1. Verify Basic Eligibility
You must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a high school diploma or GED
- Possess a valid Social Security number
- Be able to pass a criminal background check
2. Complete 75 Hours of Pre-License Education
You are required to complete 75 hours of state-approved education from an Illinois-licensed real estate school.
Required coursework
- 45-Hour Broker Pre-License Course
- 30-Hour Post-License (Applied Principles) Course
(This course must be completed before you can receive an active license.)
Courses may be taken online or in person, but they must be approved by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR).
3. Pass the Illinois Real Estate Broker Exam
After completing the 45-hour course:
- Register for the exam through the state’s testing vendor (PSI)
- The exam consists of:
- National portion
- Illinois state-specific portion
- A passing score is required on both sections
If you fail one section, you only need to retake the failed portion.
4. Complete Fingerprinting & Background Check
- Schedule electronic fingerprinting with a state-approved vendor
- Results are sent directly to IDFPR
- Certain criminal convictions may require additional review or documentation
5. Apply for Your Broker License
Submit your license application through the IDFPR online portal:
- Provide proof of education and exam passage
- Pay the required application and licensing fees
- Indicate whether your license will be active or inactive
Note: To practice real estate, your license must be active and sponsored by an Illinois managing broker.
6. Affiliate With a Sponsoring Managing Broker
Before conducting any transactions:
- Choose an Illinois-licensed managing broker
- Your managing broker activates your license in the state system
- You may now legally practice real estate in Illinois
7. Complete Post-Licensing Requirements (First Renewal Cycle)
Within your first license term, you must:
- Complete the 30-hour post-license course (if not already done)
- Renew your license before the expiration date
Failure to complete post-licensing education can result in license suspension.
Typical Timeline
- Education: 2–8 weeks (varies by pace)
- Exam scheduling & results: 1–2 weeks
- Application & activation: 1–3 weeks
Total time: approximately 1–3 months
Optional Next Steps
- Join a local REALTOR® association
- Obtain MLS access
- Consider errors & omissions (E&O) insurance
- Begin brokerage-specific training