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Connecticut Business Broker License — Requirements & M&A Advisor Guide 2025

Connecticut Business Broker & M&A Advisor License Requirements

Becoming a licensed business broker or M&A advisor in Connecticut requires meeting specific education, exam, and experience standards. This guide covers every requirement, fee, and regulatory pathway for Connecticut as of 2025–2026.

License Type Required in Connecticut
Real estate broker license required. Connecticut business brokers operate under the Real Estate Broker License, regulated by the Connecticut Real Estate Commission.

Education Requirements
  • Pre-license (salesperson): 60 hours of approved coursework
  • Broker upgrade: 60 hrs additional broker coursework

Experience Required
2 years as licensed salesperson/broker.

Exam & Licensing Fees
  • Exam: PSI national + Connecticut state exam
  • Application fee: $230
  • License fee: $180
  • Exam note: Must complete 60 hrs salesperson course before broker pathway

Continuing Education
12 hours per 2 years required to maintain active Connecticut broker license. Include mandatory ethics and law topics.

M&A Advisor Requirements in Connecticut
Connecticut's proximity to New York and strong financial services sector make it an important M&A advisory market. Mid-market M&A advisors typically hold FINRA Series 79 registration. Connecticut's Department of Banking oversees securities activity. The SEC M&A Broker No-Action letter (2014) and 2023 Exchange Act amendment provide guidance for qualifying 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 Connecticut
1. Complete 60 hrs pre-license coursework
2. Pass the PSI national + Connecticut state exam
3. Obtain your Connecticut salesperson/associate license
4. Work under a licensed broker for 2 years as licensed salesperson/broker
5. Complete 60 hrs additional broker coursework and pass the broker exam
6. Pursue CBI certification via IBBA to establish market credibility