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Real Estate Agent Licensing in Washington

Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for real estate agent in Washington, including See agency and board contact links.

Last verified: Feb 12, 2026

Application Fee

See agency

Exam Requirement

State exam required

Renewal Cycle

See board renewal rules

Licensing Blueprint for Real Estate Agent in Washington

Estimated timeline: 6-24 months

Core Requirements

  • License Type: Stand-alone license
  • Education: Specific course required
  • Examination: State exam required
  • Application Fee: See agency
  • Experience: Work experience required
  • Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
  • Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license

Application Snapshot

  1. Licensing Authority

    Department of Licensing

  2. Current Filing Fee

    See agency

  3. Renewal Cycle

    See board renewal rules

  4. Salary Position

    $76,980 median (37% above national)

  5. State Salary Rank

    #6 of 50 states

Step-by-Step Process (4)

  1. 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
  2. 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
  3. 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
  4. 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.

Salary Insights in Washington

With a median salary of 76,980, Real Estate Agents in Washington earn 37% above the national median of $56,320. Washington ranks #6 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.

Median annual salary

$76,980

Hourly estimate

$37.01
37% above national median

Difference: +$20,660

Percentile Distribution

Annual compensation
  • P1010th percentile$47,660
  • P2525th percentile$60,440
  • P50Median$76,980
  • P7575th percentile$97,730
  • P9090th percentile$128,470

State vs National Median

State: $76,980
National: $56,320

Total employment: 5,470 | Annual openings: N/A

Real Estate Agent Salary Ranking

#6 of 50 statesfor Real Estate Agent median salary
RankStateMedian Salary
#1New York97,440
#2Alaska85,800
#3Massachusetts85,170
#4Vermont82,630
#5New Mexico79,790

Nearby States Comparison

Real Estate Agent licensing across the region
StateMedian SalaryEducationExamTimeline
Washington$76,980Specific course requiredState exam required6-24 months
Idaho$37,090Specific course requiredState exam required6-24 months
Oregon$48,030Varies by state boardState-approved exam6-24 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.

StateReciprocity ScoreTierNotes
Washington50LowState-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required.
Idaho50LowState-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required.
Oregon78HighBoard-specific review required.
  • License status indicator: Active.
  • Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
  • Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.

Official Licensing Agency

Department of Licensing

2000 4th Ave W, Olympia, WA, 98502

Phone: 3606646488

Related Careers in Washington

ProfessionMedian SalaryEducationTimeline
Architect$97,800Degree required6-24 months
Certified Public Accountant$96,180Degree required6-24 months
Civil Engineer$105,090No educational requirements6-24 months
Financial Advisor$112,020Varies by state board6-24 months

FAQ

How long does it take to become a Real Estate Agent in Washington?

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 Washington?

Washington lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Real Estate Agents.

What education do you need to become a Real Estate Agent in Washington?

The board typically expects Specific course required for Real Estate Agent licensure in Washington.

What is the typical Real Estate Agent salary in Washington?

The median annual salary for Real Estate Agents in Washington is 76,980. Salaries range from $47,660 (10th percentile) to $128,470 (90th percentile).

How does the Real Estate Agent salary in Washington compare to the national average?

Real Estate Agents in Washington earn 37% above the national median of $56,320, with a state median of 76,980.

How many Real Estate Agents work in Washington?

Washington employs approximately 5,470 Real Estate Agents according to BLS data.

Can I transfer my Real Estate Agent license to Washington from another state?

Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.

Who is the licensing agency for Real Estate Agents in Washington?

The licensing agency is Department of Licensing. Review agency details at https://dol.wa.gov/about/contact-us/business-and-professional-licensing-contact-information.