After being licensed for 18 years and active in 4 states I ventured to get my license in the State of New York. It has been quite the task as I am currently a resident in the State of Virginia and New York has no reciprocity with Virginia. I do hold a Broker's license so the process was a bit easier, I think, but still archaic.
When no reciprocity is in place you need to prove education and experience which again was not a problem. What I find the most interesting and the thing that New York State actually has right is asking me to prove who I am.
The State of NY issued me my paper license but instructed me to come into the DMV to have my picture taken or to provide it via email. I had to bring with me several pieces of identification to prove who I am. I am not a resident of the State of NY so there is no driver's license with a picture in place.
They took my picture and then I had to show them my birth certificate, my social security card, my U.S. passport, and my Virginia issued driver's license. They use a point system and each item had a value. These values need to add up to 6 points. The State will then issue my picture real estate license which I understand will look similar to a driver's license.
I think this is an excellent procedure. As much as this was a bit of a hassle for me it was one I do think it should be uniform across the United States. The buying and selling of real property is one of the largest transactions most people make in their lives.
If my Costco card has my picture identification at least my real estate license should also have my picture identification
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Raleigh Cary Realty - Raleigh, NC
Realtor/Broker
Identification regulations are tightening up everywhere. Recently I had a document notarized and have to add my thumbpint to the document! That was a first, but it makes sense. A thumbprint doesn't lie.
As for real estate licenses with photos on them, I can see that in the future.
Jan 28, 2012 02:05 AM
CRE - Boston, MA
Sounds like something every state should emulate. It would be quite easy to steal someones identity by just going to a state with reciprocity and getting a real estate license.
Jan 28, 2012 02:06 AM
The Group, Inc - Steamboat Springs, CO
Steamboat Springs, CO e-Pro
I never thought about this topic, but it makes perfect sense. With so many ways for identity theft to creep in and ways to falsify credentials, this is an added step that will surely be widespread soon. I agree, NY is getting it right, and I have to say that I applaud them taking the extra precautions!
Jan 28, 2012 02:09 AM
RE/MAX UNITED - Cary, NC
Cary/Raleigh/Apex NC - The Team That Cares, RE/MAX United
That is a new concept, but one I hope they keep in place. You can never be too careful in these kinds of situations, especially when you are someone who is a respected realtor.
Jan 28, 2012 02:22 AM
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