Quick Answer: You must be 18+ with a high school diploma, complete a 75-hour IDFPR-approved pre-licensing course (available online), pass the $58 state exam, and find a sponsoring managing broker. The process takes 3-4 months and costs $558-$1,208.
Getting Started
1. What are the basic requirements to get an Illinois real estate license?
To become a licensed broker in Illinois, you need to be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, complete 75 hours of IDFPR-approved pre-licensing education, pass the state broker exam, secure sponsorship from a licensed managing broker, and provide a valid Social Security Number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. No college degree is required.
2. How much does it cost to get an Illinois real estate license?
Getting licensed costs between $558 and $1,208 total. This includes pre-licensing education ($300-$900), the state exam fee ($58 per attempt), the application fee ($150), and background check with fingerprinting ($50-$100). Your choice of education provider is typically the biggest cost variable.
3. Can I take my Illinois real estate license classes online?
Yes! The IDFPR approves education providers to offer the entire 75-hour course online. Taking your Illinois real estate license online means you can study whenever and wherever works best—early mornings, late nights, or during lunch breaks. AceableAgent's online course is fully mobile-friendly, so you can study on your phone, tablet, or computer with access to instructors via email and text.
The Licensing Exam
4. What's on the Illinois real estate broker exam?
The exam is administered by PSI and has two sections. The state section has 40 multiple-choice questions covering Illinois-specific laws and regulations (90 minutes). The national section has 100 multiple-choice questions covering universal real estate principles (150 minutes). You need a scaled score of 75 or higher on each section. If you pass one but not the other, you only retake the failed section.
5. How many times can I retake the exam if I fail?
You get four attempts within your two-year eligibility window starting after you complete your pre-licensing course. Each retake costs $58. If you fail one section, you only retake that part. After four failed attempts, you must retake the entire 75-hour pre-licensing course to get a new eligibility period.
Application & Timeline
6. How long does it take to get an Illinois real estate license?
Most people complete the entire process in 3-4 months. The 75-hour pre-licensing course typically takes 4-6 weeks if you're studying part-time. After passing your course, you'll need 1-3 weeks to prepare for and take the state exam. Finding a sponsoring broker can take 1-4 weeks. Once you apply, license processing takes 1-3 business days. For a detailed timeline breakdown, check out how long it takes to get licensed.
7. Do I need a sponsoring broker in Illinois?
Yes. Your broker license remains inactive until sponsored by a licensed managing broker who oversees a brokerage. You cannot legally represent clients, show properties, or earn commissions without active sponsorship. Your sponsor supervises your work, provides training, and ensures you comply with state laws. When choosing a brokerage, look for structured training programs, supportive culture, quality technology resources, and fair commission structures.
License Maintenance
8. When do I need to renew my Illinois real estate license?
All Illinois broker licenses expire April 30 of even-numbered years—you renew every two years regardless of when you initially got licensed. For your first renewal, you must complete 45 hours of post-license education. For all subsequent renewals, you need 12 hours of continuing education (4 hours core + 8 hours electives). The renewal fee is $150. Learn more in our guide on Illinois CE vs. post-licensing.
Advanced Topics
9. Does Illinois have reciprocity with other states?
Yes. Illinois has reciprocity agreements with Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Nebraska, and Wisconsin. Licensed agents from these states can skip the 75-hour pre-licensing course but must pass the Illinois state-specific exam portion, secure a managing broker sponsor, and submit a Certificate of Licensure from their home state's licensing authority.
10. What's the difference between a broker and managing broker license?
Brokers work under managing broker supervision and can perform all real estate activities for clients. Managing brokers require 2+ years of active broker experience and 45 additional education hours. They can supervise other brokers and own brokerages. A managing broker license is required if you want to open your own real estate firm.
Start Your Illinois Real Estate Career
You now have clear answers to the top questions about Illinois real estate licensing. The path forward is straightforward: enroll in your pre-licensing course, study for the exam, and take the first step toward a flexible career with unlimited income potential.
AceableAgent's Illinois real estate license classes online fit your schedule and prepare you thoroughly for exam success. Our mobile-friendly platform lets you study whenever it works for you—early mornings, evenings, or weekends. You'll have access to experienced instructors via email and text, plus comprehensive materials that help you pass on your first attempt.
Most students complete the 75-hour course in 4-6 weeks while working full-time. Don't put off your new career any longer.