Real Estate Agent Permit Requirements in New Orleans, LA

Complete permit and license guide for starting a real estate agent in New Orleans, Orleans County, Louisiana.

$300 -- $900 4–10 weeks to obtain licensing and complete pre-licensing education 5 requirements

Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: .

New Orleans / Orleans County Requirements

2 requirements
1

Louisiana Real Estate Commission — Salesperson or Broker License

Real estate agents in Louisiana must be licensed by the Louisiana Real Estate Commission. Requires 90 hours of pre-licensing education and passing the state exam. Brokers require additional education and experience.

$90–$150 (salesperson); $150–$250 (broker)4–8 weeks
Official government source
2

City of New Orleans Bureau of Revenue / Department of Safety and Permits — Business License

New Orleans requires a City Business License (Annual Business Tax) and a Certificate of Occupancy for all businesses. The Bureau of Revenue handles business taxes; the Department of Safety and Permits handles occupancy and zoning. This license must be renewed annually and displayed at your place of business.

$50–$500/year depending on business type and gross revenues1–3 weeks
Official government source

Louisiana State Requirements

2 requirements
1

Louisiana Department of Revenue — Sales Tax Registration

Required for all businesses selling taxable goods or services in Louisiana. Louisiana's state sales tax rate is 4.45%. Louisiana has a complex tax structure with local parish sales taxes that can bring the total rate to 8–12%. Register with the Louisiana Department of Revenue and separately with each applicable parish.

Free1–5 business days (online)
Official government source
2

Louisiana Real Estate Errors & Omissions (E&O) Insurance

While not always legally required, most brokerages in Louisiana require agents to carry Errors and Omissions insurance. E&O coverage protects agents from claims arising from mistakes or negligence in real estate transactions.

$300–$1,000/yearImmediate (once licensed)
Official government source

Federal Requirements

1 requirement
1

EIN (Employer Identification Number)

Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC or corporation. Free from the IRS.

FreeImmediate (online application)
Official government source

Official Sources

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