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If you’re considering a career in real estate in Ontario, one of the first questions you might have is, “How long does it take to get my real estate license?” The answer varies depending on the pace at which you complete the required courses, but on average, it takes 9 to 12 months to become a licensed real estate salesperson in Ontario. Let’s break down the steps involved and the factors that influence how long the process takes.
Complete the Pre-Registration Coursework
The first step to getting your real estate license is completing the mandatory pre-registration courses through Humber College Real Estate Education Program, which is the approved program in Ontario.
There are 5 courses, 2 simulation sessions, and 1 exam you must complete during this phase. These are:
- Course 1: Real Estate Essentials
- Course 2: Residential Real Estate Transactions
- Course 3: Commercial Real Estate Transactions
- Course 4: Additional residential and commercial modules
- Course 5: Real Estate Law
- Two Simulation Sessions: Practical, scenario-based training sessions
- Final Exam: A comprehensive test to assess your knowledge
Depending on your availability and study habits, this phase can take between 4 to 9 months. Since these courses are self-paced and can be done online, the length of time it takes really depends on how quickly you can complete them.
Pass the Final Exam
Once you complete the coursework, you will need to pass the final exam. While some people may pass the exam on the first attempt, others may need more time to study and retake it if necessary. Scheduling the exam and getting results usually takes a few weeks.
Register with the Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO)
After passing the final exam, you must register with the Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO) within 12 months to legally work as a real estate salesperson. This step involves submitting an application, paying registration fees, and getting insurance. The registration process typically takes a couple of weeks once you submit all required documents.
Complete the Post-Registration Phase
Once registered, you’ll enter the post-registration phase, which must be completed within the first two years of your registration. This includes more courses to deepen your knowledge, but you can work as a real estate agent during this period.
Factors That May Influence the Timeline:
- Full-time vs. part-time study: If you’re studying full-time, you might complete the courses more quickly than someone who is balancing a job and studying part-time.
- Course availability and scheduling: Simulation sessions and exam slots may not always be immediately available, which could delay your progress.
- Preparation and performance: How well you prepare for exams and courses can also influence the time it takes to pass.
Conclusion
In total, the process of becoming a licensed real estate agent in Ontario typically takes between 9 to 12 months from the start of your coursework to registration with RECO. However, this timeline can vary depending on how quickly you complete the necessary steps. For those looking to get started as quickly as possible, dedicating more time to studying and staying organized can help you move through the process faster. Once registered, you will need to complete the post-registration phase, but you can begin working in the real estate industry right after getting your license.
If you’re considering this path, it’s important to plan out your study schedule and make sure you’re prepared for each stage of the process.