Becoming a real estate agent

RECO has established rigorous requirements that each learner must successfully complete before applying to register with RECO as a real estate agent in Ontario.

The real estate pre-registration program focuses on an interactive approach that mirrors real-life scenarios. It offers a standardized curriculum that reflects the real-world flow of a real estate transaction, combining coursework, exams, and interactive simulations led by facilitators with extensive real estate experience.

Learners must complete the pre-registration education program at one of the following educational institutions:

Program benefits

• Transaction-focused learning: With courses that follow the lifecycle of a real estate transaction, learners gain insight into key aspects of real estate trades.
• Comprehensive knowledge management system: Courses are offered through a robust online resource providing easy access to essential materials like job aids, checklists, and guides to reinforce learning.
• Mandatory simulation sessions: These hands-on, immersive sessions enable learners to apply their knowledge in a simulated environment, practicing the critical elements of a real estate transaction under expert guidance to ensure compliance with the law.
• Facilitated review sessions: Optional facilitator-led tutorial type sessions that offer additional support to learners on complex real estate concepts. 

Eligibility

To qualify for admission, an applicant must hold a Canadian secondary school diploma or GED certificate, or an acceptable equivalent credential. Proven English language proficiency is also required. Additional requirements may apply and should be confirmed directly with the providers. 

Course fees

Please refer to the educational provider’s website to confirm applicable program fees. 

Program structure and exams

RECO’s program for those learners pursuing a career as a real estate agent starts with an education program that includes five courses and two hands-on simulation sessions, each culminating in a theory exam. The program provides a comprehensive, in-depth understanding of the real estate industry and compliance requirements, exposing learners to the complexities of residential and commercial real estate transactions.

Upon completing all five courses, exams, simulation sessions and associated exams, learners are eligible to apply for registration as a real estate agent with RECO.

Program timeline

Learners must complete the Pre-registration education program within 24 months from the day they begin their first course.

Next steps

• After successfully completing this program, learners are eligible to apply for registration with RECO.
• From the time pre-registration program is completed, individuals have one year to submit an application to register as a real estate agent with RECO.
• Graduates of the program who are fully registered with RECO will continue to expand their knowledge of real estate trading through on-the-job training at their brokerage (including brokerage-specific policies and procedures).
• Following registration with RECO, agents must complete the post-registration program through one of the listed education providers within two years.
• After completing the post-registration program, all agents will continue to expand their knowledge through on-going coaching and training at their brokerage and with RECO’s continuing education.