Alabama License Law and the Real Estate Commission
Alabama real estate practice is governed by Title 34, Chapter 27 of the Code of Alabama and the rules of the Alabama Real Estate Commission (AREC). This chapter reviews the Commission's authority, Alabama's temporary-to-permanent license structure, and broker supervision.
The Alabama Real Estate Commission
The Alabama Real Estate Commission (AREC) administers and enforces the real estate license law under Title 34, Chapter 27. It licenses salespersons and brokers, approves education, investigates complaints, and imposes discipline. A person who lists, sells, leases, or manages real estate for others for compensation must be licensed unless a statutory exemption applies.
Temporary and Permanent Salesperson Licenses
Alabama first issues a 'temporary' (original) salesperson license. To obtain a permanent license, the licensee must complete the required post-license course within the temporary license period. If the post-license course is not completed in time, the temporary license lapses and the person cannot practice until the requirement is met.
The Qualifying Broker
An Alabama salesperson must place their license with a qualifying broker and act under that broker's supervision. The qualifying broker is responsible for the salesperson's licensed activity, advertising, and trust funds, and must ensure the brokerage complies with Alabama license law.