How to Become a REALTOR® in Alberta

Becoming a REALTOR® in Alberta involves completing the required education, licensing, and registration steps before you can legally trade in real estate.

1. Meet the eligibility requirements
   You must meet Alberta's requirements to become licensed, including being at least 18 years old, having the required education, and meeting suitability requirements.
2. Complete the required real estate education
   Complete the Real Estate Associate Program (REAP) through the recognized education provider. The program covers the fundamentals of Alberta real estate, legislation, ethics, transactions, and professional responsibilities.
3. Pass the required exams
   You must successfully complete the required exams to demonstrate your knowledge of Alberta real estate practices and legislation.
4. Choose a real estate brokerage
   Before applying for your licence, you will need to select a licensed Alberta brokerage that will supervise your real estate activities.
5. Apply for your real estate licence
   Submit your licensing application through the Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) and provide the required documentation, including eligibility and suitability information.
6. Complete the required licensing requirements
   Once approved, you can receive your Real Estate Associate licence and begin practising under your brokerage.
7. Become a REALTOR®
   After joining a REALTOR® board/association, you can use the REALTOR® designation and access industry resources, MLS® services, professional development, and other member benefits.
8. Start building your real estate business
   Getting licensed is only the beginning. New REALTORS® need to develop skills in lead generation, prospecting, client conversations, contracts, negotiations, marketing, technology, and transaction management to build a successful business.

Important: Licensing as a real estate associate and becoming a REALTOR® are related but not identical. A real estate licence allows you to practise under a brokerage, while REALTOR® membership involves membership in the applicable real estate association/board.