Real Estate Agent in District of Columbia

Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for DC

Median Salary
$43,720
District of Columbia (2024)
National Median
$56,320
All states
License Fees
$356
Exam + application
Time to Complete
2-4 months
From start to licensed

How to Become a Real Estate Agent in District of Columbia

To become a licensed Real Estate Agent in the District of Columbia, individuals must meet several requirements set by the District of Columbia Real Estate Commission. This includes completing a 60-hour pre-licensing course, passing the PSI licensing exam, and undergoing a criminal background check. The application process typically takes 2-4 months, and licenses must be renewed every two years with 15 hours of continuing education. Reciprocity is available for agents licensed in other states, though specific coursework and the DC state portion of the exam are still required.

Real Estate Agent Requirements in District of Columbia

DetailDistrict of Columbia
Licensing BodyDistrict of Columbia Real Estate Commission
State License Required Yes
Education60-hour pre-licensing course
Exam District of Columbia Real Estate Salesperson Exam (PSI) ($62)
Application Fee$295
RenewalEvery 2.0 years
Continuing Education15.0 hours per cycle
NotesApplicants must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent. A criminal background check and fingerprinting are required. Applicants must not have had a real estate application denied within the last year (other than for failing the exam) or a real estate license suspended or revoked in D.C. or elsewhere. Must submit the application within six months of passing the exam.

Source: District of Columbia Real Estate Commission

License Tiers

District of Columbia offers multiple tiers of real estate agent licensing:

Tier Hours Required
Salesperson N/A
Broker N/A

Real Estate Agent Salary in District of Columbia

The median real estate agent salary in District of Columbia is $43,720 per year, which is 22.4% below the national median of $56,320.

PercentileAnnual Salary
10th (entry level)$36,310
25th$39,810
50th (median)$43,720
75th$96,410
90th (experienced)$130,240

District of Columbia employs approximately 450 real estate agents.

Real Estate Agent Job Outlook

10-Year Growth
+3.1%
Average
Annual Openings
36.6
Nationwide per year
Total Employment
420.9
Nationwide

AI Impact on Real Estate Agents

High AI Exposure (Score: 0.86/1.00)

Many tasks in this career are susceptible to AI automation. Long-term career planning should account for potential disruption.

Is Becoming a Real Estate Agent in District of Columbia Worth It?

Factors to consider: District of Columbia's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, elevated AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's required to work as a real estate agent in District of Columbia?
To become a real estate agent in District of Columbia, you need to complete the required education (60-hour pre-licensing course), pass the District of Columbia Real Estate Salesperson Exam (PSI), and submit your application ($295 fee).
Is a real estate agent license required in District of Columbia?
Yes, District of Columbia requires a state license to practice as a real estate agent. The licensing body is District of Columbia Real Estate Commission. You must pass the District of Columbia Real Estate Salesperson Exam (PSI).
How much do real estate agents make in District of Columbia?
District of Columbia real estate agents bring home a median salary of $43,720. This trails the $56,320 national median by 22%. Wages range from $36,310 (10th percentile) up to $130,240 (90th percentile).
What are the fees to become a real estate agent in District of Columbia?
Between exam fee ($62) and application fee ($295), expect to invest around varies in total to get started.
How long does it take to become a real estate agent in District of Columbia?
Most candidates in District of Columbia complete the process in 2-4 months, from enrollment in a training program through licensure.
What are the continuing education requirements for real estate agents in District of Columbia?
To keep your license active, District of Columbia mandates 15.0 CE hours every 2.0 years.

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