Good news, ex-felons looking to pursue a new career path may find real estate an appealing option. It requires minimal qualifications and could provide high-income potential; however, getting your license may not always be straightforward.
In Arizona, applicants must obtain a standard fingerprint clearance card before applying for their license. This includes an extensive background check that reviews criminal records including DUI convictions.
Additionally, you must submit a criminal history disclosure form along with any supporting documentation to demonstrate your trustworthiness as an agent. Acknowledging past mistakes and being honest about them can increase the likelihood of approval for your application.
What will it Take to Become a Real Estate Agent in Arizona?
Real estate markets can be exciting, and it may appear that becoming a realtor is an easy job. Homes sell quickly after being listed and mortgage rates are favorable, tempting more people to purchase their first home or help current homeowners move into their dream house. But being a real estate agent is more complex than that – often taking care of multiple clients simultaneously!
Arizona requires a 90-hour pre-licensing course from a school approved by the ADRE. Once you complete this education, you must pass an exam proctored by Pearson VUE – a global testing company – in order to receive your real estate license. If you fail the exam, you may reschedule and try again within 24 hours after your first attempt.
Your exam preparation plan will include electronic books, flashcards, audio lessons, and more to help you prepare for your licensing exam and kick-start your real estate career on the right foot!
Once your pre-licensing classes are completed, the Arizona Department of Public Safety requires that you obtain a fingerprint clearance card. You can apply for this card either online or through your pre-licensing real estate school; it typically takes 10-30 days to process the card so it’s best to start as soon as possible after receiving notification that processing has begun.
What Disqualifies You from Being a Real Estate Agent in Arizona?
To become a licensed real estate agent in Arizona, applicants must fill out the Disciplinary Actions Disclosure Form and answer criminal history questions. These forms help the ADRE assess your character; if you have a criminal record, your application may be denied.
Additionally, if you have been convicted of a crime, the Commission will review your convictions to determine if they pertain to your duties as a real estate agent. You must provide any relevant documentation such as court case dispositions or arrest reports.
Passing the Real Estate Exam in Arizona
To ensure you are prepared for your Arizona real estate license exam, consider using a test prep service like PrepAgent. These services provide tools like e-books, flashcards, and more that will ensure success on the first attempt.
Real estate schools offer exam prep courses as a standalone product or as part of their pre-licensing programs. While these courses will help prepare you for your exam, pairing them with an established exam preparation service such as PrepAgent will guarantee that you pass on your first attempt!
How to Get a Real Estate License with a Misdemeanor in Arizona
You may be asked to disclose any criminal convictions you’ve had. It’s essential that you are honest with the department about any offenses and how they have affected your life, including providing a detailed account of what occurred and why.
Arizona has special requirements for those with a history of a misdemeanor or felony convictions to qualify for a real estate license. These requirements include not being convicted of another felony or misdemeanor in the past 10 years and fulfilling any incarceration or probation periods.
However, you must also be truthful about any civil judgments against you. Additionally, make sure to explain any prior professional licenses which have been revoked or suspended.
Depending on the severity of your criminal record, you could potentially be denied a real estate license altogether. When reviewing each case individually, the ADRE takes into account the level of offense committed, any mitigating factors mentioned by prosecutors during sentencing hearings, and whether or not this offense had anything to do with your practice as an agent.
In some instances, the Department of Real Estate may grant relief to individuals with felonies or multiple misdemeanors on their record. To be eligible, these individuals must demonstrate that they haven’t been in any trouble since release from prison and that their crimes did not pose a risk to public safety.
Arizona Real Estate License Background Check
Real estate license background checks are an integral part of the licensing process in many states, as they can reveal crimes that could prevent you from practicing as a real estate agent. Arizona is no exception to this rule.
Once you’ve finished taking all necessary coursework, it’s time to apply for your real estate license. You must fill out an application, pay a fee and submit other forms as required by ADRE (Autonomous District Registry of Examiners). Furthermore, remember to disclose any disciplinary actions or criminal convictions which could impact your ability to practice real estate.
Depending on the complexity of your case, the Arizona real estate licensing process can take anywhere from one week to two months to complete. You must obtain your fingerprint clearance card, pass the licensing exam, and submit various other forms.
Obtaining Your Fingerprint Clearance
The initial step to becoming a real estate salesperson in Arizona requires you to obtain a fingerprint clearance card from the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS). This can be done in person or online, though results may take up to 8 weeks to come back.
Once you receive your fingerprint clearance, the next step is to apply for your Arizona real estate license. You must take a state-approved course and pass the exam, as well as disclose any prior judgments or disciplinary actions on your criminal record.
