The process to become a land agent typically includes a combination of on the job training, education, and licensing, though the specifics vary widely depending on the area you live in, and where you want to work. Some countries and local jurisdictions have very strict guidelines that govern how you go about obtaining this job, while others have little or no regulations. In Canada, you will need to train under a licensed agent for a year, go to school for two years, and then become licensed. The process is typically less rigid in the United States, though a four-year degree and a certification from the American Association Of Professional Landmen (AAPL) can be helpful. Some degrees can make it easier to become a land agent in the US, and many companies prefer to hire graduates from a juris doctor (JD) program.
Land agents are representatives of businesses or people who purchase the rights to various resources associated with land, including minerals and hydrocarbons such as gas and oil. They typically act as the point of contact between a land owner and a business that is interested in purchasing these rights, and also perform other various other functions that are primarily related to research. Land agents, or landmen, often perform title searches, due diligence work, and can even negotiate contracts.
If you want to become a land agent, your exact path will depend largely on where you live. Most of the U.S. states do not have any official licensing or certification requirements, but companies typically prefer to hire college graduates. A bachelor's degree in a related field is sometimes sufficient, though many oil companies recruit new land agents from recent law school graduates. It is sometimes possible to become a land agent without any formal, post-secondary education, though this usually requires some type of personal connection inside a company that hires landmen. You may also want to obtain a certification from the AAPL, which requires that you first work for a certified land agent.
The process to become a land agent is more concrete in areas such as Alberta, Canada. If you live there, you will need to begin by going to work for a professionally licensed land agent. Your personal trainer at the job does not need to be a landman, but it is required that one or more licensed land agents supervise your work. You will be able to obtain an interim license after working for a licensed landman for a year, after which you will need to enter into a two year educational program; the final step is to train for a further 12 month period, after which you will be qualified to apply for a permanent license. Other countries and local regions will have there own rules that should be fully understood before embarking on this career path.
