What to Know About Real Estate Licensing and Credentials in Georgia

A complete guide to Georgia's real estate agent and broker licensing requirements, exams, renewals, and professional designations.

By Garret Merkley · Explainer · Jul 27, 2026

Quick take

Georgia agents must complete a 75-hour pre-license course and pass the state exam administered by the Georgia Real Estate Commission.
Broker licenses require three years of active experience plus 60 additional hours of education.
Licenses renew every two years with 24 hours of continuing education, including three hours on license law.
Optional national credentials such as ABR or CRS demonstrate specialized skills beyond basic licensing.

Real estate licensing in Georgia is the state's formal approval process that allows individuals to legally represent buyers and sellers in property transactions, while credentials refer to voluntary professional designations that signal advanced expertise.

How to Obtain a Salesperson License in Georgia

Applicants must be at least 18 years old, hold a high school diploma or GED, and complete a 75-hour pre-license course approved by the Georgia Real Estate Commission. After finishing the course, candidates submit fingerprints for a background check through the Georgia Crime Information Center and FBI, then pass the state licensing exam with a minimum score of 70 percent on both the national and state portions.

Broker License Requirements and Differences

A broker license demands at least three years of active salesperson experience within the prior five years, plus completion of a 60-hour broker course. Brokers can own their own firm, manage other agents, and hold trust accounts. The exam is longer and covers more advanced topics such as trust accounting and brokerage management.

Renewal, Continuing Education, and Inactive Status

All Georgia real estate licenses expire on the last day of the licensee's birth month every two years. Renewal requires 24 hours of approved continuing education, including a mandatory three-hour course on Georgia license law. Licensees who do not renew enter inactive status and cannot practice until requirements are met.

Licensing protects the public by ensuring minimum competency and ethical standards, while credentials help consumers identify agents with specialized training in areas such as luxury homes or relocation. These rules apply whenever someone wants to earn commissions on Georgia real estate transactions or advance their career beyond entry-level practice.

How long does it take to get a real estate license in Georgia?

Most people finish the 75-hour course in three to six weeks and can schedule the exam shortly after, so the entire process often takes two to three months including background checks.

Can I work in Georgia with a license from another state?

Georgia offers reciprocity only with states that have similar requirements; otherwise you must complete the full pre-license course and exam.

What happens if I let my license expire?

You enter inactive status and must complete all missed continuing education plus pay late fees to reactivate; after four years the license is canceled and you start over.

Are online courses accepted for pre-licensing?

Yes, as long as the provider is approved by the Georgia Real Estate Commission and the course includes the required 75 hours of instruction.