TL;DR:

Becoming a real estate agent in Ontario starts with meeting basic eligibility requirements and enrolling in the mandatory Real Estate Salesperson Program. Career College Group, a RECO-approved education provider, delivers this program through a mix of theory, simulation sessions, and final exams-preparing you for the realities of working in the industry. After completing the program, you’ll need to register with the Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO), join a brokerage, and complete additional post-registration education within your first two years of practice. The full process typically takes 12 to 24 months and costs around $5,000 CAD, depending on factors like tuition, exam fees, and application costs. With flexible timelines, strong earning potential, and the freedom to shape your own career, becoming a licensed real estate agent in Ontario is an achievable and rewarding path.

Becoming a real estate agent is one of the best ways to reclaim control of your time, income, and future. For many people across the province, figuring out how to become a real estate agent in Ontario is the first step toward a life that feels more aligned with their goals.

This guide breaks it all down, clearly and step by step, so you can make an informed, confident start toward a fulfilling real estate career.

How to Become a Real Estate Agent in Ontario Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility

Before you focus on how to become a real estate agent in Ontario, you’ll need to ensure you meet the basic criteria:

• Be at least 18 years of age
  
• Have a Canadian high school diploma or equivalent
  
• English language proficiency 

No university degree is required. You can begin working toward becoming a licensed real estate agent with a high school education. 

Step 2: Enroll in the Real Estate Salesperson Program

This program is mandatory and prepares you for real-world transactions. Each course builds essential knowledge while simulations offer practical experience, helping you prepare for real client scenarios.

So, how long does it take to become a real estate agent in Ontario? You have up to 24 months to complete the Pre‑Registration Phase, which includes five courses, two simulation sessions, and six exams. Completion time depends on your pace, availability, and study habits.

At Career College Group, our structured cohort model is designed to help learners complete the full Pre‑Registration Phase, including all required courses, simulations, and exams, in approximately 40 weeks.

Step 3: Successfully Complete Your Exams

Almost all courses conclude with a final exam. These assessments are designed to ensure that you understand the theory and know how to apply it in practice. While exams can be challenging, many students pass by dedicating time to prepare and using the program’s support resources.

Step 4: Apply for Reco Registration

After completing the Pre-Registration Phase, the next step to becoming a real estate agent is to apply for registration with RECO. You must do this within 12 months of finishing the coursework. This is the step where you become officially licensed to practice real estate in Ontario.

Step 5: Join a Real Estate Brokerage

You cannot practice independently as a new agent in Ontario. You must work under a registered real estate brokerage. This is where your learning continues, often through mentorship, marketing support, and real-world deal experience.

Step 6: Complete Your Post-registration Requirements

Within the first two years of receiving your license, RECO requires you to complete post-registration education. These additional courses keep you current with new regulations and ensure you remain eligible to renew your license and also provide opportunities to specialize in areas such as investment strategies, waterfront properties, or rural real estate.

What About the Cost?

Another common concern is, “How much does it cost to become a realtor in Ontario?” Between tuition for the Real Estate Salesperson Program, exam fees, RECO registration, insurance, and startup expenses like business cards or website setup, expect to spend around $6,000 to $8,000 CAD. While this may seem significant, it’s a relatively modest investment compared to the income potential and flexibility real estate offers.

Launch Your Real Estate Career With Confidence

Now that you know how to become a licensed real estate agent in Ontario, the next step is simple: Enroll in the Real Estate Salesperson Program and begin your journey with the Career College Group. With the right education, mentorship, and mindset, you can build a successful, rewarding career helping people find their dream homes.

Are you looking for a comprehensive Real Estate Salesperson Program?

Contact the Career College Group for more information. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: How long does it take to become a real estate agent in Ontario?

Answer: 

Completion time depends on your pace, availability, and study habits. As a general guideline:

• RECO allows up to 24 months to complete the Pre‑Registration Phase. At Career College Group, you can join a cohort that completes the phase in approximately 40 weeks.
  
• After that, you have 12 months to apply for registration with RECO and become a licensed real estate salesperson.
  
• Once registered, you’ll complete the Post‑Registration Phase while working for a registered brokerage, with another 24 months to complete the requirements. 

Question: How much does it cost to become a realtor in Ontario?
Answer: Between tuition for the Real Estate Salesperson Program, exam fees, RECO registration, insurance, and startup expenses like business cards or website setup, expect to spend around $6,000 to $8,000 CAD.

Question: How hard is it to pass the real estate exam in Ontario?
Answer: With solid preparation and study habits, many students pass the exam on the first or second attempt.

Question: Can I become a real estate agent in Ontario without a degree?
Answer: Yes, only a high school diploma or equivalent is required.

Question: Do real estate agents in Ontario get paid a salary?
Answer: Typically, no. Most agents work on commission.