NEW YORK REAL ESTATE CAREER GUIDE
How to Get Started in Real Estate in New York
Thinking about a career in real estate? Here's what New York agents actually do, what it takes to get licensed, what it costs, and how to take your first step with a family-owned school that has trained New York agents since 1987.
IS IT RIGHT FOR YOU?
Why People Choose a Real Estate Career
Flexible Schedule
Many agents start part-time while keeping another job, then grow into real estate full-time as their business builds.
Income Tied to Effort
Agents typically earn commissions on closed transactions, so your income grows with your skills, network and effort.
Work That Matters
You guide people through one of the biggest decisions of their lives, helping them buy, sell or rent the right home.
77
Hours in the required course
70%
Needed to pass the state exam
$350
Self-paced course starting price
No Degree
Required to get licensed
THE PATH AT A GLANCE
Four Steps to Your New York License
1
Take the 77-Hour CourseComplete the state-approved salesperson course and pass the school's final exam. You must be at least 18.
2
Pass the State ExamSchedule the New York State exam while the material is fresh. The exam fee is $15.
3
Find a Sponsoring BrokerNew salespersons work under a licensed broker. How to choose one →
4
Apply Through eAccessNYSubmit your license application online with the Department of State.
CHOOSE YOUR COURSE
Start Your 77-Hour Salesperson Course
SELF-PACED
$350
Study online on your own schedule.
LICENSE-TO-LAUNCH™
$410
Today, then $60/month. Your course plus career-launch tools.
HYBRID LICENSE-TO-LAUNCH™
$585
Self-paced study with live instruction.
AFTER YOU'RE LICENSED
Keep Growing With Manfred
New York agents complete 22.5 hours of continuing education every two years. Manfred Membership covers unlimited eligible CE starting at $13.99 per month, and Member Plus adds National MLS tools and the National MLS Marketing Specialist™ certification to help you market listings and grow your business.
GETTING STARTED Q&A
Questions New Agents Ask
Q: How long does it take to get started in real estate in New York?
A: Many students finish the 77-hour course in a few weeks, depending on their schedule. Students who stay engaged and take the state exam right away usually get licensed fastest.
Q: How much does it cost to get a New York real estate license?
A: Manfred's self-paced course starts at $350. Add the $15 state exam fee and the state's license application fee.
Q: Do I need a college degree?
A: No. You need to be at least 18, complete the 77-hour course, pass the school and state exams, and find a sponsoring broker.
Q: Can I take the course online?
A: Yes. Choose a self-paced online course or a hybrid option that adds live instruction.
Q: Can I work in real estate part-time?
A: Yes. Many agents start part-time while working another job, then grow into real estate full-time.
Q: What score do I need to pass the state exam?
A: You need 70% on the 75-question New York State salesperson exam. See exam prep options →