How to Get a Real Estate License in Ohio

Getting a real estate license in Ohio doesn’t require a college degree or years of training. Instead, within two or three months from now, you could be helping clients sell condos in Columbus or colonials in Cleveland. Keep reading to learn how to get a real estate license in Ohio.

Basic Requirements for Getting a Real Estate License in Ohio

Before we describe each step of the licensing process, make sure you can check off these basic requirements for working as a real estate agent in Ohio.

• You must be at least 18 and have a high school diploma or equivalent.
• You must be a U.S. citizen or can provide proof of being a legal alien.
• You must not have been convicted of a disqualifying offense as listed in this Ohio legal code.
• You must not have been judged by a court to have violated any municipal, state, or federal civil rights laws relevant to the protection of purchasers or sellers of real estate. (However, if two years have passed since the court decision, you may be able to continue with the licensing process.)

Can you meet these basic requirements? Then, you can get started with the real estate licensing process today! The first step is to sign up for pre-licensing courses.

How to Become a Real Estate Agent in Ohio

You must take classes, pass a test and a background check, and get sponsored by a broker to become a real estate agent in Ohio. Here are the steps in the licensing process.

1. Enroll in Ohio real estate classes.

Instead of binge-watching your favorite Netflix series, use your time to complete the pre-licensing coursework required to become a real estate salesperson. The 120-hour course breaks down into these four categories:

• Real Estate Principles and Practices (40 hours)
• Ohio Real Estate Law (40 hours)
• Real Estate Appraisal (20 hours)
• Real Estate Finance (20 hours)

Consider your learning style and schedule when choosing a real estate school. You can take classes in person or via livestream. Some schools also offer a self-paced, online program – or you may be able to take courses through a combination of these formats.

Regardless of your preferred format, read reviews of each school you are considering. Look for real estate schools that offer exam prep and instructor support. Some real estate schools will also connect you with companies in your area looking for beginning real estate agents.

2. Find a sponsoring broker.

Like in other states, real estate agents in Ohio must work under a broker’s supervision. You must have a sponsoring broker before applying to take the Ohio Real Estate Salesperson Exam. Some real estate schools will help you connect with hiring brokers in your area, so consider this when choosing an education provider.

3. Apply to take the Ohio Real Estate Salesperson Exam.

After you have completed the 120 hours of pre-licensing education and found a sponsoring broker, you need to apply to take the Ohio Real Estate Salesperson Exam. Begin that process by creating an account with the Ohio Department of Commerce Division of Real Estate eLicense Center.

Here are the documents that you need to provide with your application:

• Salesperson Examination Application
• Course completion certificate
• Proof of legal presence
• Broker hire form
• Information required to complete state and FBI background check
• Fingerprint card (FastFingerprints will help you fulfill this requirement. For more information about fingerprinting options, click here.)

Once your application is processed and accepted, you’ll receive instructions on scheduling your exam and a Candidate Information Bulletin from PSI.

4. Pass the Ohio Real Estate Salesperson Exam.

Once you receive instructions, schedule your Ohio Real Estate Salesperson Exam by calling PSI Exams at 1-855-834-8749 or by visiting their website. The test costs $63.

You’ll have 180 minutes to complete the state and national sections. You’ll find out your score immediately upon completion of the test. You must pass the state and national portions of the exam with a 70% for a license to be issued.

Additional Information About Getting an Ohio Real Estate License

How long will it take? How much does it cost? Keep reading to find the answers to these questions – and more!

How long does getting an Ohio real estate license take?

On average, it takes two to three months to get an Ohio real estate license, depending on how fast you complete the 120 hours of pre-licensing courses and the application processing times.

How much does getting an Ohio real estate license cost?

Some of the costs for getting an Ohio real estate license are fixed, such as the application and exam fee. Here are some of the expected expenses:

• Ohio Salesperson Exam Application $81
• Ohio BCI State & FBI Database Checks (fingerprinting fee) $72
• Salesperson Exam $63

However, you will notice that the price varies on pre-licensing packages. When choosing a real estate school, make sure you select one with a solid reputation for providing quality state-specific information. If you skimp on your education, you may end up paying more for exam-prep materials and test retakes.

What is the average salary of an Ohio real estate salesperson?

Real estate agents earn commissions based on a percentage of the sale price, so the average salary of a real estate salesperson can vary greatly. Learn more about the average income of an Ohio real estate salesperson by downloading this salary guide.