Becoming a Broker

Revised May 5, 2026

Forms for This Section

Salesperson or Associate Broker Licensing Application
Broker or Managing Associate Broker Licensing Application

Follow the steps below to apply for a broker, managing associate broker, or associate broker licence.

Step 1: Meet eligibility requirements

To be considered eligible for broker-level licensing, you must:

• Have at least 3 years' experience as a salesperson (or equivalent experience approved by the Commission);
• Be considered suitable for licensing and
• Meet at least one of the following criteria:
  1. Have conducted a minimum of 20 residential transactions, including 5 where you represented the buyer in single agency, and 5 where you represented the seller in single agency; or
  2. Have conducted a minimum of 10 commercial transactions, or
  3. Equivalent experience approved by the Commission

Step 2: Complete Broker Licensing Course (BLC) and Pass the Exam

To become licensed, you must complete the BLC and pass the broker exam.

For registration or course information, contact NSAR at www.nsrealtors.ca, 902-468-2515, or  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

After completing the course, you have one year to pass the licensing exam, with a minimum score of 70%. You are allowed a maximum of two attempts. If you are unsuccessful both times, you must wait one year from your last day of class before reapplying to take the course again. Once you pass the exam, you have six months to apply for a licence. For more information about exams, click HERE.

If you require exam accommodations due to a disability, you must submit a request in writing to the Registrar before registering for the exam. This includes identifying your disability, outlining the accommodations requested, and providing supporting documentation, such as medical evidence. View the policy on Accommodation of Applicants with Physical and Mental Disabilities for more info. 

Step 3: Choose your licensing path

After passing the exam, you must choose one of the following:

• Become a broker, managing associate broker, or associate broker at an existing brokerage
• Become a broker and open a new brokerage

Additional requirements apply if opening a new brokerage.

Step 4: Obtain a criminal record check

You must obtain a criminal record check as part of your application.

The Commission provides access to criminal record check applications via MyBackCheck. Use this link which offers a reduced rate of $33 plus tax (regular rate is $55).

The Commission also accepts criminal record checks from the RCMP, Halifax Regional Police, Commissionaires, and municipal or town police services. See the Criminal Record Check Providers Policy for more info. 

Step 5: Submit your application

Complete the appropriate application and submit it with all required documents .

Salesperson or Associate Broker Licence Application (Must be signed by the brokerage owner.)
Broker or Managing Associate Broker Licensing Application (Must be signed by the  broker or managing associate broker of the brokerage you will be licensed with.)

Required documents to attach to your application:

• • Copy of driver’s licence or government issued photo ID
  • Copy of birth certificate, Canadian passport, citizenship card or PR card
  • Original criminal record check (from an approved provider in Step 4)

Once your application is approved, you will be invoiced by email. Payment is made through the NSREC Licensee Portal.

Conditional licensing and audits

First-time broker applicants are issued a conditional licence. Once audit requirements are completed, conditions are removed. The Registrar may adjust the audit schedule as needed.