Washington DC Business Broker License — Requirements & M&A Advisor Guide 2025
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Washington DC Business Broker & M&A Advisor License Requirements
Becoming a licensed business broker or M&A advisor in Washington DC requires meeting specific education, exam, and experience standards. This guide covers every requirement, fee, and regulatory pathway for Washington DC as of 2025–2026.
License Type Required in Washington DC Real estate broker license required. Washington DC business brokers operate under the Real Estate Broker License, regulated by the DC Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA).
Education Requirements
Pre-license (salesperson): 60 hours of approved coursework
Experience Required 3 years as licensed salesperson/broker.
Exam & Licensing Fees
Exam: PSI national + DC jurisdiction exam
Application fee: $170
License fee: $180
Exam note: DC follows a similar structure to Maryland and Virginia
Continuing Education 15 hours per 2 years required to maintain active Washington DC broker license. Include mandatory ethics and law topics.
M&A Advisor Requirements in Washington DC Washington DC has the highest concentration of government contractor M&A in the US. The DC real estate broker license covers business brokerage. DC Department of Insurance, Securities and Banking (DISB) oversees securities. Mid-market M&A advisors in DC — particularly in government contracting, lobbying, and nonprofit sectors — almost universally hold FINRA Series 79 and affiliate with registered broker-dealers.
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 Washington DC 1. Complete 60 hrs pre-license coursework 2. Pass the PSI national + DC jurisdiction exam 3. Obtain your Washington DC salesperson/associate license 4. Work under a licensed broker for 3 years as licensed salesperson/broker 5. Complete 135 hrs broker pre-license coursework and pass the broker exam 6. Pursue CBI certification via IBBA to establish market credibility