The time required to achieve your Alabama real estate salesperson's license will vary from person to person. Here is a potential timeline for how long it could take to earn your Alabama real estate salesperson license:
Step 1: Complete the required 60-hour AL pre-license course.
- Many students choose to take the course online so they can complete the hours at their pace.
- An online course can be faster to complete than an in-person class.
- Finishing your 60-hour course can take anywhere from 2-4 weeks, depending on how quickly you complete the course online.
Step 2: Schedule and take the State exam.
-You must wait for your exam eligibility to be submitted before scheduling the course. You’ll receive a notification via email. This could take up to 7 days from the date you officially finish your course.
- Once you’ve been notified, schedule your exam through https://schedule.psiexams.com or by calling 888-818-5824.
- Scheduling the exam can take anywhere from 1-3 weeks, depending on availability at the testing centers.
Step 3: Apply for a Temporary License
-You have up to 90 days to apply for the Temporary Salesperson's License, starting with the day you pass the exam. If you have all the documents gathered, you could submit the application within a day.
Step 4: Submit Fingerprints for a Background Check
-All applicants must get their fingerprints taken and by the state’s background check processor. Find full fingerprint scanning and processing instructions at www.aps.gemalto.com.
- The process for the AREC to receive your results could take up to 30 days.
- Time your application submission with your fingerprint date.
Step 5: Take the 30-hour Post-Licensing Course
-You will need to take a 30-hour Post-Licensing Course before you can apply for a permanent license.
-Many opt to take the post-licensing course online in order to work at their pace on their schedule. It could be done in as little as a week.
Step 6: Apply for your permanent license
- You can submit the application as soon as you have passed the post-licensing course. The AREC does not offer a process timeline, but we estimate it will be 2-4 weeks.
-You will need to be hired by an Alabama licensed real estate broker to receive your permanent license.
Total Time: 8-12 weeks
As you see, it’s possible to have an Alabama real estate license within eight weeks. How quickly you earn your license will depend on when you complete your course, pass the exam, apply for the license, clear the background check, and get hired by a broker.