How Much Does It Cost to Get a Real Estate License in Ohio?

You must have a real estate license to work as a real estate salesperson in Ohio, and there are some costs involved in getting that license. How much does it cost to become a real estate agent in Ohio? Let’s do a deep dive into this topic so you know what to expect. 

Key Takeaways:

• Total Costs: $1,694-$2,524
• Ohio requires 120 hours of pre-licensing education courses.
• Cost includes pre-license course, application fee, exam fee, and background check fees.

Cost of Getting a Real Estate License in Ohio 

You must take a pre-licensing course, pass a test, and complete an application and background check to become a real estate agent in Ohio. Most of those steps come with a fee.  

Course fees – $1,500-$2,300 

Ohio law requires 120 hours of pre-licensing education courses and the cost could range from $1,500 – $2,300. The courses must be taken at an institute of higher education which awards degrees.  

As you research real estate schools, you’ll notice the price varies depending on the institution. However, selecting a real estate school based entirely on price would be a mistake. Before choosing a school, ensure you understand the course format options – and the support and resources the school provides. 

Application fee – $81 

The application fee is $81.  After completing the pre-licensing coursework, you’ll complete the Salesperson License Examination Application.

Exam fee – $63 

The state and national exam fee is $63. You must pass both exams to continue the licensing process.

Once the Real Estate and the Professional Licensing Division has processed your application, the department will forward your information to PSI, the testing vendor. PSI will contact you with information on how to schedule your test. 

It’s worth noting that applicants must pay each time they take the exam. So, there’s a financial advantage of passing the first time.  

Background check fee – $50-$80 

The biometrics and background check costs vary by location but range in price from $50 to $80.

It makes sense that real estate agents must go through background checks. After all, as a real estate agent, you will have access to valuable information and will be able to enter clients’ homes when they are away. 

You must go to a Webcheck location center to complete your state and federal background check.

Post-licensing courses – $200 

As a real estate salesperson in Ohio, you must complete a 20-hour real estate sales post-licensing course for $200 within one year of your license issuance date. This course will teach you about changes in the industry and how to apply what you have learned. 

Cost of Maintaining a Real Estate License in Ohio - $352 

The continuing education course costs vary by provider, but they hover around $170. The renewal application fee is $182.

Like most licensed professionals, Ohio real estate agents must take continuing education courses and pay to renew their licenses. You must complete 30 hours of continuing education within three years of your first-year renewal. Most real estate agents purchase a package that includes all their CE requirements and complete the coursework as time allows. 

Other Real Estate License Costs in the USA 

There are other costs associated with working as a real estate agent. For example, you may pay for membership with the National Association of REALTORS® and your local real estate board. In addition, your brokerage may charge a desk fee to cover office expenses. 

As you can see, becoming a real estate agent requires a financial investment. However, choosing a high-quality real estate school could lower your costs.  

Hondros College has licensed more real estate agents in Ohio than any other school. We are so confident in our ability to help you pass the licensing exam that we offer the pass-or-don’t-pay guarantee. 

Are you ready to become a real estate agent in Ohio? Visit Hondros College. Within just a few months, you could be a licensed real estate agent prepared to embark on a new career.