Changes to Ohio Real Estate Broker License Requirements

The Ohio real estate market is evolving rapidly with the implementation of the Occupational License Reform Bill. These legislative changes are designed to streamline the licensing process for both real estate agents and brokers, making the pathway to a licensed career clearer and more accessible.

Under the new law, Ohio has reformed the broker licensing requirements significantly. Gone are the days when prospective brokers had to accumulate 90 college credit hours from a degree-granting institution. However, broker candidates must still complete four specific 30-hour courses focused on key business topics:

• Financial Management
• Business Law
• Human Resource Management
• Business Economics

This update is part of a broader strategy to simplify the steps to becoming a licensed broker while maintaining rigorous professional standards.

Key Takeaways

• Simplified Broker License Requirements – The 90 hours of college credit requirement has been removed. Broker candidates must complete four 30-hour courses in Financial Management, Business Law, Human Resource Management, and Business Economics.
• Changes Take Effect on April 9, 2025 – Any broker license applications submitted on or after this date can follow the new education requirements.
• Flexibility for Current Broker Students – Students who have already completed the previous 90-hour college credit requirement will still have their credentials honored. Those in progress can transition into the new course structure for a smoother licensing process.
• Hondros College Leads the Way – Hondros College has been educating the Ohio broker community for over 40 years and now offers flexible self-paced broker licensing classes and structured steps to becoming a licensed broker, ensuring students are fully prepared for their real estate broker exam.

When Do the Changes to the Ohio Broker License Requirements Take Effect?

These updated requirements take effect on April 9, 2025. Applicants applying for their broker license on or after this date will follow the new requirements.

Impact on Current Broker Students

The changes provide increased flexibility for students currently enrolled in a broker license program. If you have already completed the previous required broker courses, your credentials will still be valid under the new system.

Hondros College is committed to making this transition as seamless as possible. Students who need guidance on how these changes affect their coursework or licensing timeline can consult with Hondros advisors to determine the best path forward under the new rules.

Broader Impact of the Occupational License Reform Bill

The Occupational License Reform Bill not only simplifies the broker licensing process but also touches on pre-license requirements for real estate agents. By reducing pre-license courses from 120 to 100 hours, the bill aims to remove unnecessary barriers, paving the way for more individuals to enter licensed professions. This overall change reflects a commitment to broadening access to careers in real estate and other fields where licensing is required, ultimately supporting a more dynamic and accessible job market.

The Value of Hondros College

Hondros College is proud of playing a leading role in educating real estate professionals in Ohio.

• Expert-Led Broker License Classes: Our courses are designed to meet the state’s requirements and ensure that students receive a current and practical education.
• Clear Steps to Becoming a Licensed Broker: With a structured program that walks students through each of the required courses, Hondros College simplifies the journey from student to licensed professional.
• Self-Paced Courses: Our asynchronous self-paced courses will allow you to earn your Ohio brokers license while serving your real estate clients.

By aligning its curriculum with the new Occupational License Reform Bill, Hondros College not only supports students in meeting the updated requirements but also empowers them to launch successful careers in the Ohio real estate market.

The legislative updates to Ohio real estate broker license requirements mark a significant shift in how aspiring brokers can pursue their careers. With overall changes that reduce traditional barriers and streamline the educational pathway, the steps to becoming a licensed broker are now clearer and simpler than ever.

Hondros College stands ready to guide students through these changes with comprehensive broker license classes and a commitment to quality education, ensuring that the future of Ohio real estate is brighter and more accessible for all.