Louisiana Business Broker & M&A Advisor License Requirements
Becoming a licensed business broker or M&A advisor in Louisiana requires meeting specific education, exam, and experience standards. This guide covers every requirement, fee, and regulatory pathway for Louisiana as of 2025–2026.
License Type Required in Louisiana Real estate broker license required. Louisiana business brokers operate under the Real Estate Broker License, regulated by the Louisiana Real Estate Commission (LREC).
Education Requirements
Pre-license (salesperson): 90 hours of approved coursework
Experience Required 3 years as licensed salesperson/broker.
Exam & Licensing Fees
Exam: PSI national + Louisiana state exam
Application fee: $90–$150
License fee: $125
Exam note: One of the higher hour requirements in the South
Continuing Education 12 hours per 2 years required to maintain active Louisiana broker license. Include mandatory ethics and law topics.
M&A Advisor Requirements in Louisiana Louisiana's energy, maritime, and healthcare sectors drive M&A activity. The real estate broker license is standard for business brokerage. Louisiana Office of Financial Institutions and Securities Division handle financial licensing. M&A advisors working on securities transactions should evaluate FINRA registration.
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 Louisiana 1. Complete 90 hrs pre-license coursework 2. Pass the PSI national + Louisiana state exam 3. Obtain your Louisiana salesperson/associate license 4. Work under a licensed broker for 3 years as licensed salesperson/broker 5. Complete 150 hrs broker pre-license (total, including prior salesperson hours) and pass the broker exam 6. Pursue CBI certification via IBBA to establish market credibility