What Are the Steps to Become a Realtor in Las Vegas?

Becoming a realtor in Las Vegas offers an exciting opportunity to dive into one of the most dynamic real estate markets in the country. Whether you’re drawn by the city’s vibrant lifestyle, booming housing developments, or the chance to help others find their dream homes, a career in real estate here can be both rewarding and lucrative. But before you can start showing properties and closing deals, there are important steps and requirements to navigate.

Entering the real estate profession in Las Vegas means understanding the unique local market as well as meeting state-mandated licensing criteria. It’s a journey that blends education, testing, and practical experience, all designed to prepare you for success in this competitive field. Aspiring realtors must be ready to commit time and effort to build a strong foundation, ensuring they are knowledgeable, ethical, and well-equipped to serve clients effectively.

This article will guide you through the essential aspects of becoming a licensed realtor in Las Vegas, providing a clear overview of the process and what to expect along the way. Whether you’re just starting to explore this career path or ready to take the first step, the information ahead will help you confidently move toward your goal of joining the ranks of Nevada’s real estate professionals.

Complete Required Pre-Licensing Education

Before you can sit for the Nevada real estate licensing exam, you must complete the state-mandated pre-licensing education. This education provides foundational knowledge on real estate principles, practices, and Nevada-specific laws and regulations. The Nevada Real Estate Division requires 90 hours of coursework from an accredited provider.

The coursework typically covers:

Real estate principles and practices
Nevada real estate law and regulations
Property management
Financing and appraisal basics
Contracts and disclosures
Ethics and fair housing laws

Courses can be taken in-person or online, depending on your preference and schedule. It is important to choose a provider approved by the Nevada Real Estate Division to ensure your education meets all licensing requirements.

Pass the Nevada Real Estate Licensing Exam

After completing your pre-licensing education, the next step is to pass the Nevada Real Estate Salesperson Exam. The exam tests your understanding of both national real estate concepts and Nevada-specific laws. It consists of two portions:

National portion: 80 questions
State portion: 40 questions

You must score at least 75% on each part to pass. The exam is administered by PSI Services, and you can schedule your test online once your education provider has submitted your course completion documentation.

To prepare effectively, consider the following study tips:

Review course materials and key concepts thoroughly
Take practice exams to familiarize yourself with question formats
Focus on Nevada laws, as they differ from other states
Use flashcards for important terms and definitions

Submit Your License Application

Once you pass the licensing exam, you will need to submit your application for a Nevada real estate salesperson license. The application process includes:

Completing the official application form through the Nevada Real Estate Division’s online portal
Submitting fingerprints for a background check via an approved vendor
Paying the required licensing fees, which cover application processing and fingerprinting
Providing proof of completion of the required pre-licensing education and exam results

It is important to ensure all documentation is accurate and complete to avoid delays. The Division typically processes applications within a few weeks.

Application Component	Details	Fee
Application Submission	Online submission of license application form	$120
Fingerprinting & Background Check	Electronic submission via approved vendor	$50-$60
License Issuance Fee	Paid upon approval of application	$100

Find a Nevada Real Estate Broker to Sponsor You

Nevada law requires new real estate salespersons to work under the supervision of a licensed real estate broker. Choosing the right broker is a critical step in your real estate career because your broker will provide mentorship, guidance, and access to listings and resources.

When selecting a broker, consider these factors:

Broker’s reputation and market presence in Las Vegas
Commission split structure and fees
Training and support programs available for new agents
Office culture and technology tools provided
Compatibility with your career goals and work style

It is advisable to interview several brokers before making a decision. Establishing a strong professional relationship with your sponsoring broker will help you succeed as you begin working with clients.

Complete Post-Licensing Requirements

After obtaining your salesperson license, Nevada requires new licensees to complete post-licensing education within the first year. This requirement ensures you deepen your knowledge and gain practical skills early in your career.

The post-licensing education includes:

30 hours of approved coursework covering advanced real estate topics
Emphasis on contracts, negotiation, risk management, and agency relationships
Mandatory completion within one year of license issuance

Failure to complete the post-licensing education on time can result in license suspension or non-renewal. Many brokers also provide additional training during this period to help new agents build confidence and professionalism.

Maintain Your License with Continuing Education

To keep your Nevada real estate license active, you must complete continuing education (CE) every two years before license renewal. The Nevada Real Estate Division mandates 24 hours of CE, which must include:

12 hours of mandatory core courses covering legal updates, ethics, and risk management
12 hours of elective courses chosen based on your interests and specialty areas

Continuing education helps you stay current with changing laws, market trends, and best practices. Many online and in-person providers offer convenient CE options tailored to working professionals.

Continuing Education Requirement	Details	Hours
Mandatory Core Courses	Legal updates, ethics, risk management	12
Elective Courses	Specialty topics such as commercial real estate, property management, marketing	12

Educational Requirements and Pre-Licensing Courses

To become a licensed realtor in Las Vegas, Nevada, you must first complete the state-mandated educational requirements. This process ensures you have a comprehensive understanding of real estate principles, laws, and practices specific to Nevada.

The Nevada Real Estate Division requires prospective real estate agents to complete 90 hours of pre-licensing education. This coursework is divided into three essential classes:

Real Estate Principles (45 hours): Covers basic concepts such as property ownership, contracts, financing, and agency relationships.
Real Estate Law (30 hours): Focuses on Nevada real estate laws, including licensing laws, property disclosures, and landlord-tenant regulations.
Real Estate Practice (15 hours): Emphasizes practical skills including listing agreements, marketing, and transaction processes.

These courses can be completed through various approved real estate schools, either in-person or online, offering flexibility to accommodate different schedules.

Passing the Nevada Real Estate Exam

After completing the pre-licensing education, the next step is to pass the Nevada real estate licensing exam. This exam is administered by PSI Services LLC and tests your knowledge of both national real estate principles and Nevada-specific laws.

Exam Component	Number of Questions	Time Allotted	Passing Score
National Portion	80	2 hours	75%
State Portion (Nevada)	40	1 hour	75%

To prepare effectively for the exam, candidates should review the course material thoroughly and consider practice tests offered by approved schools or third-party providers. It is important to schedule the exam promptly after completing coursework to maintain knowledge retention.

Application for Nevada Real Estate License

Upon passing the licensing exam, you must submit a formal application to the Nevada Real Estate Division to receive your real estate license. The application process involves several key steps:

Fingerprinting and Background Check: Submit fingerprints for a criminal background check through the approved vendor as required by the Nevada Division.
Submit Application Form: Complete the Application for Real Estate Salesperson License, available on the Nevada Real Estate Division website.
Pay Application Fees: The total fees include the license application fee and fingerprint processing fee, typically amounting to several hundred dollars.
Provide Proof of Pre-Licensing Education and Exam Results: Attach certificates of course completion and exam passing scores.

The processing time for the license application generally takes a few weeks. Once approved, the Division issues the official real estate salesperson license, which permits you to begin working under a Nevada-licensed broker.

Affiliating with a Real Estate Brokerage

State law requires that all licensed real estate salespersons in Nevada work under the supervision of a licensed broker. Selecting the right brokerage is a critical step in launching your career as a realtor in Las Vegas.

When choosing a brokerage, consider these factors:

Reputation and Market Presence: A well-established brokerage can provide valuable brand recognition and client leads.
Training and Mentorship Programs: Many brokerages offer ongoing education and support for new agents.
Commission Structure: Understand the splits, fees, and any desk or technology fees involved.
Company Culture and Resources: Evaluate how the brokerage’s values and tools align with your professional goals.

After selecting a brokerage, you must complete any additional paperwork required by the broker and notify the Nevada Real Estate Division of your affiliation to activate your license.

Continuing Education and License Renewal

To maintain your Nevada real estate license, you must comply with continuing education (CE) requirements and timely renew your license every two years. The Nevada Real Estate Division mandates:

Continuing Education Hours: Complete 24 hours of CE courses within the two-year license period, including at least 3 hours of Nevada Law and 3 hours of Ethics.
Renewal Application: Submit a renewal application and fee before the license expiration date, which occurs on the last day of the licensee’s birth month.

Failure to meet CE requirements or renew on time can result in license suspension or expiration, requiring reinstatement procedures.

Expert Insights on Becoming a Realtor in Las Vegas

Jessica Martinez (Licensed Real Estate Broker, Nevada Realty Group). Becoming a realtor in Las Vegas requires a clear understanding of the state-specific licensing process. Prospective agents must complete 90 hours of pre-licensing education approved by the Nevada Real Estate Division, pass the state and national portions of the licensing exam, and then affiliate with a licensed broker. Additionally, staying informed about the local market trends and networking within the Las Vegas real estate community is essential for long-term success.

David Chen (Real Estate Educator, Las Vegas Real Estate Academy). The path to becoming a successful realtor in Las Vegas begins with comprehensive education and preparation. Candidates should invest in quality pre-licensing courses that cover Nevada real estate laws, contracts, and ethics. After passing the licensing exam, continuous professional development through additional certifications and specialized training in areas such as luxury homes or commercial properties can significantly enhance a realtor’s competitive edge in this dynamic market.

Monica Alvarez (Managing Broker, Silver State Realty). In Las Vegas, the real estate market is highly competitive and fast-paced, so new realtors must prioritize building a strong professional network. Joining local real estate associations like the Greater Las Vegas Association of Realtors provides valuable resources, mentorship opportunities, and access to multiple listing services (MLS). Furthermore, mastering digital marketing and client relationship management tools is crucial to establishing credibility and growing a client base in this vibrant city.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the basic requirements to become a realtor in Las Vegas?
You must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or equivalent, complete the required pre-licensing education, and pass the Nevada real estate licensing exam.

How many hours of pre-licensing education are required in Nevada?
Nevada requires 90 hours of approved pre-licensing education before you can sit for the licensing exam.

What is the process to take the Nevada real estate licensing exam?
After completing the pre-licensing courses, you must apply to take the exam through the Nevada Real Estate Division, schedule your exam, and pass both the national and state portions.

Do I need to work with a brokerage to become a licensed realtor in Las Vegas?
Yes, after passing the exam, you must affiliate with a licensed Nevada real estate brokerage to activate your license and legally practice as a realtor.

Are there continuing education requirements to maintain a realtor license in Nevada?
Yes, Nevada requires 24 hours of continuing education every two years, including specific courses on agency, ethics, and Nevada real estate laws.

How long does it typically take to become a licensed realtor in Las Vegas?
The process usually takes 3 to 6 months, depending on how quickly you complete the education, pass the exam, and secure a brokerage affiliation.
Becoming a realtor in Las Vegas involves a clear and structured process that begins with meeting the state’s eligibility requirements, including age and residency criteria. Prospective realtors must complete the required pre-licensing education, which typically consists of 90 hours of approved coursework. Following this, candidates must pass the Nevada real estate licensing exam to demonstrate their knowledge of real estate principles, laws, and practices specific to the state.

After successfully passing the exam, aspiring realtors need to submit their application along with the necessary fees and background check to the Nevada Real Estate Division. Securing sponsorship from a licensed Nevada real estate broker is also essential, as this enables new agents to legally practice and gain valuable experience under professional guidance. Continuing education is required to maintain the license, ensuring that realtors stay current with industry changes and best practices.

Key takeaways for those looking to become a realtor in Las Vegas include the importance of thorough preparation for the licensing exam, understanding the local real estate market, and building a strong network through brokerage affiliation. Commitment to ongoing education and ethical standards will contribute significantly to long-term success in this competitive industry. By following these steps diligently, individuals can establish a rewarding career as a licensed realtor in Las Vegas.

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.