Illinois Real Estate License Requirements (IDFPR)
Illinois operates as a "Broker-only" state. There is no "Salesperson" license. Entry-level agents are called Brokers, and those who manage agencies are called Managing Brokers.
The Pre-Licensing Requirement (75 Hours)
You must complete 75 hours of pre-licensing education. This is split into two distinct courses:
- Broker Pre-License Topics 60 Hours
- Broker Pre-License Applied Real Estate Principles 15 Hours (Must be interactive)
The 15-hour Applied Principles course must be taken in an interactive format (live webinar or in-person classroom), meaning you cannot do the entire 75 hours as self-paced online text.
State Exam Structure
- National Section: 100 Questions.
- State Section: 40 Questions.
- Time Limit: 3.5 hours total.
- Passing Score: 75% on both sections.
- Cost: $58 (administered by PSI).
Age Requirement
While many states allow 18-year-olds to get a license, Illinois requires you to be at least 18 years old and possess a high school diploma or equivalent.
Sponsorship and Application
After passing the exam, you must submit your application to the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) with a $125 initial license fee. Your license will remain inactive until you are sponsored by an Illinois Managing Broker.