FAQ: What are the requirements for applying for a license in TN?

In order to apply for an affiliate broker license in Tennessee, you must first meet the following three requirements:

1) Be at least 18 years of age.

2) Able to provide proof of high school diploma or equivalent.

3) If you have a prior conviction, and are currently on parole or probation, the Tennessee Real Estate Commission requires that at least two years must have passed from the date of expiration of probation, conviction or release from incarceration, whichever is latest, before you can be scheduled for the state licensing exam.

According to the Tennessee Real Estate Commission, meeting the age and education requirements, along with successful completion of the state examination, does not guarantee issuance of an affiliate broker license, however. According to TCA 62-13-303, licenses shall only be granted to persons who bear a good reputation for honesty, trustworthiness, integrity and competence to transact the business of affiliate broker in a manner to safeguard the interest of the public. A license will only be granted after satisfactory proof of such qualifications has been presented to the commission.

All applications are also carefully reviewed by the Tennessee Real Estate Commission. Candidates will provide fingerprints so that background checks may be conducted by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, then reported to the Commission.

In addition to the basic requirements for age and education, candidates must answer a series of six qualifying questions when taking the state exam for affiliate broker license. These questions cover such areas as providing certification if you hold a license in another state; whether you have ever been refused a professional license or had a license revoked, suspended, reprimanded, or fined by any federal, state, or local government; whether you have ever been refused a real estate license or had it revoked, suspended, or subject to reprimand or fines; whether you’ve had a complaint filed against you with a regulatory agency or court; whether you’ve been convicted, pled guilty or pled no contest to any felony or misdemeanor in the last 10 years; and whether you meet age requirements.