Choose Your License Path
Compare Massachusetts Real Estate Salesperson vs. Broker Licensing
Exam Format Comparison
Both exams follow identical testing procedures
80 Questions
Both Exams
2.5 Hours
150 Minutes
70% to Pass
56 Correct Answers
PSI Centers
Computer-Based Testing
Exam Structure (Both Licenses):
- National Portion: 70 Questions
- Massachusetts Portion: 10 Questions
- Exam Fee: $95 (same for both)
- Retake Policy: Additional fees apply
Salesperson License
Entry-level real estate license
Prerequisites:
- No prior real estate experience required
- 40-hour pre-licensing education
- High school diploma or equivalent
Exam Content:
- Basic real estate principles
- Property ownership fundamentals
- Contracts and financing basics
- Massachusetts real estate law
What You Can Do:
- Represent buyers and sellers
- Work under broker supervision
- Earn real estate commissions
Limitations:
- Cannot work independently
- Cannot supervise other agents
- Cannot open own brokerage
Broker License
Advanced real estate license
Prerequisites:
- 3+ years active salesperson experience
- 30-hour broker pre-licensing education
- Current salesperson license in good standing
Exam Content:
- Advanced business management
- Agent supervision responsibilities
- Complex transaction management
- Regulatory compliance
What You Can Do:
- Work independently
- Supervise other agents
- Open and operate a brokerage
- Hire and manage sales staff
Career Advancement:
- Independent practice
- Business ownership opportunities
- Leadership and supervision roles
Typical Career Path
Get Salesperson License
Complete 40-hour education, pass exam, start working under a broker
Gain Experience
Work for 3+ years as an active salesperson, learn the business
Become a Broker
Complete broker education, pass broker exam, start your own business
Which License Should You Choose?
Choose Salesperson If:
- You're new to real estate
- You want to start earning quickly
- You prefer working with a team
- You want to learn under experienced supervision
Choose Broker If:
- You have 3+ years salesperson experience
- You want to work independently
- You plan to open your own brokerage
- You want to supervise other agents