12/21/2022 - California

Can You Get a Real Estate License with A Felony?

Written by Tessa Sims

For individuals looking for a fresh start in their career, real estate can be a great option. However, for those with a less-than-perfect background, including those with a misdemeanor or felony conviction, getting a real estate license can be challenging.

The rules for obtaining a real estate license with a criminal record will vary from state to state, but in general, it is possible to pursue a career as a real estate agent. In some cases, a criminal conviction may disqualify an individual from getting a license, but each case is unique, and the specific requirements will depend on the state and the nature of the conviction.

If you have a criminal record and are interested in becoming a real estate agent, it’s important to research the specific requirements in your state and consult with a qualified attorney who can provide guidance on your specific situation. With the right support and adherence to the requirements, you can pursue a career in real estate.

Disqualifications For Your Real Estate License

The qualifications for obtaining a real estate license with a felony conviction will vary depending on the state where you are applying. In some states, a felony conviction may disqualify an individual from getting a license, while in others, the specific requirements and restrictions may vary depending on the nature of the conviction and the length of time since it occurred.

It’s important to research the specific requirements in the state where you are applying for a real estate license, and to consult with a qualified attorney who can provide guidance on your specific situation. With the right support and adherence to the requirements, it may be possible to pursue a career in real estate even with a felony conviction.

For example, in the state of Utah, applicants for a real estate license must meet basic requirements:

  • Have a high school diploma or equivalent
  • Complete a qualifying questionnaire
  • Demonstrate truthfulness, integrity, honesty, and competency.

In the state of Arizona, applicants must also submit fingerprints for a background check, and a prior conviction of incarceration, parole, or community service may disqualify an individual from getting a license.

When considering an applicant with a criminal record, states may take into account factors such as:

  • The type of crime committed
  • The length of time since the conviction
  • Whether the crime is related to real estate, and the level of the conviction or charge

It’s important to research the specific requirements in the state where you are applying, and to consult with a qualified attorney who can provide guidance on your specific situation.

Becoming A Real Estate Agent with A Felony

When pursuing a real estate license, transparency is key. Attempting to hide a criminal record from the state licensing board will likely be unsuccessful, as most states conduct thorough background checks on applicants. It’s important to be honest and upfront about your background, and to consult with the state real estate commission before beginning your pre-licensing education.

Each state has its own specific requirements and restrictions when it comes to applicants with a criminal record, so it’s important to research the rules in the state where you are applying. In some cases, a criminal conviction may disqualify an individual from getting a license, while in others, the specific requirements and restrictions may vary depending on the nature of the conviction and the length of time since it occurred.

If you have a criminal record and are interested in becoming a real estate agent, it’s important to research the specific requirements in your state and consult with a qualified attorney who can provide guidance on your specific situation. With the right support and adherence to the requirements, you can pursue a career in real estate. It will be important to explain the following:

  • Why you would like to become a real estate agent 
  • Your exact criminal conviction and any circumstances surrounding it
  • How long it has been since your conviction and subsequent rehabilitation

When applying for a real estate license, honesty and transparency are essential. By being upfront about your background and criminal record, you can demonstrate to the state licensing board that you can be trusted and that you are committed to integrity in your professional and personal life.

While each state has its own specific requirements and restrictions for applicants with a criminal record, being honest and transparent on your license application can go a long way in showing that you are deserving of a chance in the real estate industry. Integrity, transparency, and full disclosure are all crucial in the day-to-day life of a real estate agent and starting with a commitment to honesty on your license application can set the tone for your future career.

What Is a Felony Review?

In some states, applicants with a felony conviction may be required to undergo a felony review before being granted a real estate license. This process typically involves a more thorough review of the applicant’s criminal history, including the nature of the conviction and the steps taken towards rehabilitation.

The purpose of the felony review is to determine whether the applicant poses a potential risk to clients or the public. The state licensing board will consider factors such as the type of crime committed, the length of time since the conviction, and the applicant’s overall character and reputation.

While the felony review process can be intimidating, it’s important to approach it with honesty and transparency. By providing a thorough and complete picture of your background and rehabilitation efforts, you can demonstrate to the state licensing board that you are committed to upholding the high ethical standards of the real estate industry.

What Is the Relationship of The Crime to The Practice of Real Estate?

When considering an applicant with a criminal record, state licensing boards may consider the relationship of the crime to the practice of real estate. In other words, they will consider whether the crime committed has any relevance or bearing on an individual’s ability to perform the duties of a real estate agent.

For example, if an applicant has a conviction for embezzlement, the state licensing board may view this as relevant to the practice of real estate, as embezzlement involves financial dishonesty and could potentially affect an individual’s ability to handle client funds. In contrast, a conviction for drunk driving may not be considered as directly relevant to the practice of real estate and may not necessarily impact an applicant’s ability to obtain a license.

Submitting Any Documents Relating to The Felony

When applying for a real estate license with a criminal record, it may be necessary to provide documents related to the felony conviction. These could include court records, probation reports, and other relevant documentation.

The specific documents required will vary depending on the state in which you are applying and the nature of the conviction. In general, however, it’s important to provide as much information as possible about the conviction and your rehabilitation efforts.

Providing complete and accurate documentation can help to demonstrate to the state licensing board that you are serious about pursuing a career in real estate and that you are committed to upholding the ethical standards of the industry.

What Were You Convicted Of?

The state licensing board will typically consider the severity and nature of the conviction. In general, more severe, or violent crimes will be viewed more negatively than less serious offenses.

For example, a conviction for a violent crime such as assault or battery may be viewed as more serious than a conviction for a non-violent offense such as theft or fraud. In addition, crimes that are directly related to the practice of real estate, such as embezzlement or money laundering, may be considered more seriously than crimes that are not directly related to the industry.

The severity and nature of the conviction can play a significant role in the state licensing board’s decision to grant or deny a real estate license. By providing evidence of your rehabilitation and personal growth since the completion of your sentence, you can help to demonstrate to the state licensing board that you are committed to upholding the ethical standards of the real estate industry.

What Have You Been Up to Since Your Felony Conviction?

The state licensing board will typically consider the applicant’s activities since the completion of the sentence. This can include factors such as payment of restitution, education, employment, participation in rehabilitation programs, and any other activities that suggest a change in character.

By providing evidence of your efforts towards rehabilitation and personal growth since the completion of your sentence, you can demonstrate to the state licensing board that you have taken steps to address the underlying causes of your criminal behavior and that you are committed to living a law-abiding and responsible life.

In general, the more evidence you can provide of your positive activities and personal growth since the completion of your sentence, the better your chances of being granted a real estate license. This can include documentation of your education, employment, and participation in rehabilitation programs, as well as letters of recommendation from employers, educators, and other individuals who can attest to your positive character.

In general, a felony review is an important part of the real estate license application process for individuals with a criminal record. It can help to provide the state licensing board with a comprehensive understanding of the applicant’s background and can help to demonstrate that the applicant is committed to upholding the ethical standards of the real estate industry.

Kickstarting Your Real Estate Agent Journey  

  • Agent Real Estate School offers several essential resources to aspiring Real Estate Agents, including our group study program, Real Estate Agent Bootcamp, and our fast-tracked school courses.  
  • Fast-Track Course: Participants in our Fast Track Course self-pace and study in their own time. They can complete all their real estate coursework online and in a matter of weeks. This package includes a live online 1-Day Prep six-hour review class led by a live instructor to prepare them for their state exam date. 
  • Bootcamp: Our boot camp course is designed for students who want to complete their real estate license education quickly. This in-person class will help you complete all your course work and final exams in 3 days with a live instructor. The instructor helps prepare students for the California Real Estate Exam by providing a comprehensive review of real estate principles, practice, law, key word terms, and concepts covered on the test. 
  • Group Study Program: Our group study courses are live online classes. Classes run on Tuesday and Thursday evenings and Saturday mornings; you only need to attend once a week so choose the time that works best for your schedule. 

Take one step closer to becoming a licensed Real Estate Agent by contacting Agent Real Estate Schools at (858) 329-0999 today.