What States Have Real Estate License Reciprocity With Florida?

If you're a licensed real estate agent in another state and want to expand your business or relocate to Florida, the process could be easier than you think. This guide explains everything you need to know about transferring your license, including which states have reciprocity, what steps to take, how long it takes, and what it will cost.

Which States Have Reciprocity with Florida?

Florida currently has mutual recognition agreements with 10 states:

• Alabama

• Arkansas

• Connecticut

• Georgia

• Illinois

• Kentucky

• Mississippi

• Nebraska

• Rhode Island

• West Virginia

These agreements allow you to bypass Florida’s full real estate licensing requirements. Instead, you’ll only need to pass a 40-question exam on Florida-specific real estate laws and complete a few other steps.

To qualify, your license must be active, unexpired, and in good standing—meaning you have no disciplinary actions and have met all continuing education requirements in your home state.

What Is Real Estate Reciprocity?

Real estate reciprocity (also known as mutual recognition in Florida) is an agreement that allows agents in certain states to apply for a license in Florida without having to repeat their full education and examination requirements. It streamlines the licensing process and opens opportunities to work across state lines—perfect for agents near border states or working with seasonal clients.

License Transfer Requirements, Fingerprinting, and Timeline

The license transfer process differs based on whether your state is on Florida’s mutual recognition list.

For Applicants from Reciprocal States

If your license is from one of Florida’s reciprocal states, follow these steps:

• Submit your application through the Florida DBPR Online Services portal

• Provide a certified license history from your home state

• Pass the 40-question Florida law exam

• Complete fingerprinting through a Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) approved Livescan vendor. Use ORI number FL920010Z. Visit the DBPR Fingerprinting page for complete instructions.

For Applicants from Non-Reciprocal States

If your state doesn’t have a reciprocity agreement with Florida, you’ll need to follow the full licensing process:

• Enroll in a 63-hour Florida-approved pre-licensing course

• Pass the 100-question licensing exam (national + state sections)

• Complete fingerprinting using the correct ORI code (FL920010Z)

• Submit your application through DBPR Online Services

Timeline

Processing typically takes 2–4 weeks after submitting all required materials, including your background check.

Cost Breakdown

• License application: $83.75

• Fingerprinting: $50–$80 (varies by vendor)

• Florida law exam: $36.75

• Pre-licensing course (if required): varies by provider

Good Standing Requirements

To transfer your license to Florida, it must be:

• Active and unexpired

• Free of disciplinary action

• Supported by documentation showing completed continuing education

Temporary or Provisional Licenses

Florida does not issue temporary or provisional licenses for reciprocal applicants. You must complete all steps, including fingerprinting and passing the law exam, before you're allowed to practice.

Broker vs. Salesperson Reciprocity

Florida extends reciprocity to both sales associates and brokers. However, brokers must demonstrate proof of experience, typically 24 months of active licensure within the last 5 years, and may be required to provide additional documentation. You can review the process for becoming a broker in Florida.

Continuing Education & License Renewal

Florida requires:

• 45 hours of post-licensing education for sales associates

• 60 hours of post-licensing for brokers

• 14 hours of continuing education every 2 years thereafter

If you hold licenses in multiple states, make sure you stay compliant with CE requirements for each jurisdiction.

Remote Work, E&O Insurance, and MLS Access

Practicing real estate across state lines requires:

• Research into each MLS’s access rules and local board membership

• Understanding Florida’s digital signature and remote notary laws

• E&O insurance coverage for multiple states, if required

What If Your Home License Expires?

If your home state license expires before your Florida application is processed, your eligibility for reciprocity may be revoked. You’ll likely need to go through the full licensing process or renew your original license before reapplying.

Here’s a helpful guide on renewing an expired real estate license.

Career Opportunities & Referral Business

Many agents use Florida reciprocity to tap into:

• Cross-border markets like Georgia or Alabama

• Seasonal “snowbird” transactions from northern states

• Referral networks to earn income without full licensure in every state

• Property management opportunities that span multiple locations

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Forgetting to include your certified license history

• Using the wrong ORI number when submitting fingerprints

• Assuming you can begin practicing before DBPR approval

• Not completing post-licensing education on time

Ready to Grow Your Business in the Sunshine State?

Florida makes it straightforward for out-of-state agents to get licensed, especially if you’re coming from a reciprocal state. Whether you’re looking to relocate, expand your business, or serve clients across state lines, understanding the process and meeting the requirements can open up new opportunities in one of the country’s most active real estate markets.