Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NY Board of Business
Real Estate Agent Licensing in New York
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for real estate agent in New York, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Real Estate Agent in New York
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
NYS Department of State • Division of Licensing Services • One Commerce Plaza
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$97,440 median (73% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#1 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in New York
With a median salary of 97,440, Real Estate Agents in New York earn 73% above the national median of $56,320. New York ranks #1 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.1%Average Weekly Wage
$1,739Median annual salary
$97,440Hourly estimate
$46.8573% above national median
Difference: +$41,120
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationReal Estate Agent Salary Ranking
#1 of 50 statesfor Real Estate Agent median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | New York | 97,440 |
| #2 | Alaska | 85,800 |
| #3 | Massachusetts | 85,170 |
| #4 | Vermont | 82,630 |
| #5 | New Mexico | 79,790 |
Nearby States Comparison
Real Estate Agent licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York | $97,440 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Vermont | $82,630 | Specific course required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Massachusetts | $85,170 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Connecticut | $45,670 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Jersey | $66,680 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $53,590 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York | 70 | Medium | Documented experience may be required. |
| Vermont | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Massachusetts | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Connecticut | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| New Jersey | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Pennsylvania | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
NYS Department of State • Division of Licensing Services • One Commerce Plaza
99 Washington Avenue, P.O. Box 22001, Albany, NY, 12201
Phone: 5184744429
Related Careers in New York
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $98,580 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $101,780 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $102,440 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $167,970 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Real Estate Agent in New York?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical Real Estate Agent salary in New York?
The median annual salary for Real Estate Agents in New York is 97,440. Salaries range from $35,810 (10th percentile) to $168,590 (90th percentile).
How does the Real Estate Agent salary in New York compare to the national average?
Real Estate Agents in New York earn 73% above the national median of $56,320, with a state median of 97,440.
How many Real Estate Agents work in New York?
New York employs approximately 10,040 Real Estate Agents according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Real Estate Agent license to New York from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Real Estate Agents in New York?
The licensing agency is NYS Department of State / Division of Licensing Services / One Commerce Plaza. Review agency details at https://www.dos.ny.gov/.