How to Get a Real Estate License in NY
Complete Step-by-Step Guide — 2026
Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements
Be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and be a US citizen or lawfully admitted immigrant.
Step 2: Complete the 77-Hour Pre-Licensing Course
Enroll in a NY DOS-approved 77-hour pre-licensing course. Main St Success offers three formats:
Choose Your Format
Tuesdays & Thursdays
6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
In-Person or Zoom
Log on anytime
Move at your own speed
Fully flexible
⚡ Accelerated
Monday – Friday
2 Weeks • 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Get licensed in 14 days
All formats are NY DOS-approved and fulfill the full requirement. Enroll by calling (631) 212-8328 — no drop-in dates, students enroll directly.
Step 3: Apply for the NY Licensing Exam
After completing the course, use your completion certificate to register through eAccessNY (the NY DOS online portal).
Step 4: Pass the NY Real Estate Exam
75 multiple-choice questions. Score 70% or higher to pass. Our students pass at 98% on the first attempt. Exam fee: ~$15.
Step 5: Find a Sponsoring Broker
You cannot practice without affiliating with a NY-licensed broker. The broker sponsors and supervises your license.
Step 6: Submit Your Application to NY DOS
Apply through eAccessNY with your exam results, course certificate, and broker sponsorship. Application fee: ~$99.
Total Cost & Time
- Pre-licensing course: ~$199–$700
- Exam fee: ~$15 | Application: ~$99
- Total: ~$460–$765
- Time: 2–10 weeks depending on format (accelerated = 2 weeks exactly)