How to Become a Real Estate Broker in Massachusetts

Are you interested in taking your real estate career to the next level in Massachusetts? In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to become a fully licensed real estate broker. You’ll learn about the basic requirements, the necessary education (including the final course exam and certificates), potential costs, and what it takes to grow your business as a broker. By the end, you’ll have a clear roadmap for obtaining your Massachusetts real estate broker license.

Steps to Become a Real Estate Broker in Massachusetts

To become a real estate broker in Massachusetts, you must fulfill certain state requirements and pass the broker licensing exam. Below is a quick list of the steps you’ll take:

1. Meet the basic requirements 
2. Hold a Massachusetts real estate salesperson license
3. Complete the required 40-hour MA broker pre-licensing education
4. Obtain the required $5,000 surety bond
5. Submit a broker license application
6. Pass the Massachusetts real estate broker exam
7. Pay license fees and activate your broker license

We’ll break down each step in detail below.

1. Meet the Basic Requirements

To start, you must be at least 18 years old and have a valid Social Security number. 

You should also be able to show lawful presence in the United States. These are the basic prerequisites before you can begin the process of becoming a broker.

2. Hold a Massachusetts Real Estate Salesperson License

In Massachusetts, you can only become a broker if you’ve first worked as a licensed real estate salesperson. 

The state requires you to have at least three years of active experience (a minimum of 25 hours per week) under a licensed broker. This on-the-job training ensures you have a strong foundation in real estate practice before you move on to the broker level.

3. Complete the Required 40-Hour Massachusetts Real Estate Broker Pre-Licensing Education

Before you can take the broker exam, you must enroll in and complete a 40-hour broker pre-licensing course approved by the Massachusetts Board of Registration of Real Estate Brokers and Salespersons.

Course Topics
Typical course topics include:

• Advanced Real Estate Law and Regulations
• Basic Principles of Real Estate
• Real Estate Finance and Math
• Agency and Contracts
• Ethical and Professional Standards
• Consumer Protection Laws
• Fair Housing Regulations

Most accredited programs require you to pass a course final exam at the end of the 40-hour training.

Upon successful completion, you’ll receive a course completion certificate, which is essential for your broker application.

If you’re looking for a trusted, accredited program, be sure to check out our partnered real estate broker program, where you can gain the comprehensive education you need to succeed.

4. Obtain the Required $5,000 Surety Bond

Massachusetts law requires prospective brokers to secure a $5,000 surety bond. This bond protects clients against financial loss resulting from unethical or illegal actions by the broker. You’ll need to show proof of this bond when you submit your application.

5. Submit a Broker License Application

Once you’ve completed your 40-hour course and obtained the surety bond, it’s time to submit your broker license application to the Massachusetts Board of Registration of Real Estate Brokers and Salespersons. You’ll typically provide:

• Proof of completed coursework (your course completion certificate)
• Documentation of your three years of experience as a salesperson
• Surety bond certificate

Double-check all requirements and include the necessary fees with your application.

6. Pass the Massachusetts Real Estate Broker Exam

You might wonder why passing the exam is step 6 and not earlier. In Massachusetts, you must first apply with the Board (step 5) and receive authorization before you can schedule and sit for the broker exam. This ensures that only qualified candidates—those who have completed the pre-licensing education, experience requirements, and surety bond—are permitted to test.

The broker exam is administered by PSI. It consists of two portions: National (General) and Massachusetts State-Specific.

• Number of Questions:
  
  • National portion: 80 questions
  • State portion: 40 questions
  • Total: 120 questions
• Time Duration:
  
  • 2.5 hours for the national section
  • 1.5 hours for the state section
  • 4 hours in total

You must score 70% or higher on each portion to pass:

• National portion: At least 56 correct answers out of 80
• State portion: At least 28 correct answers out of 40

Once you pass both portions, you’ll receive instructions on how to finalize your license.

7. Pay License Fees and Activate Your Broker License

After passing the exam, you’ll pay the required licensing fees. Once payment is processed and your license is issued, you can officially work as a Massachusetts real estate broker—either independently or by opening your own brokerage.

FAQs About Becoming a Real Estate Broker in Massachusetts

Below, we answer some common questions about the process of becoming a real estate broker in Massachusetts, including timelines, costs, and potential earnings.

Should You Become a Real Estate Broker in Massachusetts?

Obtaining a broker’s license can significantly expand your career opportunities in the real estate industry. As a broker, you can manage your own brokerage, supervise other agents, and potentially earn higher commissions. The extra effort can really pay off—many brokers find the added freedom and earning potential more than worth the investment.

How Fast Can You Get a Broker’s License?

In Massachusetts, you need at least three years of active experience as a licensed salesperson working a minimum of 25 hours per week. 

Only after fulfilling that requirement can you move on to completing the 40-hour broker course and taking the broker exam. 

The total timeline—beyond the three years—varies depending on how quickly you finish the course, apply, and pass the exam.

How Much Do Real Estate Brokers Make?

​Real estate broker earnings in Massachusetts vary based on factors such as experience, market conditions, and business models. 

According to ZipRecruiter, the average annual salary for a real estate broker in Massachusetts is approximately $107,892, with top earners making up to $160,000. 

Salary.com reports that the average salary in Boston is around $114,677, with a typical range between $89,000 and $140,000. 

These figures indicate that while many brokers earn between $90,000 and $100,000 annually, top performers can earn significantly more. Building a strong reputation, expanding your clientele, and effectively managing a team can substantially increase income potential

How Much Does a Real Estate Broker’s License Cost?

The costs to become a broker vary depending on your chosen course provider and application fees. Here’s a general breakdown:

• Pre-Licensing Education: $300 – $500 
• Surety Bond: $50 – $250 (annual), depending on your credit score
• Exam Fee: Approximately $106
• License Application & Issuance Fee: $150 – $200 
• Miscellaneous Costs: Study materials, travel, etc.

Confirm fees with the Massachusetts Board of Registration and your chosen real estate school, as these amounts can change.

What’s the Difference Between Real Estate Brokers and Agents?

In Massachusetts, a real estate agent (formally known as a salesperson) must work under a licensed broker. Agents typically handle day-to-day client interactions for buying, selling, and renting properties but do not operate independently.

A real estate broker, by contrast, can operate independently, open their own brokerage, and supervise other sales agents. Brokers have broader responsibilities and are held to a higher standard of compliance and accountability, which often translates into more earning potential and business independence.

Does Massachusetts Have a Broker’s License Reciprocity Agreement?

Yes. According to the most recent information from the Massachusetts Board of Registration of Real Estate Brokers and Salespersons, Massachusetts offers reciprocity with several states.

If you hold a real estate broker license in one of these reciprocal states, you may qualify for a Massachusetts broker license without retaking the entire exam or completing the full pre-licensing coursework. As of the latest update, the reciprocal states include:

• Colorado
• Connecticut
• Georgia
• Iowa
• Mississippi
• Nebraska
• New Mexico
• Oklahoma (Salespersons and brokers from OK who have been licensed for 2 years)
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• Tennessee
• West Virginia

Requirements can change, so always confirm with the Massachusetts Board of Registration for the most up-to-date information. If you’re licensed in another state, review the reciprocity requirements carefully to determine your eligibility.

Final Thoughts on Becoming a Real Estate Broker in Massachusetts

Becoming a real estate broker in Massachusetts is a clear and rewarding journey—one that opens the door to more freedom, higher income potential and the chance to lead in the industry. From the 40-hour pre-licensing course to passing the exam and activating your license, every step is thoughtfully designed to prepare you for the real-world responsibilities and exciting opportunities that come with running your own brokerage.

Ready to take the next step in your real estate career? Enroll in our partnered real estate broker program for comprehensive training and support. 

Simply click the “Enroll” button below to get started on your journey to becoming a Massachusetts real estate broker!