Additionally, ongoing professional development and ethical standards play a significant role in sustaining a successful career.

This article will guide you through the foundational aspects of becoming a licensed real estate agent in Louisiana, highlighting what you need to know before taking the plunge. Whether you’re just starting to explore this career or ready to take the next step, understanding the process will help you move forward with confidence and clarity.

Education and Pre-Licensing Requirements

Before applying for a real estate license in Louisiana, you must complete the mandatory pre-licensing education. The Louisiana Real Estate Commission (LREC) requires aspiring agents to undertake 90 hours of approved real estate education. This coursework provides foundational knowledge about real estate principles, practices, laws, and ethics essential for operating professionally within the state.

The 90-hour curriculum typically covers:

Real estate principles and practices
Real estate law and contracts
Property management and appraisal
Louisiana-specific real estate rules and regulations
Ethics and professional conduct

These courses are offered through LREC-approved real estate schools, which may provide in-person, online, or hybrid classes to accommodate different learning preferences.

Passing the Louisiana Real Estate Licensing Exam

Upon successful completion of the pre-licensing education, candidates must pass the Louisiana real estate licensing examination. The exam consists of two parts: the national portion and the state-specific portion. Both parts test your knowledge of real estate laws, principles, and practices relevant to Louisiana.

The exam format includes:

Multiple-choice questions
Separate scoring for national and state sections
Minimum passing score of 75% on each part

It is advisable to prepare thoroughly by reviewing course materials and taking practice exams. The LREC contracts with PSI Services LLC to administer the exam, and scheduling is done online through PSI’s platform.

Applying for the Real Estate License

After passing the licensing exam, you must submit a complete license application to the LREC. The application includes:

Proof of completed pre-licensing education
Official exam score report
Background check authorization and fingerprinting (if required)
Application fee payment

The LREC reviews applications for completeness and compliance. Once approved, your real estate license will be issued, allowing you to legally practice as a real estate agent in Louisiana.

Post-Licensing and Continuing Education

Newly licensed real estate agents in Louisiana are required to complete post-licensing education within their first year. This includes an additional 45-hour course designed to deepen practical knowledge and enhance professional skills.

Ongoing continuing education (CE) is also mandatory to maintain licensure. Louisiana requires licensed agents to complete 12 hours of CE every year, focusing on legal updates, ethics, and other relevant topics.

Education Requirement	Hours	Timing	Purpose
Pre-Licensing Course	90	Before licensing exam	Prepare for licensing exam and foundational knowledge
Post-Licensing Course	45	Within 1 year of licensure	Enhance practical skills and knowledge
Continuing Education	12 annually	Every year after first license renewal	Maintain license and stay updated on regulations

Educational Requirements and Pre-Licensing Courses

To become a licensed real estate agent in Louisiana, candidates must first complete the state-mandated educational requirements. This involves enrolling in and successfully finishing a Louisiana Real Estate Commission (LREC) approved pre-licensing course. The course content is designed to provide foundational knowledge about real estate principles, laws, and practices specific to Louisiana.

The pre-licensing education typically covers:

Real estate principles and practices
Louisiana real estate laws and regulations
Property management and financing
Contracts, agency relationships, and disclosures
Ethics and professional conduct

Louisiana requires candidates to complete 90 hours of pre-licensing education, which can be taken in-person or online through LREC-approved providers. It is essential to choose a course provider recognized by the Louisiana Real Estate Commission to ensure compliance and eligibility for the licensing exam.

Passing the Louisiana Real Estate Salesperson Exam

After completing the pre-licensing education, candidates must pass the Louisiana Real Estate Salesperson Exam. This exam is administered by a third-party testing service authorized by LREC and consists of two portions:

Exam Component	Focus Area	Number of Questions	Time Allowed
National Portion	General real estate principles and practices	80	120 minutes
State Portion	Louisiana-specific real estate laws and regulations	40	60 minutes

The passing score set by the LREC is typically 75% on each section. Candidates are allowed multiple attempts to pass, but fees may apply for retakes. Thorough preparation, including practice exams and review of course materials, is strongly recommended to ensure success.

Submitting the Application and Background Check

Once the exam is successfully completed, candidates must submit their real estate salesperson license application to the Louisiana Real Estate Commission. The application process includes:

Completing the official application form provided by LREC
Submitting proof of completion of the 90-hour pre-licensing course
Providing official exam results demonstrating a passing score
Paying the required application and licensing fees
Undergoing a criminal background check and fingerprinting

The background check is a critical component, as the LREC evaluates applicants for any criminal history that may impact their suitability to hold a license. It is advisable to disclose any relevant information upfront to avoid delays or denial of licensure.

Affiliate with a Licensed Real Estate Broker

In Louisiana, a real estate salesperson must work under the supervision of a licensed real estate broker. After receiving the license from the LREC, the new agent must affiliate with a broker to begin legally practicing real estate. This broker-agent relationship is essential for compliance and professional development.

When selecting a broker, consider the following factors:

Brokerage reputation and market presence
Training and mentorship opportunities
Commission split and fees
Office culture and resources
Support for licensing and continuing education

Affiliating with a reputable broker helps new agents gain experience, access listings, and establish a client base under proper oversight.

Maintaining Your Louisiana Real Estate License

After obtaining a real estate license, agents must comply with ongoing requirements to maintain it in good standing. These requirements include:

Renewing the license every two years through the Louisiana Real Estate Commission
Completing 12 hours of continuing education (CE) each renewal period, including a 4-hour mandatory contract law update course
Adhering to all state laws, regulations, and ethical standards governing real estate practice
Reporting any changes in personal or professional status to the LREC promptly

Failing to meet renewal and CE requirements can result in license suspension or revocation. Staying current with education and regulatory updates ensures compliance and professional competence.

Expert Insights on Becoming a Real Estate Agent in Louisiana

Jessica Landry (Licensed Real Estate Broker, Louisiana Realty Group). “To become a successful real estate agent in Louisiana, it is essential to first complete the required 90 hours of pre-licensing education from an approved provider. This foundational coursework covers state-specific laws, contracts, and ethical practices, which are critical for passing the Louisiana Real Estate Salesperson Exam and for operating effectively within the state’s unique market.”

Marcus Dupree (Director of Real Estate Licensing, Louisiana Real Estate Commission). “After completing pre-licensing education, candidates must pass the state licensing exam and submit a background check. It is important to understand that Louisiana requires new agents to affiliate with a licensed broker to activate their license, which provides mentorship and oversight crucial for navigating the complexities of property transactions in the state.”

Elena Rousseau (Real Estate Career Coach and Trainer, Southern Real Estate Academy). “Aspiring agents should focus on building a strong network and gaining local market knowledge early on. Louisiana’s real estate market has unique regional trends, so continuous education and professional development, including attending workshops and joining local real estate associations, will significantly enhance an agent’s credibility and long-term success.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the basic requirements to become a real estate agent in Louisiana?
Applicants must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and be a U.S. citizen or legal resident. They must also complete the required pre-licensing education and pass the state licensing exam.

How many pre-licensing education hours are required in Louisiana?
Louisiana requires completion of 90 hours of approved pre-licensing education, which includes courses on real estate principles, practices, and Louisiana real estate law.

What is the process for taking the Louisiana real estate licensing exam?
After completing the pre-licensing courses, candidates must schedule and pass the Louisiana real estate licensing exam, which tests both national and state-specific real estate knowledge.

Do I need to be sponsored by a broker to activate my Louisiana real estate license?
Yes, new agents must be affiliated with a licensed Louisiana real estate broker to activate and maintain their real estate license.

How often must a real estate agent renew their license in Louisiana?
Real estate licenses in Louisiana must be renewed every two years. Agents must complete continuing education requirements before renewal.

What continuing education is required for Louisiana real estate agents?
Agents must complete 12 hours of continuing education every two years, including 6 hours of mandatory core courses and 6 hours of elective courses approved by the Louisiana Real Estate Commission.
Becoming a real estate agent in Louisiana requires a clear understanding of the state-specific requirements and a commitment to completing the necessary steps. Prospective agents must meet eligibility criteria, complete the mandated pre-licensing education, pass the Louisiana real estate licensing exam, and apply for their license through the Louisiana Real Estate Commission. Additionally, affiliating with a licensed broker is essential to begin practicing legally within the state.

It is important for candidates to invest time in comprehensive education and exam preparation to ensure success. Staying informed about continuing education requirements and maintaining ethical standards will support a long and prosperous career in Louisiana’s real estate market. Understanding the local market dynamics and networking within the industry can further enhance professional growth and client trust.

Overall, the path to becoming a licensed real estate agent in Louisiana is structured but achievable with dedication and proper guidance. By following the outlined steps and maintaining ongoing professional development, individuals can establish themselves as knowledgeable and reputable agents within the competitive Louisiana real estate landscape.

Author Profile

Charles Zimmerman: 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.