The youngest age to obtain a real estate license in the United States is 18 years old in nearly all states, including major markets like California, Texas, Florida, and New York. There is no state that allows licensure before age 18, as real estate agents must be legally able to enter into binding contracts, which requires adult legal status.
While you must be 18 to hold an active license, you can begin preparing earlier. Many aspiring agents use their late teens to:
- Research state-specific education requirements
- Complete high school courses in business, economics, or finance
- Shadow licensed agents (where permitted)
- Enroll in prelicensing courses in their final semester of high school (though the license cannot be activated until age 18)
Some states, such as Texas and Colorado, allow you to finish your prelicensing education before turning 18, but you cannot apply for the exam or license until your 18th birthday. The application, background check, and exam scheduling all require legal adulthood.
Although the age requirement is uniform, success in real estate also depends on maturity, communication skills, and market knowledge qualities that can be developed early through internships, customer service jobs, or real estate investing education.
Certilyst supports new agents by offering state-approved exam preparation that aligns with official content outlines, helping young professionals pass the licensing exam efficiently and start their careers with confidence. Begin your prep at Certilyst Real Estate License Prep.
For official age and eligibility rules, consult your state’s real estate commission or the Association of Real Estate License Law Officials: www.arello.org.