Your path into New York real estate
From qualifying education to your first sponsoring broker: what New York requires, in order, and where KEYMAX360 supplemental preparation fits along the way.
Two different kinds of education
Qualifying education (required)
A 77-hour salesperson course from a school approved by the New York State Department of State, ending with a proctored school exam. You must complete it before you can be licensed.
KEYMAX360 (supplemental)
Career and exam preparation alongside or after your qualifying course. It does not replace that course, does not award licensing credit, and does not guarantee an exam result or a license.
How to become a New York State real estate salesperson
A summary of the Department of State requirements, alongside where KEYMAX360 can help. Requirements can change. Confirm current details with the Department of State before you act.
Meet the basic eligibility requirement
State requirementBe at least 18 years old.
Where KEYMAX360 helpsAn orientation to the profession and the licensing path in Module 01.
Complete 77 hours of qualifying education
State requirementComplete 77 hours of salesperson qualifying education through a school approved by the Department of State, including the school's proctored final examination.
Where KEYMAX360 helpsSupplemental review that reinforces qualifying-course topics. KEYMAX360 is not an approved qualifying course and does not count toward the 77 hours.
Pass the state examination
State requirementSchedule the exam online through eAccessNY. It is multiple choice, based on the 77-hour curriculum, with 1.5 hours to complete. Passing results are valid for two years.
Where KEYMAX360 helpsPractice questions, timed model tests, and focused topic review in Module 12.
Find a sponsoring broker
State requirementBe sponsored by a New York State licensed real estate broker. A salesperson works under a broker's direction and cannot operate independently.
Where KEYMAX360 helpsGuidance on evaluating brokerages and preparing for interviews, plus the KeyMax Realty pathway described below.
Apply for your license
State requirementSubmit your salesperson application with the $65 initial application fee. Licenses are issued for a two-year term.
Where KEYMAX360 helpsA checklist for the application and for your first steps in practice.
Practice and renew
State requirementRenewal requires 22.5 hours of approved continuing education and an active sponsoring broker.
Where KEYMAX360 helpsBusiness, client-workflow, and AI modules for early practice. KEYMAX360 does not provide approved continuing-education credit.
Source: New York State Department of State
Beyond the exam: finding a sponsoring broker
In New York, a salesperson must be sponsored by a licensed real estate broker to be licensed and works under that broker's direction. Choosing that broker is one of the most important decisions early in your career.
Practice-ready preparation
Modules on transactions, client intake, and building a business connect exam concepts to day-to-day New York practice.
Brokerage readiness
What to look for in a sponsoring broker, which questions to ask, and how to prepare for brokerage interviews.
KeyMax Realty pathway
Learners who have passed the state examination may have the opportunity to interview with KeyMax Realty about potential sponsorship.
Sponsorship is a decision made by the broker after a mutual interview and is subject to state licensing requirements. Completing a KEYMAX360 program does not guarantee sponsorship, employment, or income.
Prepare for each step
Review the 12-module curriculum, or start with answers to common licensing questions.