Delaware Business Broker & M&A Advisor License Requirements
Becoming a licensed business broker or M&A advisor in Delaware requires meeting specific education, exam, and experience standards. This guide covers every requirement, fee, and regulatory pathway for Delaware as of 2025–2026.
License Type Required in Delaware Real estate broker license required. Delaware business brokers operate under the Real Estate Broker License, regulated by the Delaware Real Estate Commission.
Education Requirements
Pre-license (salesperson): 99 hours of approved coursework
Experience Required 3 years as licensed salesperson/broker.
Exam & Licensing Fees
Exam: PSI national + Delaware state exam
Application fee: $107
License fee: $107
Exam note: Both national and state portions required at Broker level
Continuing Education 21 hours per 2 years required to maintain active Delaware broker license. Include mandatory ethics and law topics.
M&A Advisor Requirements in Delaware Delaware is the incorporation capital of the US — most major M&A transactions involve Delaware-incorporated entities regardless of where the business operates. Delaware Division of Securities oversees securities laws. M&A advisors working on larger transactions (typically above $10M) should maintain FINRA Series 79 affiliation.
Industry Certifications (Optional but Career-Critical)
CBI (Certified Business Intermediary) — International Business Brokers Association (IBBA)
M&AMI (M&A Master Intermediary) — IBBA, for deals $5M+
CMAP (Certified M&A Professional) — AM&AA
Series 79 (Investment Banking Representative) — FINRA, for larger M&A advisory
Series 82 (Private Securities Offerings Representative) — FINRA
How to Get Started as a Business Broker in Delaware 1. Complete 99 hrs pre-license coursework 2. Pass the PSI national + Delaware state exam 3. Obtain your Delaware salesperson/associate license 4. Work under a licensed broker for 3 years as licensed salesperson/broker 5. Complete 99 hrs additional broker coursework and pass the broker exam 6. Pursue CBI certification via IBBA to establish market credibility