Georgia Business Broker & M&A Advisor License Requirements
Becoming a licensed business broker or M&A advisor in Georgia requires meeting specific education, exam, and experience standards. This guide covers every requirement, fee, and regulatory pathway for Georgia as of 2025–2026.
License Type Required in Georgia Real estate broker license required. Georgia business brokers operate under the Real Estate Broker License, regulated by the Georgia Real Estate Commission (GREC).
Education Requirements
Pre-license (salesperson): 75 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 + Georgia state exam
Application fee: $170
License fee: $100
Exam note: Broker exam separate from salesperson, pass mark 75%
Continuing Education 36 hours per 4 years required to maintain active Georgia broker license. Include mandatory ethics and law topics.
M&A Advisor Requirements in Georgia Georgia's Atlanta-based economy is a major hub for M&A activity in the Southeast. Business brokers use the GREC license as standard. Mid-market M&A advisors in Georgia commonly hold FINRA Series 79 registration. Georgia Secretary of State's Securities Division regulates securities-related transactions. The SEC M&A Broker exemption covers most private business transfer transactions.
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 Georgia 1. Complete 75 hrs pre-license coursework 2. Pass the PSI national + Georgia state exam 3. Obtain your Georgia 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