How to Become a Real Estate Broker in Vermont

Thinking about taking the next big step in your real estate career and becoming a broker in Vermont? You’re in the right place. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from meeting the state’s requirements to passing the broker exam. We’ll also cover key details like timelines, costs, and reciprocity. By the end, you’ll have a clear, step-by-step roadmap to help you earn your Vermont broker’s license with confidence.

Steps to Become a Real Estate Broker in Vermont

Let’s walk through the key steps you’ll need to take to become a licensed broker in the Green Mountain State—and set yourself up for success.

1. Confirm You’re Eligible
2. Complete the Required Broker Pre-Licensing Education
3. Submit Your Application to the Vermont Real Estate Commission
4. Pass the Vermont Broker Exam
5. Complete a Background Check
6. Finalize Your License Application
7. Join (or Establish) a Brokerage

1. Confirm You’re Eligible

Before you dive in, it’s important to make sure you meet Vermont’s basic requirements to become a real estate broker. In most cases, that means you’ll need to:

• You must have an active and valid Vermont real estate salesperson license in good standing.
• You’ll need at least two years of hands-on real estate experience—or the equivalent—especially if you've been licensed and active in another state.
• Show good moral character.

Be sure to check the Vermont Real Estate Commission’s official guidelines for the most up-to-date requirements, as they can change over time. Keeping your salesperson license in good standing and gaining solid, hands-on experience will help ensure you're truly ready to take on the responsibilities of a broker.

2. Complete the Required Broker Pre-Licensing Education

To become a broker in Vermont, you’ll need to complete 40 hours of state-approved Broker pre-licensing education. These courses dive into key topics that give you the solid foundation you’ll need to succeed in a broker role. You can expect to cover subjects like:

• Agency Relationships and Contracts
• Real Property Ownership/interest 
• Finance 
• Marketing Regulations 
• Property Management
• Real Estate Calculations
• Laws related to Real Estate

Looking for a course you can trust? Check out our partnered real estate broker program—it’s fully accredited and covers all the essential topics you’ll need to feel confident and prepared every step of the way.

Course Final Exam and Certificate

To complete your broker pre-licensing course, you’ll need to pass the final exam with a score of at least 75%. Don’t worry if you don’t pass on the first try—you can retake the exam as many times as you need until you get it right.

Once you finish your course, you’ll get an electronic certificate of completion, which will stay in your student account for at least five years—so you can easily access it whenever you need it.

Since Vermont doesn’t require schools to report course completions directly, it’s important to hang on to your certificate and include it with your broker application when the time comes.

3. Submit Your Application to the Vermont Real Estate Commission

Once you’ve completed your pre-licensing coursework and received your certificate, it’s time to take the next big step—submitting your application to the Vermont Real Estate Commission. Here’s what that usually includes:

• Submitting your certificate to show you’ve completed the required 40-hour broker course.
• Providing proof that you hold an active Vermont salesperson license and have the necessary real-world experience.
• Taking care of the required application fees to move your process forward.

Take your time filling out the application, and double-check that all your details and paperwork are accurate. Even small mistakes or missing info can slow down the review process with the Commission.

4. Pass the Vermont Broker Exam

Once your application gets the green light, you’ll be ready to schedule and take the Vermont real estate broker exam. Here’s what to expect:

• How to Apply for the Exam: You’ll typically register through an approved testing service (e.g., PSI) once the Vermont Real Estate Commission grants permission. You can schedule your exam online or by phone.

The exam consists of two portions—national and state-specific. 

You can expect 140 questions in total (about 90 national questions and 50 Vermont-specific questions).

You’ll need a score of 75% or higher to pass each exam.

• Exam Day Tips: Plan to arrive early, bring two valid forms of ID, and set yourself up for success by reviewing your coursework and taking a few practice exams ahead of time. A little extra prep can go a long way!

Preparation is everything when it comes to passing the exam. Make sure you’re confident with both the national content and Vermont-specific material so you can give it your best shot—and hopefully pass on the first try!

5. Complete a Background Check

A background check is a standard part of getting your real estate license. In Vermont, that includes fingerprinting and a review of your criminal history to help protect consumers and maintain trust in the industry. Be sure to follow the Commission’s instructions closely—missing a step could slow things down.

6. Finalize Your License Application

Once you’ve passed the exam and completed your background check, it’s time to wrap things up by submitting any final paperwork to the Vermont Real Estate Commission. This last step usually includes:

• Submitting your official exam results to confirm you’ve passed.
• Providing documentation from your background check to show you’ve been cleared.
• Paying the final licensing fees to make everything official.

Once everything’s been reviewed and approved, you’ll officially receive your Vermont real estate broker’s license—and be ready to take the next big step in your career!

7. Join (or Establish) a Brokerage

With your broker’s license in hand, you can either:

• Join an existing brokerage - Consider joining an established brokerage as an associate broker—you’ll gain access to shared resources, built-in support, and a ready-made client base to help you hit the ground running.
• Start your own brokerage - take the leap and start your own brokerage—giving you full control over how you run your business, build your brand, and grow your team.

Choose the path that aligns best with your goals—whether that means joining an established firm for support and structure, or carving out your own path as an independent broker with full control.

FAQs about Becoming a Real Estate Broker in Vermont

Got questions about becoming a broker in Vermont? You’re not alone. Here are answers to some of the most common things aspiring brokers want to know.

Should You Become a Real Estate Broker in Vermont?

Earning your broker’s license comes with a lot of great benefits, including:

• More Independence: Run your own firm, make your own decisions, and take full control of your business—no need to work under someone else.
• Higher Earning Potential: As a broker, you can keep a bigger share of your commissions—and even boost your income by overseeing and supporting other agents.
• Professional Growth: Expand your expertise, build your credibility, and set yourself apart in a competitive real estate market.

If you’re drawn to leadership, enjoy mentoring others, and are ready for more responsibility, becoming a broker is a natural next step in your real estate career.

How Fast Can You Get a Broker’s License?

The timeline can vary depending on your schedule and how quickly you move through each step. On average, you can expect:

• Pre-Licensing Education (40 hours): Anywhere from a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on whether you take the course full-time or fit it in part-time around your schedule.
• Exam Scheduling and Results: Add a few more weeks to schedule your exam, take it, and get your results back.
• Background Check and Final Paperwork: Plan for a few additional weeks to allow time for processing and approval.

With good planning, you could complete the entire process in about 2–3 months. If you’re juggling other commitments, it might take a bit longer—and that’s totally okay.

How Much Do Real Estate Brokers Make?

​In Vermont, real estate brokers often take home higher earnings than sales agents. That’s because they can manage their own deals and also bring in additional income by overseeing and supporting other agents on their team. 

As of 2024, real estate brokers in Vermont earned a median annual salary of $73,000, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Those at the top of their game brought in even more—earning up to $102,970. 

That said, earnings can vary a bit depending on where you work. In Southern Vermont’s nonmetropolitan area, the median annual salary is around $108,000, while brokers in the Burlington–South Burlington area earn about $103,000 on average.

These numbers show that brokers often have the potential to out-earn sales agents—especially those who run successful brokerages and build strong teams.

How Much Does It Cost to Get Your Real Estate Broker’s License?

Costs can vary depending on where and how you complete each step, but here’s a general breakdown to give you an idea:

• Pre-Licensing Course Tuition (40 hours): $300 – $400
• Exam Fee: $110 – $220
• Application and Licensing Fee: $100
• Background Check/Fingerprinting: $30 – $100
• Miscellaneous (Study Materials, Exam Prep): $50 – $200

Be sure to budget for both your pre-licensing education and any additional licensing fees along the way.

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

Real Estate Agents (Salespersons):

• Work under the guidance of a licensed broker.
• Focus on day-to-day tasks like listing homes, showing properties, and writing up purchase agreements.
• Typically split their commissions with the broker they work under.

Real Estate Brokers:

• Complete extra education, pass a more advanced exam, and meet experience requirements.
• Have the option to work independently or start their own brokerage.
• Oversee agents, handle trust accounts, and create policies that guide how the business runs.

Brokers enjoy more freedom and the potential to earn higher commissions—but with that comes added responsibility and a greater level of accountability.

Does Vermont Have a Broker’s License Reciprocity Agreement?

Vermont doesn’t have official reciprocity agreements with other states, so out-of-state agents will need to meet Vermont’s licensing requirements to practice here.

You can’t directly transfer your broker’s license from another state to Vermont. However, if you have a current and active broker (or equivalent) license elsewhere, you may be able to skip the national portion of the exam. That said, the Vermont Real Estate Commission still requires you to pass the state-specific portion to get licensed here.

Rules can change, so for the most accurate and up-to-date info, it’s always a good idea to check the Vermont Real Estate Commission’s website or reach out to them directly.

Final Thoughts on Becoming a Real Estate Broker in Vermont

If you're ready to take on more responsibility, gain greater independence, and boost your earning potential, becoming a real estate broker in Vermont could be the perfect next step. By meeting the state’s experience requirements, completing the 40-hour pre-licensing course, and passing the broker exam, you’ll be setting yourself up for a whole new level of success in your real estate career.

Ready to take the next step? Join our trusted real estate broker program for accredited training that covers everything you need to succeed. Just click the “Enroll” button below and start your journey toward becoming a licensed broker today!