How to Get a Real Estate Licence in Alberta

If you want to become a REALTOR® in Alberta, the first step is actually obtaining a real estate associate licence through the Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA). You then join a brokerage and, if applicable, become a REALTOR® member through the appropriate real estate association.

Here is the process in simple terms:

1. Make sure you meet the eligibility requirements

Before starting your education, you must meet RECA's eligibility requirements. Generally, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
• Have valid government-issued identification
• Have at least a Canadian high school education or equivalent
• Demonstrate English language proficiency
• Meet RECA's good character and suitability requirements

2. Create a myRECA account

Create an account through myRECA, RECA's online system for licensing and education. This is where you complete your eligibility process and manage your licensing requirements.

3. Complete the eligibility process

RECA must approve you as eligible to take the required pre-licensing education.

This includes providing information and documentation related to your education, identity and suitability.

4. Complete the required real estate education

For someone entering residential real estate, there are two main education components:

Fundamentals of Real Estate
This introduces you to the fundamentals of the Alberta real estate industry.

Practice of Residential Real Estate
This focuses on applying your knowledge to the actual practice of residential real estate.

Both courses must be completed through a RECA-recognized education provider, and you must successfully complete the associated exams.

5. Pass the RECA exams

You must successfully complete the required pre-licensing exams.

This is an important part of the process because the exams test your knowledge of the legislation, rules, principles and practices you will need as a real estate professional. RECA currently lists the pre-licensing examination fee at $235.

6. Complete your criminal record check

As you approach completion of your education, you will need to provide RECA with a Certified Criminal Record Check. RECA uses this as part of its suitability review for licensing.

7. Choose a real estate brokerage

Once your education and licensing requirements are complete, you need to find a licensed Alberta brokerage willing to take you on.

This is an important decision for a new REALTOR® because brokerages can differ significantly in:

• Commission structures
• Fees
• Training
• Mentorship
• Lead generation support
• Technology
• Marketing
• Administrative support
• Culture
• Transaction support

8. Apply for your licence through your brokerage

Your brokerage's broker initiates the licensing process with RECA. You complete the licensing application and pay the applicable licensing fees.

9. Receive your real estate licence

Once RECA approves the application and all requirements have been satisfied, you receive your real estate associate licence.

At this point, you can legally trade in real estate on behalf of clients under your brokerage. RECA states that anyone trading in real estate on behalf of another person for compensation must hold the appropriate licence.

10. Join your REALTOR® association and start your business

After becoming licensed, you can complete the applicable REALTOR® membership process and begin building your business.

Your licence gets you into the industry. Your success will depend on what you do afterward—building a database, generating leads, learning the sales process, understanding contracts, developing your personal brand, and learning how to convert prospects into clients.

The Simple Roadmap

Eligibility → Education → Exams → Criminal Record Check → Choose Brokerage → Licence Application → Real Estate Licence → REALTOR® Membership → Build Your Business