Getting your real estate license in Massachusetts may seem intimidating, but the process is not really that daunting when you understand it. Consider the five things you must do before you can start your career in real estate.

1. Complete 40 Hours of Education

If you want to know how to get a real estate license Boston or any city in Massachusetts, you must first complete 40 hours of pre-licensing education. Most courses available are online and are self-paced.

2. Pass an Exam

The Massachusetts Real Estate Board requires students to pass a 100-question final course exam with a minimum score of 75%. This test is not your final licensing exam.

3. Get Candidate References

The Massachusetts Board of Registration of Real Estate Brokers and Salesperson requires you to get three references, called “candidate endorsements,” from people not related to you. While you are going through the real estate course, you will work closely with other classmates. These individuals are not allowed to provide endorsements either. It’s best to ask for references from past employers and college professors.

4. Pass the Real Estate Salesperson Examination

The Professional Service Industries will administer the salesperson licensing exam. There are national and state portions, and you are given a time limit to answer the questions.

5. Work With a Sponsoring Broker

All newly licensed real estate agents must work with a sponsoring real estate broker. You will not be employed by the broker. Instead, you will be required to pay the brokerage firm commissions or fees. These costs are well worth it because a broker will oversee your activities and guide you through the process of buying and selling homes. In other words, real estate brokers are great lifelines for new real estate agents who still have much to learn about a complicated industry.