How to get a real estate license in Alabama
Alabama requires 60 hours of pre-licensing education, a state exam given by Pearson VUE, and a background check to become a salesperson.
Last checked October 2026. Official source: Alabama Real Estate Commission
- License
- Salesperson
- Pre-licensing education
- 60 hours
- State exam
- Pearson VUE. Expect a national section and a Alabama law section.
- Background check
- Fingerprint-based state and federal check through Fieldprint Alabama.
- Broker
- New licensees work under a licensed broker.
Featured Alabama real estate schools
The Alabama Real Estate Commission publishes the list of approved schools. Find approved schools
Run a Alabama real estate school? Feature your school here
Steps to get licensed in Alabama
- 1
Complete 60 hours of approved education
Take the pre-licensing course from a school approved by AREC.
- 2
Pass the state exam
Schedule with Pearson VUE once you're eligible. Expect a national section and a Alabama law section.
- 3
Complete the background check
Fingerprint-based state and federal check through Fieldprint Alabama.
- 4
Affiliate with a broker
Choose a licensed Alabama broker to work under. The broker is usually part of your application or license activation.
- 5
Apply for your license
Submit your application and fees to the Alabama Real Estate Commission.
Required courses
| Course | Hours |
|---|---|
| Pre-licensing course | 60 |
| Total | 60 |
State fees
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Estimated state feesExam, application, and background check combined. Confirm current amounts with AREC. | About $328 |
Course tuition is set by each school and isn't included.
After you're licensed
- Alabama first issues a temporary license good for one year.
- Complete 30 hours of post-licensing education, then apply for your original license before the temporary one expires.
- Check AREC for Alabama's current post-licensing, continuing education, and renewal requirements.
Licensed in another state?
Alabama offers reciprocity or license recognition for some out-of-state licensees. Check AREC for which states qualify and what you still need to complete.
Alabama real estate license FAQ
Who issues real estate licenses in Alabama?
The Alabama Real Estate Commission (AREC) issues the salesperson license in Alabama. Its official website is arec.alabama.gov.
How many hours of pre-licensing education does Alabama require?
Alabama requires 60 hours of approved pre-licensing education.
What courses do I need to take for a Alabama real estate license?
The required coursework is Pre-licensing course (60 hours).
What is the Alabama real estate exam like?
Pearson VUE. Expect a national section and a Alabama law section.
Is a background check required in Alabama?
Fingerprint-based state and federal check through Fieldprint Alabama.
Do I need a sponsoring broker to get licensed in Alabama?
New licensees work under a licensed broker.
How much does a Alabama real estate license cost?
State fees include estimated state fees (About $328). Course tuition is set by each school and is not included.
Can I transfer a real estate license from another state to Alabama?
Alabama offers reciprocity or license recognition for some out-of-state licensees. Check AREC for which states qualify and what you still need to complete.
What do I need to do after getting my Alabama real estate license?
Alabama first issues a temporary license good for one year. Complete 30 hours of post-licensing education, then apply for your original license before the temporary one expires. Check AREC for Alabama's current post-licensing, continuing education, and renewal requirements.
Get course info for Alabama
Tell us how to reach you and we'll connect you with an approved Alabama real estate school.
Requirements and fees change. Confirm the current rules with the Alabama Real Estate Commission before you enroll or apply.