New Jersey Business Broker License — Requirements & M&A Advisor Guide 2025
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New Jersey Business Broker & M&A Advisor License Requirements
Becoming a licensed business broker or M&A advisor in New Jersey requires meeting specific education, exam, and experience standards. This guide covers every requirement, fee, and regulatory pathway for New Jersey as of 2025–2026.
License Type Required in New Jersey Real estate broker license required. New Jersey business brokers operate under the Real Estate Broker License, regulated by the New Jersey Real Estate Commission (NJREC).
Education Requirements
Pre-license (salesperson): 75 hours of approved coursework
Experience Required 3 years as licensed salesperson/broker.
Exam & Licensing Fees
Exam: PSI national + New Jersey state exam
Application fee: $160
License fee: $200
Exam note: 150 hrs broker course is among the highest in the US
Continuing Education 12 hours per 2 years required to maintain active New Jersey broker license. Include mandatory ethics and law topics.
M&A Advisor Requirements in New Jersey New Jersey's pharmaceutical, finance, and logistics sectors drive significant M&A activity. Business brokerage uses the NJ real estate broker license. New Jersey Bureau of Securities oversees securities laws. Mid-market M&A advisors in NJ commonly hold FINRA Series 79 and affiliate with registered broker-dealers. Proximity to NYC M&A ecosystem is a major advantage.
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 New Jersey 1. Complete 75 hrs pre-license coursework 2. Pass the PSI national + New Jersey state exam 3. Obtain your New Jersey salesperson/associate license 4. Work under a licensed broker for 3 years as licensed salesperson/broker 5. Complete 150 hrs broker pre-license coursework and pass the broker exam 6. Pursue CBI certification via IBBA to establish market credibility