Massachusetts Real Estate License Requirements (2025)

The Massachusetts Board of Registration of Real Estate Brokers and Salespersons, operating under the Division of Occupational Licensure (DOL), oversees real estate licensing in Massachusetts. Here are the complete requirements for a salesperson license.

Eligibility Requirements

To apply for a Massachusetts salesperson license, you must: - Be at least 18 years old - Have a high school diploma or equivalent - Be of good moral character

Step 1: Pre-License Education — 40 Hours

Massachusetts requires 40 hours of pre-license education from a Board-approved school. This is one of the lowest requirements in the country. Topics include: - Real estate principles - Massachusetts license law (Chapter 112) - Agency law - Contracts - Massachusetts Lead Law - Fair housing

Step 2: Pass the Massachusetts Real Estate Exam

Schedule through PSI. The exam format: - 120 questions (80 national + 40 state) - 3 hours - 70% passing score (84 correct) - PSI testing centers in Massachusetts

Both sections must be passed independently.

Step 3: Apply for the License

After passing the exam: - Complete the Board of Registration application - Pay the application fee - Submit background disclosure - Provide a licensed Massachusetts broker's signature (you cannot hold an active salesperson license without a sponsoring broker)

Step 4: Activate the License

Your license is inactive until your sponsoring broker registers your affiliation with the Board. You cannot practice as a real estate salesperson until activation is confirmed.

License Renewal

Massachusetts salesperson licenses renew every 2 years.

Continuing education: 12 hours per 2-year cycle. Massachusetts has one of the lower CE requirements. CE must be completed through Board-approved providers.

Broker License Requirements

To upgrade to broker in Massachusetts: - Hold an active Massachusetts salesperson license (no specified minimum years, but practical experience is expected) - Complete additional broker pre-license education (40 hours for salespeople upgrading to broker) - Pass the Massachusetts broker exam

Key Statute Reference

Massachusetts real estate license law is found in General Laws Chapter 112, Sections 87PP–87DDD. The exam expects you to know the chapter citation and that the licensing authority is the Board of Registration — not a commission.

Massachusetts Board Composition

The Board has 7 members: 5 licensed real estate brokers and 2 consumer representatives. Board members are appointed by the Governor.

Practice Massachusetts Licensing Questions

[CARealestate.com/states/massachusetts](https://carealestate.com/states/massachusetts) has Board of Registration rules and licensing practice questions. 5 free questions — no signup needed.

Massachusetts Real Estate License Requirements (2025)