How to Become a Real Estate Agent in Ontario (2026 Guide)

Before you begin your real estate education, make sure you meet the basic eligibility criteria set by the Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO):

• Age: You must be at least 18 years old at the time of registration.
• Residency: You must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or have valid authorization to work in Canada.
• Criminal Record: You must have a clean criminal record. RECO will conduct a background check as part of the registration process. Minor offences may not disqualify you, but serious convictions likely will.
• Education: While there is no formal degree requirement, strong literacy and numeracy skills are essential for the coursework and career.

If you have any concerns about your eligibility, contact RECO directly before investing in coursework.

Ontario requires all prospective real estate salespersons to complete four pre-registration courses through Humber College, the sole authorized education provider in the province. These courses are available entirely online and can be completed at your own pace.

Each course costs approximately $1,000 – $1,250. Courses must be completed sequentially, starting with Real Estate Essentials. Most students spend 4-6 weeks per course studying part-time (10-15 hours per week).

Each of the four Humber College courses concludes with a proctored exam. Here is what to expect:

Pro tip: Use practice exams and question banks to familiarize yourself with the exam format. Our 540+ Canadian practice questions cover all major topics tested on the Ontario exams.

After passing all four course exams, you can apply for registration as a salesperson with the Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO). RECO is the regulatory authority responsible for administering the Trust in Real Estate Services Act (TRESA).

The registration process includes:

• Submitting your application online through the RECO portal
• Paying the $590 registration fee (for a two-year registration cycle)
• Providing proof of completion of all four pre-registration courses
• Consenting to a criminal background check
• Naming your employing brokerage (you must have one before registration)

RECO typically processes applications within 2-4 weeks. You cannot practice real estate until your registration is active.

All registered real estate professionals in Ontario must carry Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance. This mandatory coverage protects you and your clients in case of professional mistakes, omissions, or negligence during real estate transactions.

• Cost: Approximately $550 per year
• Provider: RECO arranges group E&O insurance for all registrants
• Coverage: Professional liability arising from real estate services

The insurance fee is typically included in your RECO registration or billed separately. Your brokerage will guide you through the process.

In Ontario, all real estate salespersons must operate under a licensed brokerage. You cannot practice independently as a new agent. Choosing the right brokerage is one of the most important decisions you will make early in your career.

Key factors to consider when selecting a brokerage:

Tip: Interview at least 3-5 brokerages before committing. Ask about lead generation, technology platforms, and what support is available specifically for new agents.

Congratulations — you are now a registered real estate salesperson in Ontario! Here is what your first year typically looks like:

• Complete articling courses: You must finish additional courses within your first two-year registration cycle to maintain your registration.
• Build your sphere of influence: Let everyone in your personal and professional network know you are now in real estate.
• Leverage your brokerage's resources: Take advantage of training, open house opportunities, and mentorship programs.
• Invest in marketing: Create a professional online presence, business cards, and social media profiles.
• Stay compliant: Follow all RECO regulations and TRESA requirements in every transaction.

Most new agents close their first transaction within 3-6 months. Be patient, stay persistent, and focus on building relationships.