Realtor vs Real Estate Agent: What Is the Difference?
A real estate agent is licensed by a state to represent buyers and sellers in property transactions, always working under a supervising broker. A Realtor is a licensed professional, whether an agent, broker, appraiser, or property manager, who belongs to the National Association of Realtors and follows its Code of Ethics. The realtor vs real estate agent distinction comes down to membership, not license level.
Realtor vs Real Estate Agent at a glance
| Aspect | Realtor | Real Estate Agent |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | A member of the National Association of Realtors | A state-licensed professional who represents buyers and sellers |
| License held | An agent, broker, appraiser, or property manager license | A state salesperson or broker license |
| How it is obtained | Voluntary membership through a local Realtor association | Passing a state exam and licensing under a supervising broker |
| Ethics standard | The NAR Code of Ethics, enforced by Realtor associations | State license law and agency duties |
| The word itself | A registered trademark of NAR, not a license level | A generic occupational title defined by state law |
| Who can use the title | Only NAR members in good standing | Anyone holding an active state license |
How they differ in practice
Licensing and membership operate on separate tracks. Every Realtor holds some form of real estate license, but not every licensee is a Realtor. A state license grants the legal authority to practice, and an agent earns it by passing an exam and affiliating with a supervising broker. Membership in the National Association of Realtors is voluntary and sits on top of that license. A professional joins through a local Realtor association, pays dues, and agrees to a Code of Ethics that adds duties to clients, the public, and other members beyond what state law requires.
The word Realtor is a registered trademark of the National Association of Realtors, so only members in good standing may use it. In everyday speech the two titles get swapped freely, which is why the real estate agent vs realtor question comes up so often. Membership is open at every license level, and the license tiers themselves are a separate topic, covered in the comparison of broker vs real estate agent.
Full definitions
Read the complete dictionary entry for Realtor or Real Estate Agent.
Frequently asked questions
Is every real estate agent a Realtor?
No. Membership in the National Association of Realtors is voluntary, and many licensed agents never join. An agent becomes a Realtor only by joining a local Realtor association, paying dues, and agreeing to follow the NAR Code of Ethics.
Is Realtor a type of real estate license?
No. Realtor is a trademarked membership designation, not a license. States issue real estate licenses, such as salesperson and broker licenses, and the Realtor title layers on top of whichever license a member already holds.
Can a broker be a Realtor?
Yes. Brokers, appraisers, and property managers can all join the National Association of Realtors, along with sales agents. Realtor describes membership and ethics obligations, not license level, so licensed professionals at any tier can hold the title.