If you are interested in pursuing a career in real estate in North Carolina, you may be wondering how to become a licensed real estate agent. Becoming a real estate agent in NC is an exciting opportunity that can lead to a rewarding and lucrative career. In this article, we will discuss how to become a real estate agent in NC with NC REALTORS®.
NC REALTORS® is a professional trade association dedicated to promoting and protecting the interests of real estate professionals in North Carolina. They offer a variety of educational and support resources to help individuals navigate the process of becoming a licensed real estate agent in the state.
How to Become a Real Estate Agent in NC with NC REALTORS®

1. Understand the Requirements
The first step to becoming a real estate agent in NC is to familiarize yourself with the requirements set by the North Carolina Real Estate Commission (NCREC). The NCREC is responsible for regulating the real estate industry in the state and ensures that real estate agents meet certain qualifications and abide by ethical standards.
To become a real estate agent in NC, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Complete a pre-licensing course approved by the NCREC
- Pass the North Carolina real estate license examination
- Submit an application and fee to the NCREC
Additionally, it is important to note that individuals with a criminal conviction may not be eligible for a real estate license in NC. The NCREC reviews each application on a case-by-case basis.
2. Complete a Pre-Licensing Course
Before you can take the North Carolina real estate license examination, you must complete a pre-licensing course approved by the NCREC. These courses are designed to provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in the real estate industry.
NC REALTORS® offers pre-licensing courses that cover a wide range of topics, including real estate law, contracts, finance, and ethics. These courses can be taken in-person or online, allowing you to choose the option that best fits your schedule and learning preferences.
Upon completion of the pre-licensing course, you will receive a completion certificate which is required to sit for the license examination.
3. Pass the North Carolina Real Estate License Examination
Once you have completed the pre-licensing course, you must pass the North Carolina real estate license examination administered by PSI Exams. The exam consists of both national and state-specific questions and tests your knowledge of real estate principles and practices.
NC REALTORS® offers exam prep courses to help you prepare for the license examination. These courses cover key concepts and provide practice exams to familiarize you with the format and content of the exam.
After passing the license examination, you will receive a score report which is necessary to submit your application for a real estate license.
4. Submit an Application to the NCREC
Once you have passed the license examination, you can submit an application for a real estate license to the NCREC. The application includes personal information, education history, and any criminal background information that may be relevant to the application.
It is important to note that the NCREC may conduct a thorough background check to determine an applicant’s eligibility for a real estate license. It is essential to provide accurate and complete information on the application to avoid delays or potential issues with the application process.
5. Join NC REALTORS®
While joining NC REALTORS® is not a requirement to become a licensed real estate agent in NC, it can provide numerous benefits and resources to further your career in the real estate industry. NC REALTORS® offers professional development opportunities, networking events, and access to exclusive resources and tools.
Joining NC REALTORS® also allows you to be part of a community of real estate professionals who are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and ethical conduct.
6. Continuing Education and License Renewal
Once you have obtained your real estate license, it is important to stay informed and up-to-date with the latest industry trends and regulations. The NCREC requires licensed real estate agents to complete continuing education courses to renew their licenses.
NC REALTORS® offers a variety of continuing education courses that cover a range of topics, including legal updates, ethics, and best practices. These courses provide valuable knowledge and help you maintain your professional license.
It is essential to renew your real estate license by the designated renewal date to avoid any disruptions in your practice. The NCREC provides detailed information on the license renewal process and requirements.

Becoming a real estate agent in NC is an achievable goal with the guidance and resources provided by NC REALTORS®. By understanding the requirements, completing a pre-licensing course, passing the license examination, submitting an application to the NCREC, and joining NC REALTORS®, you can lay the foundation for a successful career in the real estate industry.
Remember to stay informed and pursue continuing education to stay current in the ever-changing real estate landscape. NC REALTORS® is a valuable resource that can support you throughout your career journey as a real estate agent in North Carolina.
Whether you’re interested in residential, commercial, or rental properties, becoming a real estate agent in NC opens up a world of opportunities to help clients navigate the buying, selling, and renting process. Take the first step towards your real estate career by exploring the resources and programs offered by NC REALTORS® today!
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A tech-savvy realtor, David merges innovation with real estate wisdom in his blog. With a focus on emerging trends and cutting-edge tools, he empowers his readers to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of property transactions.