Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NC Board of Business
Real Estate Agent Licensing in North Carolina
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for real estate agent in North Carolina, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
No exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Real Estate Agent in North Carolina
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Secondary license (another license is a prerequisite)
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: No exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
NC Real Estate Commission • Education and Licensing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$47,840 median (15% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#38 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 North Carolina
With a median salary of 47,840, Real Estate Agents in North Carolina earn 15% below the national median of $56,320. North Carolina ranks #38 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$47,840Hourly estimate
$23.0015% below national median
Difference: -$8,480
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationReal Estate Agent Salary Ranking
#38 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | $47,840 | Varies by state board | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $61,790 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $56,320 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $56,190 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| South Carolina | $49,990 | Specific course 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Virginia | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Georgia | 33 | Low | Limited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| South Carolina | 54 | 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
NC Real Estate Commission • Education and Licensing
1313 Navaho Drive, Raleigh, NC, 27609-7460
Phone: 9198753700ext193
Related Careers in North Carolina
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $87,990 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $80,490 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $93,590 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $102,140 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Real Estate Agent in North Carolina?
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 exams are required for Real Estate Agents in North Carolina?
North Carolina lists No exam required as part of the licensure process for Real Estate Agents.
What is the typical Real Estate Agent salary in North Carolina?
The median annual salary for Real Estate Agents in North Carolina is 47,840. Salaries range from $26,160 (10th percentile) to $113,730 (90th percentile).
How does the Real Estate Agent salary in North Carolina compare to the national average?
Real Estate Agents in North Carolina earn 15% below the national median of $56,320, with a state median of 47,840.
How many Real Estate Agents work in North Carolina?
North Carolina employs approximately 10,140 Real Estate Agents according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Real Estate Agent license to North Carolina 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 North Carolina?
The licensing agency is NC Real Estate Commission / Education and Licensing. Review agency details at https://www.ncrec.gov/Resources/LicenseLaw.