Education · 1 of 4

The path

Courses, exams, then join a brokerage. Ontario's path is shown; other provinces are similar.

1. 1

   High school diploma

   Grade 12

   Ontario requires a Canadian high school diploma or GED (general educational development) certificate, or an equivalent, plus English proficiency.

2. 2

   Pre-registration program

   6 to 12 months

   In Ontario: five courses with exams plus two simulation sessions, offered by Humber Polytechnic, Algonquin, Fleming and one private provider. Real estate essentials, residential and commercial transactions, then a career launch course. Must be finished within 24 months.

3. 3

   Register with the regulator

   Weeks

   Apply to RECO (Real Estate Council of Ontario) within one year of finishing. You must be employed by a registered brokerage to register.

4. 4

   Post-registration program

   First 2 years

   More courses in your first two years while you work under a broker.

5. 5

   Continuing education

   Ongoing

   Ongoing courses every renewal cycle. Later, a broker's licence lets you run your own brokerage.