Key Takeaways
- Massachusetts has three main license types: salesperson, broker, and associate broker
- Attorneys licensed in Massachusetts are exempt from licensing for real estate activities
- Property owners acting on their own behalf do not need a license
- Non-resident licensees can practice through reciprocity agreements with some states
- Corporate entities must have a designated broker to conduct real estate activities
Last updated: January 2026
License Types & Exemptions
Massachusetts recognizes several license categories and provides specific exemptions from licensing requirements.
License Types
Salesperson
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Activities | List, sell, lease under broker supervision |
| Supervision | Must work under licensed broker |
| Independence | Cannot operate independently |
| Commission | Paid through broker only |
Broker
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Experience | 3 years as salesperson required |
| Activities | All salesperson activities plus supervision |
| Independence | Can operate own firm |
| Employ | Can employ salespersons |
Associate Broker
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Qualification | Licensed broker working under another broker |
| Why | Choose not to operate independently |
| Activities | Same as broker |
| Commission | Through supervising broker |
Exemptions from Licensing
Who Does NOT Need a License
| Exempt Party | Reason |
|---|---|
| Property owners | Acting on own property |
| Attorneys | Licensed MA attorneys |
| Executors/Administrators | Handling estate property |
| Court appointees | Trustees, receivers |
| Auctioneers | Licensed auctioneers at auction |
| Government employees | Acting officially |
Attorney Exemption
Massachusetts attorneys have a broad exemption:
| Activity | Exempt? |
|---|---|
| Draft contracts | Yes |
| Represent clients | Yes |
| Negotiate transactions | Yes |
| Receive commission | Yes (as legal fee) |
| Advertise as broker | NO - must clarify attorney role |
Important: While attorneys are exempt, they must still follow ethical rules and cannot misrepresent themselves as licensed brokers.
Owner Exemption
Property owners acting on their own behalf:
| Allowed | Not Allowed |
|---|---|
| Sell own property | Sell others' property |
| Lease own property | Collect commission |
| Negotiate own deals | Act as agent for others |
| Advertise own property | Represent buyers/sellers |
Non-Resident Licensing
Reciprocity
| State Type | Process |
|---|---|
| Reciprocal states | Simplified licensing |
| Non-reciprocal | Full exam required |
| Cooperation | Referrals with local broker |
Requirements for Non-Residents
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Active license | In home state |
| Good standing | No disciplinary issues |
| Consent | To MA jurisdiction |
| Broker affiliation | With MA broker |
Corporate Licensing
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Designated broker | Required for corporation |
| Liability | Corporation and broker |
| Officers | Need not be licensed |
| Employees | Salespeople must be licensed |
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Test Your Knowledge
Are Massachusetts attorneys exempt from real estate licensing requirements?
A
B
C
D
Test Your Knowledge
What is required for a salesperson to become a broker in Massachusetts?
A
B
C
D