If you’re already a licensed real estate agent, the District of Columbia Real Estate Commission may recognize your salesperson or broker status from a different state. This expedited licensing process is called reciprocity, and when used, will cost you less time and money to become an agent in D.C.

If you’re already licensed in another state, according to the D.C. Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection, you’ll still have to meet some basic D.C. requirements.

• You must be a high school graduate or the holder of a high school equivalency certificate.
• You must not have had a real estate application denied within the last year, other than failure to pass the required examination.
• You must not have had a real estate license suspended or revoked in D.C. or elsewhere.
• You must be at least 18 years of age.

You’ll also need:

• A 2” x 2” photo passport-style photo in .jpeg format;
• An unexpired government-issued form of identification; and
• A debit or credit card to cover fees associated with the licensing process.

Additionally, licensed real estate agents seeking reciprocity must:

Submit a letter of license certification from the original licensing state with official seal, dated within 90 days.

Have two (2) years’ experience as a licensed salesperson. The active license must immediately precede the application date;

Complete a 3-hour D.C. Real Estate Commission-approved fair housing course;

Complete a 3-hour D.C. property management course;

Pass the state portion of the real estate Salesperson exam;

Submit an application and fees to the Commission within six months of examination; and

• Submit a letter of license certification from the original licensing state with official seal, dated within 90 days.