New Hampshire Frequently Ask Questions Real Estate License
On this page you will find a full list of frequently asked questions about how to get your New Hampshire real estate license, the New Hampshire real estate salesperson course, how to prepare for the NH state exam, how to renew your NH real estate license, and general real estate profession questions.
About the 40-Hour New Hampshire Real Estate Salesperson Pre-License Course
You must take a 40-hour pre-licensing course from a pre-approved course provider. This course will teach you about real estate topics relevant to working in real estate in New Hampshire.
Read MoreYou will take a total of 40 hours of pre-licensing education before you take the state licensing exam.
Read MoreYou can take the New Hampshire salesperson pre-license course as a classroom course or as a remote, online class. No matter how you take the course, it must be with a pre-approved provider. Online courses are a popular option because they are more flexible and tend to be more affordable than live learning.
Read MoreYes, you can take the New Hampshire salesperson pre-licensing class as an online course as long as you take it with a pre-approved school.
Read MoreNew Hampshire does not have any stipulations about holding a high school diploma before taking the salesperson pre-license course. Just keep in mind you must be at least 18 years old to apply for a license and your course completion certificate is only valid for six months.
Read MoreNew Hampshire does not exempt practicing attorneys or law school graduates from taking the pre-licensing course.
Read MoreFor the salesperson pre-license education, any college credits do not count. If you decide to pursue a broker’s license, there is a pathway to have college courses count for pre-licensing education.
Read MoreYes, your pre-license course is required to have a final exam of at least 25 questions. Your course administrator will provide you with more information about the final exam.
Read MoreYou will receive your New Hampshire pre-license education course completion certificate after you finish all the units in the 40 hours of required work. You must pass any quizzes along the way and successfully pass the course final exam.
Read MoreThe exact number of questions on your pre-license course exams will vary based on the current section of the course you are taking. Your course administrator will let you know how many questions are on the different exams and the comprehensive final.
Read MoreIf you are a RealEstateU student, your course completion certificate will be available to you as soon as you finish and pass the final exam. All you need to do is log into your account, and you will be able to find the certificate for download in the course information.
Read MoreNew Hampshire's Office of Professional Licensure and Certification Publishes a list of pre-approved schools.
Read MoreNew Hampshire Real Estate Commission requires you to submit proof of completing a pre-licensing course when you turn in your exam registration form. You won't be approved to take the state licensing exam without turning in proof of education.
Read MoreYour course completion certificate for the New Hampshire salesperson pre-license course is valid for six months. You need to finish the remaining steps within this timeframe, or you may need to take the pre-license course again.
Read MoreApplying for a New Hampshire Real Estate License
All salesperson applicants must include the original passing licensing exam score report. In addition, your answers to questions 1-6 in part four of the application may require you to submit additional documentation. Follow the instructions if this applies to you.
Read MoreThe New Hampshire Real Estate Commission gives you six months from passing the state licensing exam to submit your licensing application. Your application must be submitted while your criminal record report is valid. Time the submission of these so you do not delay your application approval.
Read MoreNew Hampshire does require you to work under the supervision of a state licensed real estate broker. You need to provide your supervising broker's information as part of the real estate application.
Read MoreIf you have an inactive license, you cannot engage in any real estate brokerage activities. An active license means you can work as a real estate agent, perform real estate brokerage work such as consultations, marketing, and negotiations, and be compensated for work as a real estate professional.
Read MoreTo change from an active to inactive real estate license, all you need to do is fill out a “De-activation of an Active License” form. Send it to the NHREC with your original wall license and pocket card.
Read MoreYou will automatically receive an active New Hampshire real estate salesperson license once you complete all of the licensing steps. So, you will need to take the pre-license course, pass the state exam, pass the criminal record check, and be hired by a New Hampshire broker.
Read MoreWhen you’re ready to re-activate your license, you need the “Activation of an Inactive License” form. It must be signed by your principal broker, include a $20 amendment fee, and may need proof of your continuing education.
Read MoreThe key difference is a principal broker license enables you to operate as an independent business and to hire employees who will work under your supervision in the business of real estate. A salesperson must work under the supervision of a principal broker.
Read MoreYou can visit the New Hampshire online licensing license lookup portal to check on your application status.
Read MoreBefore you can apply for a New Hampshire salesperson license, you must be at least 18 years of age. You will need to take 40 hours of pre-licensing education, pass the state licensing exam, be hired by a licensed New Hampshire broker, and initiate your criminal record check.
Read MoreThe New Hampshire Real Estate Commission uses a paper application process. You will need to download and print out the application.
Read MoreNo, the New Hampshire Real Estate Commission does not have an online application portal for the initial salesperson license at this time. You will need to print the application documents.
Read MoreThe New Hampshire real estate salesperson license application fee is $90 made payable by check to the Treasurer, State of New Hampshire.
Read MoreDisclosing Prior Criminal Activity in New Hampshire
New Hampshire makes licensing decisions on a case-by-case basis, but generally, any offenses related to dishonesty will disqualify you from receiving a license. If you are concerned your conviction disqualifies you, you can petition for a determination of eligibility with the NHREC.
Read MoreThere are questions on the license application that also ask about your criminal history. If you have any misdemeanor or felony conviction, in addition to positive answers on the application, you must file a criminal record report from that jurisdiction and an Arrest and Conviction Form with the NHREC.
Read MoreYou officially disclose any prior criminal activity when you file your license application. It has questions regarding prior history. You’ll also need to fill out an Arrest and Conviction Form with more details.
Read MoreGetting Fingerprinted in New Hampshire
No, you do not need to be fingerprinted as part of the New Hampshire salesperson licensing process. You do need to submit a criminal record release for a background check.
Read MoreSubmit a notarized criminal record release and the required fee of $25 to the Department of Safety, Division of State Police. Fill out the release form, which is already pre-filled in Section 2 by the New Hampshire Real Estate Commission.
Read MoreThere is no provided timeline for how long it takes the Department of Safety, Division of State Police to run your criminal record check. However, the criminal record report is only valid for six months. You'll need to apply for your license application within this timeframe or you'll have to request a new report.
Read MoreHow to Get a New Hampshire Real Estate License
You must complete the following steps to earn your NH Salesperson’s license: 1) Complete the 40-Hour NH Pre-license Salesperson Course 2) Submit criminal record release form 3) Pass the NH salesperson state exam 4) Submit a salesperson license application with character affidavits
Read MoreIn total, earning your New Hampshire real estate salesperson license can cost as little as $519. These costs are spread over the licensing process and not paid all upfront.
Read MoreEarn your NH license in approx. 3 months 1)Complete the 40-hour pre-license course online: 1-3 weeks 2)Apply for the state licensing exam: 1-3 weeks 3)Schedule and pass the NH state exam: 1-3 weeks 4)Submit criminal records check consent 1-3 weeks 5)Be hired by an NH broker 1-3 months 6)Apply for your license 2-4 weeks
Read MoreYou will take a state licensing exam that measures your understanding of essential national and state real estate practice and topics. You’ll also take a final exam as part of your pre-licensure course. You must pass the final to earn your course completion certificate.
Read MoreNew Hampshire currently does not offer the initial salesperson application for online filing. You need to print and complete the application. Once you are licensed, you can renew online.
Read MoreNew Hampshire License Qualifications / Requirements
The New Hampshire Office of Professional Licensure and Certification requires all real estate salesperson applicants to be at least 18 years of age.
Read MoreNo high school diploma or equivalent is required to earn or hold a New Hampshire real estate license.
Read MoreYou can hold a New Hampshire real estate license if you do not live inside the state. You have to follow the same licensing procedures as a state resident. You will need a signed irrevocable consent and power of attorney statement.
Read MoreThe rules and regulations governing real estate practice in New Hampshire are found in the state statutes, Chapter REA 100, Organizational Rules.
Read MoreNew Hampshire Real Estate License Renewal
You’ll need to submit a “Real Estate Salesperson Renewal” form, either as a paper application or as an online renewal. You need to include information about your continuing education.
Read MoreThe renewal fee for a New Hampshire salesperson is $90.
Read MoreYour New Hampshire salesperson real estate license is valid for two years from the issuance date. The NHREC will notify you 30 days before expiration by email to renew your license.
Read MoreAll first-time salespersons need to complete the 12-hour post-licensing continuing education courses in each of the four approved course topics.
Read MoreAll inactive renewal applicants shall complete a minimum three-hour continuing education core course accredited by the Commission.
Read MoreAll active renewal applicants shall complete a minimum three-hour continuing education core course that has been accredited by the Commission. You must also complete an additional 12 hours of elective courses accredited by the NHREC.
Read MoreMake sure you have taken the three-hour required core course by the NHREC. Then, you will submit a paper renewal form or an online renewal.
Read MoreThe NHREC will notify you 30 days before your license expiration to go to the online renewal portal and begin the renewal process. Your notification will be by email, so make sure the Commission has your most current email address on record.
Read MoreIf you do not renew within a year, you will be considered an original applicant and will need to start the process over. If you renew within a year, you’ll need to pay a late fee and the renewal fee.
Read MoreNew Hampshire Real Estate Profession Questions
If you hold a New Hampshire real estate salesperson license, you are legally able to earn a commission, or the expectation of a commission, by representing sellers and buyers in the selling, purchasing, listing, exchange, leasing, renting, or leasing option on any real property, real estate improvement or timeshare.
Read MoreA real estate license is required to represent a buyer(s) or seller(s) in a real estate transaction and earn a commission or compensation for the rendered services. This includes listing, selling, purchasing, leasing, lease options, and renting. A license enables the licensee to advertise real estate properties.
Read MoreYou need to turn in a “Change of Managing Broker” form with a $20 processing fee. Include the original firm wall license and the pocket card of the old/new managing broker.
Read MoreNew Hampshire Reciprocity and Out-of-State Licensees
You must email nhrec@oplc.nh.gov to inquire about any reciprocity and licensure equivalency requirements. The steps vary according to the state you currently hold an active license. Depending on your state and situation, you may fill out an equivalency packet.
Read MoreYou need to follow the same requirements as a New Hampshire resident. This includes steps like taking the 40-hour pre-license course, being hired by a NH licensed broker, and passing the state exam.
Read MoreRealEstateU Questions in New Hampshire
Yes, Real Estate U is a recently approved pre-license course provider. We offer the 40-hour course for $249. Online learning is the fastest and most flexible way to meet New Hampshire’s education requirements.
Read MoreScheduling Your New Hampshire Real Estate Licensing Exam
No. The New Hampshire Real Estate Commission must approve you to take the state licensing exam. With your registration form, you are required to provide proof of completing the pre-license education.
Read MoreYour course completion certificate is only valid for six months, so you want to schedule your state licensing exam before your certificate expires. It will take the NH Real Estate Commission some time to approve you to take the exam, so submit your registration form promptly after finishing your course.
Read MoreYour first step is to submit the exam registration form with your proof of completing the pre-license education and the examination fee. When the NHREC approves your exam eligibility, the state's testing vendor PSI will notify you that you can schedule your exam. PSI recommends to set your exam appointment online.
Read MoreNew Hampshire salesperson licensing exam costs $155 paid to the Treasurer, State of New Hampshire, by check or money order.
Read MoreYou will pay the New Hampshire State Treasurer by check or money order. Make your payment out to “Treasurer, State of New Hampshire.” Payment must be received in advance of the exam.
Read MoreExpect for the New Hampshire Real Estate Commission to take five to ten business days to process your exam registration. Once you have the approval email from PSI, you can be registered and scheduled for an exam within an hour. Online scheduling is the fastest and easiest way to register for your exam.
Read MoreTesting locations are available in Concord, Manchester, Nashua, and Portsmouth. Refer to the PSI website or the candidate testing bulletin for specific addresses.
Read MoreAny cancellations or changes to your New Hampshire real estate licensing exam appointment must be made at least two calendar days before the scheduled exam date. You can reschedule online at www.psiexams.com or call PSI at 855-340-3711.
Read MoreTaking the New Hampshire Real Estate Licensing Exam
The New Hampshire Salesperson Pre-licensure Exam consists of two sections. The National section will ask 80 multiple-choice questions, and a passing score is 56. The State section will ask 40 multiple-choice questions, and a passing score is 28.
Read MoreYou will be tested on national and state real estate-related content. Topics include property ownership, land use controls, financing, market analysis, property disclosures, and contracts. State-specific questions ask about the NH Commission, licensing requirements, licensee conduct, and NH principles and practice.
Read MoreYou will be provided with an online calculator, but you can bring a silent, non-programmable calculator without alphabetic keys.
Read MoreYou will need to bring (2) forms of identification. One must be state or federal government-issued, like a driver’s license or passport. The secondary form can be another primary ID or something which contains your signature, like a credit or debit card.
Read MorePSI can accommodate testing modifications in accordance with the ADA. Anyone requesting accommodations must submit an accommodations request online and include documentation from a medical authority or specialist about their limitations.
Read MoreAll personal belongings must be stored in your vehicle or in the test center's secure storage. No eating, drinking, or smoking is permitted in the exam center. No electronic devices are allowed in the testing room. A full list of procedures is in the Candidate Information Bulletin.
Read MoreYou do not need to be hired by a New Hampshire license real estate broker before you take the state licensing exam.
Read MoreYou have six months after passing the New Hampshire licensing exam to submit your real estate salesperson license application.
Read MoreCongratulations on passing the NH real estate salesperson licensing exam. Your license application must be submitted within six months of passing the state exam. Your next step is to be hired by a licensed real estate broker, gather the application documents, and find three individuals to provide character affidavits.
Read MoreYou need to include your original passing exam score reports with your real estate license application. Without it, the real estate commission will not approve your license.
Read MoreYou can retake the New Hampshire licensing exam up to eight times within your six-month testing eligibility window. If you fail to pass within this window, you'll need to retake an accredited pre-license education course.
Read MoreYou will know how you did on your New Hampshire licensing exam as soon as you are done. Your score will appear on your testing screen. You will also leave the test center with a score report printed. If you do not pass, you will receive a diagnostic report.
Read MoreYes, you can. You need to submit a new examination fee and the original failing score report(s) before you can reschedule. You can retake up to eight times within six months.
Read MoreTo schedule your exam retake, you must submit the original score report to the New Hampshire Real Estate Commission along with the state licensing exam fee of $155. Once you have an email from PSI, you can go online or call to set the exam appointment.
Read MoreEach time you take the New Hampshire salesperson licensing exam will cost you $155.
Read MoreYes, you can take just one section. You still need to submit a new examination fee and the original passing and failing score report(s) before you can be rescheduled.
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