Real Estate Agent Permit Requirements in Boston, MA

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

Updated 2026-03-15 4 stops $500–$1,300 est. 4–12 weeks to obtain license and begin practice
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Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. This guide was compiled from public and official sources (last updated ) and has not yet been independently source-verified — confirm each requirement before acting on it.

Federal — start here

1 stop

  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.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

State of Massachusetts

2 stops

  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.

    Official government source

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

  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.

    Official government source

    $300–$800/year1–5 business days

City of Boston / Suffolk County

1 stop

  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.

    Official government source

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

Terminus

Open for business — est. $500–$1,300 · 4–12 weeks to obtain license and begin practice

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Official Sources

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