What States Have Reciprocity With Illinois?

Whether you're relocating or expanding your business, you may be able to fast-track your Illinois real estate license through reciprocity.

Illinois has formal agreements with select states, meaning you can skip some steps in the licensing process based on your current credentials.

What Is Real Estate License Reciprocity?

License reciprocity allows real estate agents licensed in one state to apply for licensure in another state without having to complete the full pre-licensing education again. Instead, you may only need to:

• Pass a state-specific portion of the licensing exam
• Submit proof of your current license
• Complete an application and background check

Illinois recognizes licenses from certain states through reciprocity agreements, but the exact steps vary based on where you’re licensed now.

Who Is Eligible for Reciprocity in Illinois?

According to the Illinois Department of Financial & Professional Regulation (IDFPR), Illinois offers reciprocity to agents from:

• Colorado
• Connecticut
• Florida
• Georgia
• Indiana
• Iowa
• Nebraska
• Wisconsin

If you're licensed in one of these states, you're eligible to apply for an Illinois real estate broker license through a simplified process.

How to Get Your Illinois License Through Reciprocity

To apply for an Illinois real estate license via reciprocity, follow these steps:

1. Verify Your Eligibility

Your current license must be in good standing, and your home state must be on the list of states with reciprocity agreements. Check the official list through IDFPR’s reciprocity page.

2. Request a Certified License History

Illinois requires a certificate of license history (not just a copy of your license). This document must come directly from your state’s real estate commission and show:

• Your license type and status
• Any disciplinary actions
• Your license issuance and expiration dates

3. Complete the Reciprocity Application

Use the Illinois Reciprocity Application Form to apply. You’ll need to include:

• The completed form
• A $125 application fee
• Certified license history
• Proof of completing a 4-hour Illinois Core Law course (if required)
• A valid government-issued ID

For mailing instructions, refer to the IDFPR’s Division of Real Estate.

4. Pass the Illinois State Exam (If Required)

Some states require applicants to take only the Illinois law portion of the licensing exam. Others may waive the exam entirely. You’ll receive guidance on this after submitting your application.

5. Submit Fingerprints and Background Check

You must complete a fingerprint-based criminal background check as part of the licensing process. Illinois uses authorized vendors for fingerprinting—make sure to follow the correct process.

6. Wait for Approval and Start Practicing

Once your application is approved, you’ll receive your Illinois broker license and can begin working under a sponsoring managing broker.

What If Your State Doesn’t Have Reciprocity With Illinois?

If you're licensed in a state that doesn’t have a reciprocity agreement with Illinois, you can still apply, but you’ll need to follow the standard process for earning your broker license.

Here’s what that looks like:

1. Complete Illinois Pre-Licensing Education

Illinois requires 75 hours of pre-licensing education from a state-approved provider. This includes:

• 60 hours of real estate broker pre-license topics
• 15 hours of interactive (live or livestream) instruction

Courses must be completed before you can register for the licensing exam. You can enroll in online Illinois pre-licensing courses designed to fit your schedule.

2. Pass the Illinois Broker Licensing Exam

Once your coursework is complete, you’ll take the state licensing exam administered by PSI. The exam includes both national and state-specific sections, and you must pass both to move forward.

3. Find a Sponsoring Managing Broker

To activate your license, you’ll need a sponsoring broker in Illinois. They’ll oversee your transactions and guide you as you get started.

4. Submit Your License Application

After passing your exam and securing a sponsoring broker, you can submit your license application through IDFPR along with the required documentation and fees.

Why Get Licensed in Illinois?

With its diverse real estate markets—from Chicago condos to suburban family homes to rural properties—Illinois offers plenty of opportunity for agents looking to grow. Holding an Illinois license lets you:

• Legally represent clients in one of the country’s largest metro areas
• Tap into relocation markets with out-of-state buyers
• Expand your business reach and income potential

If you're already a licensed agent elsewhere, getting licensed in Illinois might be easier than you think.