How to Become a REALTOR® In 2025
Becoming a REALTOR® is a rewarding path for those looking to build a career in real estate. Whether you are new to the industry or a seasoned agent, becoming a member of the National Association of REALTORS®️ (NAR) opens doors to exclusive benefits, education, and credibility.
Here’s your guide on how to become a REALTOR® in 2025, walking you step by step through the process and listing all the benefits that come with it.
What Is the National Association of REALTORS®️ (NAR)?
To help you understand the difference between a real estate agent and a REALTOR®, you must first understand what the National Association of REALTORS®️ is. NAR®️ is the largest professional trade organization in the U.S., representing over 1.5 million members.
NAR provides resources, advocacy, and education to ensure that members have the tools needed to succeed in the real estate industry. Membership in NAR gives you access to cutting-edge technology, legal support, and opportunities for professional development.
What's the Difference Between a Real Estate Agent and a REALTOR®?
The real estate terms "real estate agent" and "REALTOR®" are often used interchangeably. However, they are not the same thing. If you're interested in entering the real estate profession, it's an important distinction to understand.
Real Estate Agent
A real estate agent is someone who has earned a state-issued real estate license that allows them to work with buyers or sellers to facilitate real estate transactions. To become a real estate agent, you need to take the required pre-license courses and pass your state's licensing exam.
Moreover, the term "real estate agent" can be used to refer to licensees of any level, but it's sometimes used specifically for the lowest level of real estate licensing. These agents, sometimes called "sales agents," can only practice under the supervision of a "broker," which is the next level of license.
It's worth noting that in a few states like Washington, these levels are called "broker" and "managing broker" instead. However, it's not incorrect to refer to any of these professionals as real estate agents.
REALTOR®
"REALTOR®" is a federally registered collective membership mark. The term identifies real estate professionals as a member of the National Association of REALTORS®️ (NAR®).
Essentially, all REALTORS® are real estate agents, but not all real estate agents are REALTORS®.
Steps to Become a REALTOR® in 2025
There are a few steps you'll need to take to become a REALTOR®. Fortunately, we’ve outlined these steps below to save you hours of research and misunderstandings:
Step 1: Get a Real Estate License
The first step in becoming a REALTOR® is getting your real estate license. How can you achieve this? Follow these steps:
- Complete a minimum number of courses from a state-approved real estate school.
- Take a real estate exam, which covers the content of your courses. This includes information on local, state, and national laws, real estate contracts, and standards of practice.
- Submit fingerprints for a background check.
- Submit your license application and pay a licensing fee.
Each state's real estate commission (REC) maintains its own set of educational requirements and fees. You'll need to check with your state's REC to learn the specifics for earning your license in that state.
Step 2: Meet NAR®'s Membership Qualification Criteria
To be eligible to become a REALTOR®, you must:
- Have a valid and active real estate license,
- Be actively engaged in the real estate business,
- Not have a record of official sanctions involving unprofessional conduct,
- Not have filed for any recent or pending bankruptcy.
In other words, after receiving your license, you will need to "hang your hat" with a brokerage firm in your area, start your practice, and keep your nose clean.
If you're interested in becoming a REALTOR®, your firm's principal – i.e., branch office manager, sole proprietor, firm partner, corporate officer, and/or majority shareholder – must also be a member in good standing. This usually isn't a problem, but it's good to verify that you'll be eligible.
Step 3: Join a Local REALTORS® Association
Next, you need to join one of NAR®'s local real estate associations. NAR® has over 1,400 associations across the United States, and you can find the closest online near you with NAR®'s find an association tool.
Step 4: Pay a One-Time Application Fee
After the Board of Directors of your local association approves your membership, you must pay a one-time application fee and any prorated membership fees. Application fees vary for each association.
Step 5: Pay Annual Membership Dues
Once you become a REALTOR®, you need to pay annual dues to remain an active member of your local association. According to NAR®’s membership page, membership dues are a combination of three branches within the association:
- Local Association of REALTORS®: Membership dues are a combination of three branches within the association.
- State Association of REALTORS®: Dues are set by the state you’re licensed in.
- National Association of REALTORS®: $150/year (membership)
What Are the Benefits of Becoming a REALTOR®?
There are many benefits to becoming a real estate agent, and the same goes for becoming a REALTOR®. While becoming a REALTOR® is not required for you to have a successful career in real estate, many advantages will help you stand out in your industry.
Reputation
Becoming a member of NAR® provides you with credibility that other agents don't possess.
When you become a member of the NAR® you swear to subscribe to a strict code of ethics, and the organization holds you to account. As a result, REALTORS® have a reputation for trustworthiness in the profession.
Resources
NAR® membership provides access to resources that you, as an independent contractor, could never afford by yourself. NAR® conducts market research that can give you an edge over your competitors. You'll also have access to qualified real estate attorneys through the REALTORS® Legal Hotline.
Additionally, your dues will contribute to NAR®'s political advocacy efforts at the local, state, and national levels. They monitor legislation that will affect the real estate industry and lobby in the interest of the profession.
Finally, NAR® has partnerships across many industries with negotiated rates or discounts on essentials like health insurance, travel, print marketing, electronics, and other business supplies.
Networking
As an NAR® member, you'll be able to develop working relationships with agents outside your brokerage. This can expand your sphere of influence and help you grow your business.
In addition to the local association meetings, REALTORS® have access to educational meetings, conventions, special events, and professional development opportunities that allow for broader networking opportunities.
Real Estate Designations and Certifications
Take advantage of NAR’s real estate educational programs, including specialized certifications and designations that can boost your expertise and marketability.
As a REALTOR®, you will have the ability to take additional classes that will allow you to receive highly sought-after real estate designations. These designations can help you become an expert in your niche and allow you to grow your business and increase your earnings and income potential.
Some of the most popular certifications include:
- Graduate REALTOR® Institute (GRI) Designation
- Certified Residential Specialist (CRS)
- Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES®)
- Resort & Second-Home Markets (RSPS) Designation
Get more information and view a list of real estate designations and certifications on NAR®'s website.
Why You Should Join the National Association of REALTORS®️ (NAR) in 2025
Joining the NAR 2025 offers numerous benefits, which we’ve already discussed, that can help elevate your real estate career. In a rapidly evolving market, having the backing of the largest trade association in the industry ensures you stay competitive and well-equipped to navigate challenges.
In 2025, with the real estate landscape continuing to change, joining NAR®️ will give you the support, credibility, and resources needed to thrive. NAR®️’s extensive educational programs, certifications, and designations allow you to specialize in niche markets and expand your expertise, boosting potential earnings.
If you’re interested in joining the 1.5 million+ NAR®️ members, you should first get your real estate license or complete your Continuing Education (CE) courses with a trusted provider like VanEd. Sign up today!
Written and Published by: VanEd
