Maine Business Broker License — Requirements & M&A Advisor Guide 2025
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Maine Business Broker & M&A Advisor License Requirements
Becoming a licensed business broker or M&A advisor in Maine requires meeting specific education, exam, and experience standards. This guide covers every requirement, fee, and regulatory pathway for Maine as of 2025–2026.
License Type Required in Maine Real estate broker license required. Maine business brokers operate under the Real Estate Broker License, regulated by the Maine Real Estate Commission.
Education Requirements
Pre-license (salesperson): 55 hours of approved coursework
Broker upgrade: 60 hrs broker pre-license course
Experience Required 3 years as licensed salesperson/broker.
Exam & Licensing Fees
Exam: PSI national + Maine state exam
Application fee: $100
License fee: $110
Exam note: CE includes mandatory agency law and ethics hours
Continuing Education 21 hours per 2 years required to maintain active Maine broker license. Include mandatory ethics and law topics.
M&A Advisor Requirements in Maine Maine's economy includes tourism, fishing, manufacturing, and forestry. Business brokerage operates under the real estate broker license. Maine Office of Securities oversees securities-related M&A activity. The SEC M&A Broker exemption applies for qualifying private company sales.
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 Maine 1. Complete 55 hrs pre-license coursework 2. Pass the PSI national + Maine state exam 3. Obtain your Maine salesperson/associate license 4. Work under a licensed broker for 3 years as licensed salesperson/broker 5. Complete 60 hrs broker pre-license course and pass the broker exam 6. Pursue CBI certification via IBBA to establish market credibility