Frequently asked questions: Real estate brokers

How can I obtain a license in Washington if I am already licensed in another state?

To receive examination approval, you must request a license history from the Real Estate Commission of the state where you are currently licensed.

If your history indicates that you have held an active license within the previous 6 months, we will waive the National portion of the examination, and you will only be required to test on the Washington Law section of the exam. In addition, the license history will provide information that will allow a waiver of the education requirements.

After you receive your license history, please mail it with a cover letter that includes your mailing address to us at:

  • Real Estate Licensing
    Department of Licensing
    PO Box 9015
    Olympia, WA 98507

How much does it cost to renew my Broker license?

  • $210 if paid on time
  • $236.50 if paid within one year after your expiration date

Do I still need to renew my license if I am inactive and, if so, what is the fee?

Yes, the renewal fee is due, whether you are on active or inactive status. The fees are the same. Continuing education is not required if you are on an inactive status.

Will my license be canceled if the renewal fee is not paid by the expiration date?

You have one year from the expiration date of your license to pay your renewal and penalty fee or your license will be canceled. Each licensee is responsible for renewing their license on time. Please be aware of the expiration date on your license, as you are also considered unlicensed during the expiration period.

How many clock hours do I need to renew my broker license?

  • An actively licensed broker is required to complete 30 hours of approved real estate education to renew the license.
  • Licensees renewing on or after June 1, 2004 must include 3 hours of prescribed core curriculum in the 30 hours required for the renewal of an active license.

Inactive licenses are not required to complete the continuing education at the time of renewal.

How do I transfer my license?

You must submit a completed Application for Real Estate License, along with your current released license. If all items are submitted correctly, the legal date of the transfer will be either the US postmark date or the date delivered in person to our Olympia offices.

I am currently inactive. How do I activate my license?

If your renewal fees are current, you will need to submit a fully completed Application for Real Estate License.

If your license has been on an inactive status for more than 3 years, you will need to provide proof of completion of an approved 30 clock hour real estate course. This course must have been taken within one year prior to applying for an active status. You will also be required to submit 30 clock hours if you activate your license and you have been inactive for less than one year and during that time period renewed your licensee on an inactive status.

How long can I remain on inactive status?

There is no limit. However, you are still required to renew your license, regardless of the inactive status.

How do I find out if a company name is available?

To determine the availability of a company name, fax the name(s) you would like to use to (360) 586-0998 along with your name and telephone/fax number.

There is a limit of 3 names per request. After the name search is completed, we will contact you by correspondence or fax. If the name is available, you will be faxed a confirmation that the name is being reserved for 60 days. There is no charge for this service.

How old can my clock hours be before I can no longer use them for continuing education?

You can not use any unused clock hours that are older than 36 months from your current renewal date. This basically covers the year previous to your last renewal. You are limited to a maximum of 15 hours from that period. A minimum of 15 hours must be completed within 24 months of your expiration date.