How to Get a New Hampshire Real Estate License: Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to start a career in real estate? If you're wondering how to get your New Hampshire real estate license, you've come to the right place. Becoming a real estate agent in New Hampshire offers flexibility, great earning potential, and the chance to help people find their perfect homes.

In this quick guide, we’ll cover the key steps—from meeting state requirements and completing your pre-licensing course to passing the exam and applying for your license. Let’s get started!

How to Get Your Real Estate License in New Hampshire

Below is an overview of the steps that need to be taken in order to obtain a New Hampshire real estate license. 

We will discuss each step in detail below.

1. Meet the Basic Requirements
2. Complete a 40-Hour Pre-Licensing Course
3. Apply for the New Hampshire Real Estate Exam
4. Pass the New Hampshire Real Estate Exam
5. Submit Your License Application
6. Complete a Criminal Background Check
7. Find a Sponsoring Broker
8. Receive Your New Hampshire Real Estate License

By following these steps, you will be well on your way towards the launch of a successful real estate career in the Granite State.

1. Meet the Basic Requirements

Before you begin your journey to becoming a licensed real estate agent in New Hampshire, you’ll need to meet a few basic eligibility requirements:

• at least 18 years old 
• have a high school diploma or GED. 
• Clear background

In addition, the New Hampshire Real Estate Commission requires that all applicants demonstrate honesty, integrity, and a reputation for fair dealing. This means you should be prepared to meet the state’s character standards as part of the licensing process.

2. Complete a 40-Hour Pre-Licensing Course

To qualify for the exam, you must first complete 40 hours of pre-licensing education through a school approved by the New Hampshire Real Estate Commission. This required education lays the foundation for your career and covers essential topics such as:

• Real Estate Principles and Practices
• Property Rights and Ownership
• Closing and Title Transfer
• New Hampshire State Laws and Regulations
• Ethics and Professional Standards
• Financing, Appraisals, and Closings
• Real Estate Math and Calculations

The majority of providers require you to pass a final course exam to show your understanding of the material. You will receive a certificate of completion once you pass, which you will need when you apply to sit for the New Hampshire real estate licensing examination.

Make sure to choose a reputable and state-approved real estate school so your training will count towards your license.

3. Apply for the New Hampshire Real Estate Exam

You’ve finished your 40-hour pre-licensing course—congrats! Now it’s time for the next big step: applying to take the New Hampshire Real Estate Exam. Here’s how to get it done:

1. Grab the Registration Form—Head to the New Hampshire Real Estate Commission’s website and download the Examination Registration Form. This is your official ticket to the exam process!
2. Submit Your Documents to PSI—Once you've filled out the form, email it to PSI, along with your course completion certificate. PSI is the state’s official testing administrator.
3. Pay the Exam Fee—Include your payment with the form—currently, the exam fee is $67 for the salesperson license. Double-check this on the PSI website in case fees have changed.
4. Schedule Your Exam—After PSI processes your paperwork, they’ll send you instructions on how to book your exam. You can choose from selected testing centers in whichever city works best for you.
5. Bring Your ID- On the day of your exam, you are required to present a valid, government-issued photo ID—such as a driver’s license or passport—to verify your identity. Without proper identification, you will not be permitted to take the exam, and your appointment may be forfeited. 

Pro Tip: Be sure to double-check the NHREC and PSI websites for the most up-to-date info on fees, required documents, and test dates.

Once you’ve completed these steps, you’ll be well on your way to earning your New Hampshire real estate license and launching your new career with confidence.

4. Pass the New Hampshire Real Estate Exam

Once your exam application is approved, it’s go time—you’ll be eligible to schedule and take the New Hampshire Real Estate Exam.

The exam is split into two parts:

• National Portion: 80 questions
• State-Specific Portion: 40 questions
  That’s 120 questions total, and you’ll have up to four hours to complete the full exam—typically 2.5 hours for the national section and 1.5 hours for the state section.

To pass, you’ll need to score at least 70% on each portion—that means getting at least 56 questions right on the national side and 28 on the state.

Here's where a quality exam prep package can really help. You'll have a far higher chance of passing using resources like focused practice exams, simple study manuals, and review materials that are in line with the particular subject of New Hampshire. 

5. Submit Your License Application

After successfully passing both portions of the exam, your next step is to apply for your New Hampshire real estate license. Here’s what you need to know:

• How to Apply: Start by filling out the official license application, which you can find on the New Hampshire Office of Professional Licensure & Certification (OPLC) website.
• Where to Apply: You can either submit your application online or mail it in, depending on what’s easiest and what the current process allows.
• What’s Needed:
  
  • Proof of passing the real estate exam
  • Your 40-hour pre-licensing course completion certificate
  • Application fee (check the NHREC site for the exact amount)
  • Any additional required documents or disclosures

Make sure to double-check all forms and documentation for accuracy before submission to avoid delays.

6. Complete a Criminal Background Check

Before you can officially become a licensed real estate agent in New Hampshire, you’ll need to complete a criminal background check. It’s a standard part of the process that helps ensure all licensed agents meet the state’s ethical and professional standards.

If you’ve had any past legal issues, don’t stress—but do be upfront. It’s always better to disclose those details early on. The New Hampshire Real Estate Commission will review your background and determine whether you meet the licensing requirements.

You’ll find clear instructions for starting your background check on the OPLC website, so be sure to check that out as you prepare to submit your application.

7. Find a Sponsoring Broker

In New Hampshire, you’ll need to hang your license with a licensed real estate broker in order to officially start your career. But don’t rush this decision. The brokerage you choose can have a huge impact on your growth, confidence, and success as a new agent.

Take the time to research your options and look beyond the basics. Ask yourself:

• What kind of commission split do they offer?
• Do they provide training or mentorship programs to support new agents?
• What’s the office culture like—collaborative, competitive, supportive?
• How’s their reputation, and will you have access to the tools and broker support you’ll need?

Once you’ve narrowed down your list, set up interviews or coffee chats with a few potential brokers. You’re not just looking for a place to work—you’re looking for the right environment to learn, grow, and thrive in your real estate career.

8. Receive Your New Hampshire Real Estate License

Once your application is approved, your background check clears, and you’ve selected a sponsoring broker, the New Hampshire Real Estate Commission will issue your official real estate license.

🎉 Congratulations—you’re now a licensed real estate agent! 🎉

This is more than just a piece of paper. It’s your ticket to launching a new career, building relationships, and helping people navigate some of the biggest decisions of their lives. Whether you're ready to hit the ground running or still easing into the business, you're now part of an exciting, fast-paced industry with endless opportunity.

From here, your journey really begins—showings, open houses, client meetings, negotiations, and personal growth. So take a moment to be proud. Then get ready to make your mark.

FAQs About Getting a Real Estate License in New Hampshire

Below, we answer some of the most commonly asked questions about becoming a licensed real estate agent in the Granite State.

How Much Do New Hampshire Real Estate Agents Make?

Because real estate agents usually earn through commissions, your income will largely reflect the number and size of the deals you close. Those who commit to continuous learning, consistent lead generation, and strong client connections are often the ones who see the highest earnings.

Real estate agents in New Hampshire often enjoy above-average earning potential, with many professionals bringing in anywhere from $30,000 to $145,000 annually. Those who truly excel—by mastering networking, marketing, and understanding the local market—can earn well into the six figures.

How Much Does a New Hampshire Real Estate License Cost?

Getting your real estate license in New Hampshire comes with a few costs, but it's an investment in your future career. Here’s a breakdown of the main expenses you can expect:

• Pre-Licensing Education: $300–$600 (this varies depending on your provider)
• Examination Fees: Around $67
• Application Fees: Usually about $90
• Background Check Fees: Approximately $25

Altogether, you might spend anywhere from $600 to $1,000 or more to cover all the necessary steps. Keep in mind, fees can change, so it’s a good idea to check with the New Hampshire Real Estate Commission and your chosen education provider for the most up-to-date info.

Is Becoming a Real Estate Agent in New Hampshire Worth It?

If you love working with people, and thrive in a commission-based environment, becoming a real estate agent can be a highly rewarding career. You'll enjoy the freedom of setting your own schedule, developing valuable entrepreneurial skills, and helping clients navigate major life decisions.

To succeed, it’s important to enter the profession with a clear strategy, realistic expectations, and a strong network in place. With the right mindset and preparation, you can build a successful and fulfilling career in real estate.

What Should I Know Before Becoming a Real Estate Agent?

Before you dive into your real estate journey, there are a few key things to keep in mind:

• Real estate is a business. You'll be in charge of finding new clients, marketing your services, and managing your finances. It's up to you to stay organized and proactive!
• Networking is everything. Building strong relationships with clients, other agents, and industry professionals will open doors and boost your success.
• Ongoing learning is a must. The real estate world is always evolving—market conditions, laws, and trends change regularly. Staying informed ensures you stay ahead of the competition.
• Be ready for ups and downs. Your income may vary depending on the market and the season. Planning ahead and budgeting wisely will help you stay financially secure during slower months.

With the right mindset and preparation, you'll be well on your way to building a successful and fulfilling career in real estate.

Can I Get a New Hampshire Real Estate License if I’m Already an Agent in Another State?

As of April 2025, New Hampshire offers partial reciprocity for real estate licenses. This means that if you're licensed in another state, you may be able to obtain a New Hampshire license without completing all the standard requirements, provided your home state's licensing standards are substantially similar to New Hampshire's.​

Key Points:

• Partial Reciprocity: New Hampshire recognizes licenses from other states if those states' requirements align closely with New Hampshire's standards.​
• States with Reciprocity Agreements: While New Hampshire has agreements with several states, including Maine, Massachusetts, Vermont, and Georgia, it's important to verify the current list, as reciprocity agreements can change.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, including detailed instructions and application forms, please visit the New Hampshire Office of Professional Licensure & Certification (OPLC) website.

How Often Do I Renew My New Hampshire Real Estate License?

In New Hampshire, real estate licenses need to be renewed every two years, keeping you on top of industry changes and enhancing your skills. As part of the renewal process, you'll need to complete 15 hours of continuing education. 

This includes a mandatory 3-hour New Hampshire Core Course, plus 12 hours of elective coursework, allowing you to choose areas that best suit your career goals. Staying up-to-date not only ensures you maintain your license but also positions you as a knowledgeable, reliable professional in the real estate market.

What Should I Do After Getting My New Hampshire Real Estate License?

Once you’ve secured your real estate license, the real work begins. To hit the ground running, here are a few essential steps:

• Join a Brokerage: Partner with a reputable firm that offers solid training, mentorship, and the support you need to grow.
• Build Your Brand: Craft a compelling marketing strategy, set up your social media profiles, and start networking to draw in potential clients.
• Keep Learning: The real estate world is constantly changing. Stay ahead by keeping up with the latest trends, technology, and market shifts.
• Set Realistic Goals: Establish clear, achievable goals for your first year—whether it’s closing a certain number of deals, hitting a specific income target, or growing your client base.

By focusing on these key steps, you'll be laying a strong foundation for long-term success in the industry.

Final Thoughts on Getting a Real Estate License in New Hampshire

Earning your real estate license in New Hampshire is an exciting milestone that opens the door to a rewarding and profitable career. From meeting the essential requirements and completing your pre-licensing course to selecting the right brokerage and continuously refining your skills, your success will be driven by the effort you invest every day.

If you're ready to take the next step in your real estate journey, enroll in our New Hampshire Real Estate Licensing Program. We’ll walk you through each stage, providing the knowledge, tools, and support you need to excel in this dynamic field.

Best of luck as you embark on your path to becoming a licensed real estate professional in the Granite State!