Arizona Business Broker & M&A Advisor License Requirements
Becoming a licensed business broker or M&A advisor in Arizona requires meeting specific education, exam, and experience standards. This guide covers every requirement, fee, and regulatory pathway for Arizona as of 2025–2026.
License Type Required in Arizona Real estate broker license required. Arizona business brokers operate under the Real Estate Broker License, regulated by the Arizona Department of Real Estate (ADRE).
Education Requirements
Pre-license (salesperson): 90 hours of approved coursework
Experience Required 3 years as licensed salesperson/broker.
Exam & Licensing Fees
Exam: Pearson VUE — national + Arizona state
Application fee: $370 broker application
License fee: $150
Exam note: Separate salesperson then broker exam pathway required
Continuing Education 24 hours per 2 years required to maintain active Arizona broker license. Include mandatory ethics and law topics.
M&A Advisor Requirements in Arizona Arizona is a fast-growing business transaction market. M&A advisors working on deals over $10M typically affiliate with a FINRA-registered broker-dealer. Arizona's securities laws (A.R.S. Title 44) may apply to deal structuring involving equity components. The SEC M&A Broker exemption applies to qualifying private company transfers.
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 Arizona 1. Complete 90 hrs pre-license coursework 2. Pass the Pearson VUE — national + Arizona state 3. Obtain your Arizona salesperson/associate license 4. Work under a licensed broker for 3 years as licensed salesperson/broker 5. Complete 90 hrs additional pre-broker coursework and pass the broker exam 6. Pursue CBI certification via IBBA to establish market credibility