Application Fee
See board websiteVerified by NC Board of Business
Real Estate Broker Licensing in North Carolina
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for real estate broker in North Carolina, including See board website and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Real Estate Broker in North Carolina
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See board website
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
NC Real Estate Commission • Education and Licensing
- Current Filing Fee
See board website
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$62,660 median (13% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#34 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet North Carolina eligibility requirements for Real Estate Broker licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass the required examination: State exam required.
- 4. Submit your application to the NC Real Estate Commission~Education and Licensing.
Salary Insights in North Carolina
With a median salary of 62,660, Real Estate Brokers in North Carolina earn 13% below the national median of 72280. North Carolina ranks #34 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$62,660Hourly estimate
$30.1313% below national median
Difference: -$9,620
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationReal Estate Broker Salary Ranking
#34 of 50 statesfor Real Estate Broker median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Iowa | 116,920 |
| #2 | Massachusetts | 112,180 |
| #3 | New York | 94,170 |
| #4 | New Jersey | 92,890 |
| #5 | Connecticut | 90,910 |
Nearby States Comparison
Real Estate Broker licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | $62,660 | Varies by state board | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $55,660 | No educational requirements | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $66,670 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $72,280 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| South Carolina | $54,300 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 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 | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Georgia | 43 | Low | Limited or restricted active licensing status. |
| South Carolina | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board.
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 Broker 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 Brokers in North Carolina?
North Carolina lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Real Estate Brokers.
What is the typical Real Estate Broker salary in North Carolina?
The median annual salary for Real Estate Brokers in North Carolina is 62,660. Salaries range from 32250 (10th percentile) to 137390 (90th percentile).
How does the Real Estate Broker salary in North Carolina compare to the national average?
Real Estate Brokers in North Carolina earn 13% below the national median of 72280, with a state median of 62,660.
How many Real Estate Brokers work in North Carolina?
North Carolina employs approximately 1330 Real Estate Brokers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Real Estate Broker license to North Carolina from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board.
Who is the licensing agency for Real Estate Brokers in North Carolina?
The licensing agency is NC Real Estate Commission / Education and Licensing. Review agency details at https://www.ncrec.gov/Resources/LicenseLaw.