How to get your real estate license in ohio: complete guide

Starting a real estate career in Ohio begins with obtaining your real estate license. While the process is straightforward, it demands commitment, time, and careful financial planning. 

Here’s a detailed guide on how to become a real estate agent in Ohio, outlining the steps. You will also find the Ohio real estate licensing requirements, and costs, all in the same place, to help you succeed.

What do you need to become a real estate agent in Ohio?

To qualify for an Ohio real estate salesperson license, you must meet the following requirements:

• Age and Residency: Be at least 18 years old and a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.
• Education: Hold a high school diploma or equivalent (such as a GED).
• Character and Legal Compliance:
  • Be free of convictions for felonies or crimes involving moral turpitude.
  • Have no violations of real estate-related civil rights laws in the past two years as determined by a court.
  • Have no violations of regulations set by the Ohio Division of Real Estate.

Step 1: Complete the pre-licensing education requirements

The first step in getting your license is completing 120 hours of state-approved coursework. Enroll in an accredited school or program to fulfill the education requirements.

Course breakdown:

1. Ohio Real Estate Principles and Practices (40 hours): Learn foundational topics like real estate contracts, agency relationships, and ethical practices.
2. Ohio Real Estate Law (40 hours): Understand Ohio-specific laws, including civil rights, fair housing regulations, and real estate-related legal issues.
3. Real Estate Appraisal (20 hours): Gain knowledge of property valuation techniques to assess market values accurately.
4. Real Estate Finance (20 hours): Study the basics of mortgages, lending processes, and financial analysis.

If you’ve completed some or all of these courses previously, submit your official transcripts or course completion certificates to the Ohio Division of Real Estate and Professional Licensing (REPL) for a review.

Step 2: Find a sponsoring real estate brokerage

Before taking the Ohio real estate licensing exam, you must secure a sponsoring real estate brokerage. Your brokerage sponsor will activate your license and help you transition into the industry.

How to choose the right brokerage:

1. Specialization: Find a brokerage that aligns with your interests—luxury properties, first-time homebuyers, commercial real estate, etc.
2. Support and training: Look for firms offering mentorship programs, ongoing training, and administrative support.
3. Commission splits: Compare commission structures, such as 50/50 or 70/30, to ensure they fit your goals.
4. Technology and tools: Choose brokerages that offer modern tools like CRM software, marketing platforms, and data analytics to help you succeed.

Step 3: Submit your Ohio real estate license application

After completing your coursework and finding a brokerage sponsor, submit your Ohio real estate license application to the Ohio Division of Real Estate and Professional Licensing. Include the following:

• Proof of education: Submit official transcripts or course completion certificates showing you completed the required 120 hours.
• Application fee: Pay the $81 non-refundable application fee.
• Sponsorship verification: Include confirmation from your sponsoring brokerage.

Once REPL processes your application, they’ll forward your information to PSI, the state’s testing vendor. You’ll receive a Candidate Information Bulletin with details on how to schedule your licensing exam.

Step 4: Complete the required background check

Ohio requires a fingerprint-based background check to ensure all applicants meet professional standards. Schedule your fingerprinting appointment through WebCheck, a criminal record check provider.

What you need for your background check:

• A valid, government-issued photo ID.
• Instructions to send results directly to REPL using the following codes:
  • BCI Reason Code: 4735.143
  • FBI Reason Code: 4735.143

Timeline:

Complete the background check within 10 business days of submitting your license application. Fees typically range between $50 and $70.

Step 5: Schedule and pass the licensing exam

Once approved, you can schedule your exam through PSI, Ohio’s testing vendor. The test can be taken:

• In-Person at a PSI testing center (locations include Akron, Columbus, Cleveland, and others).
• Online with remote proctoring.

Ohio real estate exam details:

• Format:
  • National portion: 80 questions on real estate principles and practices.
  • State portion: 40 questions on Ohio laws and regulations.
• Passing score: 70% or higher on both sections.
• Time limit: 3 hours.
• Cost: $63.

Use the Candidate Information Bulletin to review the content outline, test-day procedures, and sample questions.

What’s the job outlook for real estate agents?

The job outlook for real estate agents is positive. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for real estate agents is projected to grow by 4% from 2020 to 2030.

Key factors affecting demand:

• Geographic location and economic trends impact housing demand.
• Urban areas may experience higher demand for residential real estate during certain economic conditions.
• Suburban and rural housing markets may grow at other times.

By staying adaptable and informed about market conditions, real estate agents can take advantage of changes and position themselves for success.

How do you become a real estate broker in Ohio?

Licensed salespeople looking to advance can pursue a broker’s license by:

• Gaining two years of experience as a licensed salesperson.
• Completing advanced coursework in real estate law, finance, and brokerage management.
• Passing the Ohio Broker exam.
• Submitting a broker license application to the Ohio Division of Real Estate.

Ohio reciprocity for out-of-state agents

Are you a licensed real estate agent in another state? If your state has agreements with Ohio, you might find Ohio reciprocity real estate license opportunities easier and faster. Reciprocity agreements help make the licensing process more accessible for out-of-state agents. They recognize the qualifications and experience you already have.

Ohio’s simplified licensing process can save you time by reducing requirements like retaking specific courses or exams. However, reciprocity rules vary by state, so it’s important to understand Ohio’s specific policies. To make the process easier, contact the Ohio Division of Real Estate for accurate details.

Verifying licenses with Ohio’s real estate license search tool

Once you’ve obtained your real estate license, your credentials will be accessible in Ohio’s public license database. 

For real estate professionals, having your license listed in a publicly accessible database signals credibility and professionalism. It assures potential clients and employers that you have met all the state of Ohio real estate license requirements to operate legally and ethically in the state.

For consumers, this tool is an invaluable resource. It allows them to verify the legitimacy of the professionals they work with, ensuring they are partnering with someone with the proper qualifications and adhering to Ohio’s regulatory standards.

Tips for passing the Ohio Real Estate exam

Preparation is key to success. Here are some strategies:

• Consistent study: Review course materials daily.
• Practice tests: Familiarize yourself with the exam format and question styles.
• Target weak areas: Focus additional time on challenging topics like Ohio-specific laws or appraisal.
• Collaborate: Study with peers to reinforce understanding and motivation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get licensed in Ohio?

The process typically takes 2–3 months:

• Education: 4–6 weeks for full-time students.
• Application Processing: 2–3 weeks.
• Exam Prep and Scheduling: 1–3 weeks.

What if I fail the exam?

You can retake the exam as many times as needed within 12 months. You’ll only need to retake the section you didn’t pass (national or state).

Do I need a college degree?

No. There is not such education requirement. However, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent.

How much does it cost to get a license?

Here’s an estimate:

• Pre-License Education: $400–$800
• Application Fee: $81
• Background Check: $50–$70
• Exam Fee: $63

What are the continuing education requirements?

After your first year, complete a 20-hour post-licensing course. Then, every three years, complete 30 hours of continuing education, including:

• 3 hours on Core Law
• 3 hours on Canons of Ethics
• 3 hours on Civil Rights

Final thoughts on how to become a real estate agent in Ohio

The Ohio real estate market offers exciting opportunities for motivated professionals. Follow the steps to get your license and start a career in sales, appraisals, or even running your own brokerage. Success starts with preparation, and Lexawise is here to support you with expert tools and resources to help you pass your licensing exam.

Take the first step toward your dream career today with Lexawise, your future in real estate starts now!