How to Become a Real Estate Agent in New South Wales
To become a real estate agent in New South Wales, you must complete a government-accredited real estate course through a Registered Training Organisation (RTO), then apply to NSW Fair Trading for your Certificate of Registration or licence.
Whether you’re looking for a fresh career start, transitioning from another profession, or returning to the workforce, a career in real estate can offer you flexibility, financial independence, and the chance to work in a dynamic and people-focused industry.
In New South Wales, the real estate sector is thriving — and entry into the profession is more structured and accessible than ever before.
This guide outlines the complete process of becoming a real estate agent in NSW, from training and qualification pathways to licensing, compliance, and long-term career opportunities.
Why Real Estate?
Real estate is about more than just property transactions. It’s about guiding people through major life changes, building trust, and helping clients make confident decisions — whether they’re buying a first home, renting an investment, or selling their family property.
Some of the top reasons people choose to enter the real estate industry include:
- Flexibility: Many roles allow you to structure your own day and manage your schedule.
- Unlimited earnings: High performers can earn significant commissions.
- Career progression: Move from assistant roles to fully licensed agent, or even agency principal.
- Work locally: Build a business and reputation in your own community.
- No degree required: With the right training, you can launch your career without a university qualification.
Step 1: Understand the Licensing Framework
In New South Wales, real estate professionals must hold either a Certificate of Registration or Licence, regulated by NSW Fair Trading. The licensing pathway is staged to support skill development and workplace experience.
There are two main levels:
Each level comes with specific training, experience, and ongoing professional development requirements.
Step 2: Meet the Eligibility Requirements
Before applying for a certificate or licence, you must meet certain legal and training criteria:
- You must be at least 16 years old to begin training and 18 years old to apply for registration
- You must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or have valid working rights
- You must pass a criminal history check
- You must complete the required training through an RTO, such as Validum Institute
These requirements help maintain high standards of professionalism and compliance across the NSW property sector.
Step 3: Choose Your Qualification Path
There are two main course pathways to enter and grow your career in NSW real estate:
Option 1: Assistant Agent Certificate Course
This is your entry point into the industry. It allows you to work in property sales or management under the supervision of a licensed agent.
- Units of competency: 5
- Delivery method: 100% online and self-paced
- Course duration: Up to 6 months, though many complete it sooner
- Outcome: Statement of Attainment to support your application for an Assistant Agent Certificate
Upon completing this course and registering with NSW Fair Trading, you can begin working in sales, leasing, or property management.
Option 2: Class 2 Real Estate Agent Licence Course
This qualification allows you to work independently as a real estate agent, manage property transactions, and engage with clients directly.
There are two specialisation streams:
Each includes:
- Units of competency: 18 (including the 5 completed in the Assistant Agent course)
- Delivery: Online, with trainer support and access to practical resources
- Duration: Up to 12 months (flexible to fit your schedule)
- Outcome: Statement of Attainment to apply for your Class 2 Licence
You must have worked as an Assistant Agent for at least 12 months and complete a Fair Trading-approved logbook of work experience.
Step 4: Study Online and at Your Own Pace
One of the biggest advantages of training with Validum Institute is flexibility. All NSW real estate courses are delivered online, allowing you to study around work, family, or other commitments.
Key benefits of online study with Validum:
- Self-paced learning — progress as quickly or slowly as needed
- Flexible study hours — perfect for night owls, early risers, or weekend warriors
- Accessible anywhere — ideal for students across metro and regional NSW
- Ongoing support — trainers and mentors available throughout your course
- All-inclusive — your course fee includes all learning materials, assessments, and certification
Online delivery gives you the power to shape your own success — without sacrificing quality or support.
Step 5: Apply to NSW Fair Trading
Once your training is complete, it’s time to apply for your certificate or licence through NSW Fair Trading.
Assistant Agent Certificate Application
- Submit your Statement of Attainment
- Provide identification and consent for a background check
- Pay the application fee
- Await processing (typically a few weeks)
Once approved, you’re officially registered as an Assistant Agent and can begin working in the industry.
Class 2 Licence Application
- Must hold your Assistant Agent Certificate for at least 12 months
- Submit your completed Certificate IV qualification
- Provide your logbook of practical experience
- Complete the full Fair Trading application form and pay associated fees
Approval grants you full Class 2 licensing to act as a real estate agent without supervision.
Step 6: Launch Your Career
With your certificate or licence in hand, you’re ready to start working in the field. Real estate is a fast-paced and rewarding environment, and Validum Institute graduates are equipped with both the knowledge and confidence to succeed.
Career opportunities include:
- Residential property sales
- Property management
- Leasing and tenant services
- Commercial real estate
- Buyer advocacy
- Business development roles
- Agency support and administration
Your career path is yours to shape — and with continued learning, you can move into senior or ownership roles over time.
Step 7: Maintain and Upgrade Your Licence
Real estate is a regulated industry, and you’ll need to meet ongoing compliance requirements to keep your licence current.
From 2025 onward, all agents must complete Continuing Professional Development (CPD) annually, which varies depending on your licence level.
You can also choose to:
- Upgrade to a Class 1 Licence — to become a licensee-in-charge or agency principal
- Complete specialist qualifications — in auctions, commercial property, or business broking
- Attend industry events — to grow your network and keep up with property trends
At Validum, we’re committed to supporting your growth through every stage of your career.
Become a Real Estate Agent in New South Wales – Start with Validum Institute
If you’re ready to begin your journey, explore NSW real estate courses at Validum Institute — flexible, government-accredited, and backed by expert support every step of the way. Taking that first step into the industry starts with choosing the right course and a trusted training provider to give you the knowledge and confidence to succeed.
Start your career the right way with Validum Institute’s real estate courses — designed to fit your lifestyle, align with your goals, and help you become a licensed real estate professional in one of Australia’s most exciting property markets.
