What distinguishes an associate broker license from a broker license?

An associate broker license is distinguished from a broker license primarily by its involvement in brokerage management. An associate broker typically has completed the necessary education and licensing requirements to hold a broker license, but they are not in a management or supervisory position within a brokerage. They may work under a broker's supervision, which limits their authority when it comes to managing other agents or running the brokerage's operations.

In contrast, a broker license conveys the ability to operate and manage a real estate brokerage. This includes the responsibilities of overseeing transactions, managing other salespersons or associate brokers, and ensuring compliance with local laws and regulations. Therefore, the key difference lies in the authority and responsibility associated with brokerage management, with the associate broker being more limited in this regard.