If you’re considering a career in real estate, you need to be aware of the provincial guidelines in your area. Use our guide below to see what the process is across Canada:
To become a licenced REALTOR in BC, you’ll need to first register for BCFSA’s Applied Practice Course, then submit your licensing application. There will also be a criminal record check, language proficiency requirements and brokerage certification.
To get licenced in Alberta, you’ll need to meet their eligibility requirements, and then enroll and successfully complete your pre-licensing education with a recognized provider. A broker in your area might be able to recommend a provider that has worked best for themselves or their agents.
For registration in Saskatchewan, you must complete the education required by the Saskatchewan Real Estate Commission, provided by the UBC Sauder School of Business. Please note that the SRA does not provide this education themselves. Once your education is complete, you can register with the SRA by applying online. If your chosen brokerage is a member of the SRA, you will also need to join by completing a membership application form along with your broker.
In Manitoba, prospective agents must complete the required courses through the Manitoba Real Estate Association (MREA), which includes modules on fundamentals, practice courses, and exams. Once you’ve successfully completed your education, you’ll apply for licensing through the Manitoba Securities Commission. Be prepared to complete background checks and meet English language proficiency standards.
To become a real estate agent in Ontario, you must complete the Real Estate Salesperson Program delivered by Humber College on behalf of the Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO). The process includes pre-registration courses, exams, and a mandatory simulation session. Once complete, you can register with RECO and begin trading in real estate under a registered brokerage.
In Quebec, aspiring brokers must first complete the required training program offered by an institution recognized by the Organisme d’autoréglementation du courtage immobilier du Québec (OACIQ). This includes academic coursework and passing the OACIQ certification exam. Fluency in French is essential, and applicants must meet additional requirements, including a background check.
Those looking to enter the real estate profession in New Brunswick must take the pre-licensing course through the New Brunswick Real Estate Association (NBREA). After passing the required exam, you must affiliate with a licensed brokerage and apply for your licence through the Financial and Consumer Services Commission (FCNB).
Nova Scotia requires you to complete the Salesperson Licensing Course offered by the Nova Scotia Association of REALTORS® (NSAR). Once you pass the exam, you can apply for your licence through the Nova Scotia Real Estate Commission. You must also be affiliated with a brokerage at the time of your application.
To get started in real estate in PEI, you’ll first need to take the required licensing course offered by the PEI Real Estate Association. After successfully passing the course and exam, you can apply for a licence through the provincial Office of the Superintendent of Real Estate. You must be employed by or contracted with a licensed brokerage.
In Newfoundland and Labrador, the licensing process is administered by Service NL. You’ll need to complete a recognized pre-licensing education course and pass an examination. Licensing also requires being affiliated with a licensed brokerage and undergoing a criminal record check.
Aspiring real estate professionals in Yukon must meet licensing requirements through the Yukon Government's Consumer Services branch. This includes completing approved education and training, and passing any required exams. You must also be employed by a licensed brokerage.
To become licensed in the Northwest Territories, you must submit your application through the Department of Justice – Consumer Affairs division. Pre-licensing education is required, and you must be associated with a brokerage licensed to operate in the territory. Criminal record checks and background screening are also required.
In Nunavut, real estate licensing falls under the jurisdiction of the Department of Justice. As licensing regulations and requirements may vary or evolve, prospective agents are encouraged to contact the department directly for the most up-to-date information on becoming a licensed real estate agent in the territory.