New investor thinking of getting a license, a couple questions

[Matt James]

I am thinking getting a license to help me see the MLS and access to the property faster. My questions is: 1. if I am planning buy/sell property only for myself, do I need to be affiliated with a broker? what is the pros and cons? Don't know how much benefit I get from them and how much it costs me. 2. would I be able to access MLS once I passed the exam?

Thanks in advance!