consumer protection.  In my state, it requires more education and three years active experience to become a broker and be responsible for a client. Because even though agents say they have clients, they don't.  The client and responsibility belong to the broker.  

As has been said, to protect the consumer which is foremost the most important person in any transaction, and in our business.

Like Tammy Lankford indicates, for consumer protection and knowledge. I'm not concerned myself about ever being a broker!

Someone to guide and take responsibility for your actions.

It is the State Law in my state and probably yours. Just because you have a license doesn't mean you should be on your own.

It's the law here too. I'm learning all about it in my Boker Exam prep-classes.

Two words..supervision and accountability

It's the law...

In Texas it is the law.  Accountability.

In Illinois you can only get a brokers licence but you must either work under a managing sponsor broker or manage yourself . 

The world of real estate would be in shambles if no one had to answer to a responsible person. In my state you have to be an active agent 4 years before being able to become a broker.