Alabama Real Estate Commission
Alabama Real Estate Commission — licensing, complaints, statute, and TC oversight in Alabama.
Who regulates real estate in Alabama?
ARECThe Alabama Real Estate Commission (AREC) licenses and disciplines real estate brokers and salespersons under Title 34, Chapter 27 of the Code of Alabama. AREC also administers the state's Real Estate Recovery Fund.
About the AREC
Full name
Alabama Real Estate Commission
Governing statute
Code of Alabama, Title 34, Chapter 27 (Real Estate Brokers)
Address
1201 Carmichael Way, Montgomery, AL 36106
Phone
(334) 242-5544
Board composition
Nine commissioners appointed by the Governor, including active brokers, a salesperson, consumer representatives, and at least one minority member, in proportions set by Alabama statute.
Alabama Real Estate License Requirements
Salesperson (Temporary then Original)
Exam- Pre-license hours: 60
- New licensees first hold a temporary license; a 30-hour post-license course must be completed in the first year to convert to an original salesperson license.
Broker
Exam- Pre-license hours: 60
- Experience: Active salesperson experience and additional broker-track coursework as required by AREC.
Continuing education: 15 hours per renewal cycle.
Filing Complaints
AREC accepts written complaints from consumers and other licensees. Investigators review each complaint, and the commission may convene a formal hearing. Sanctions range from a citation through license revocation, and the commission may also order restitution from its Real Estate Recovery Fund where appropriate.
Available sanctions:
Transaction Coordinators in Alabama
Alabama does not separately license transaction coordinators. Anyone performing brokerage activity must hold an AREC license. Administrative support performed under a licensed broker's supervision is generally permitted without a license.
New to the role? Start with the transaction coordinator guide for a 50-state overview of TC scope and licensing rules.
Key facts about the AREC
- 1AREC enforces Alabama's real estate license law (Title 34, Chapter 27).
- 2Nine-member commission appointed by the Governor.
- 3Pre-license education: 60 hours for salesperson candidates, plus a 30-hour post-license course in year one.
- 4Continuing education: 15 hours every two-year renewal cycle.
- 5AREC operates a Real Estate Recovery Fund that can compensate consumers harmed by licensee misconduct.
Official Alabama resources
Alabama Real Estate Commission FAQ
Who regulates real estate agents in Alabama?
The Alabama Real Estate Commission (AREC) licenses and disciplines real estate brokers and salespersons under Title 34, Chapter 27 of the Code of Alabama.
How many hours of pre-license education does Alabama require?
Alabama requires 60 hours of pre-license education for salesperson candidates, followed by a 30-hour post-license course completed during the first year on a temporary license.
What is the Alabama Real Estate Recovery Fund?
The Real Estate Recovery Fund is a consumer-protection fund administered by AREC. Consumers who win a judgment against a licensee but cannot collect from the licensee may petition the fund for restitution, subject to statutory caps.
Last updated: May 22, 2026