Real Estate Agent Permit Requirements in Boston, MA

Complete permit and license guide for starting a real estate agent in Boston, Suffolk County, Massachusetts.

$500 -- $1300 4–12 weeks to obtain license and begin practice 4 requirements

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

Boston / Suffolk County Requirements

1 requirement
1

City of Boston — Business Certificate (if operating a brokerage)

Individual real estate salespersons licensed by the Massachusetts Board do not need a separate Boston license. If operating an independent brokerage in Boston, a Business Certificate (DBA) and business license from the City Clerk is required.

$65 (DBA) + $100–$200 (business license, brokerage only)1–2 weeks
Official government source

Massachusetts State Requirements

2 requirements
1

Massachusetts Board of Registration of Real Estate Brokers and Salespersons — Salesperson License

Massachusetts requires real estate salesperson applicants to complete 40 hours of pre-licensing education, pass the Massachusetts Real Estate Salesperson Examination (administered by PSI), and register with the Board of Registration of Real Estate Brokers and Salespersons. You must work under a licensed broker.

$31 (exam fee) + $150 (license fee) + $150–$300 (pre-licensing education)4–10 weeks
Official government source
2

Errors & Omissions (E&O) Insurance

Most real estate brokerages require agents to carry Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance, which protects against claims of negligent acts or omissions in real estate transactions. Some states mandate it; most brokerages require it. Coverage typically starts at $100,000 per occurrence.

$300–$800/year1–5 business days
Official government source

Federal Requirements

1 requirement
1

EIN (Employer Identification Number)

Required if you operate as an LLC, corporation, or have employees. Free from the IRS. Even sole proprietors may benefit from obtaining an EIN to keep business and personal finances separate.

FreeImmediate (online application)
Official government source

Official Sources

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