Can You Get a Real Estate License with a Criminal Record in Tennessee?

Short answer: Yes.
Having a criminal record doesn’t automatically disqualify you from becoming a licensed real estate agent in Tennessee. The Tennessee Real Estate Commission (TREC) reviews applications individually and looks at your whole story, not just your past.

What the Tennessee Real Estate Commission Considers

If you’ve had a prior conviction, here’s what TREC evaluates:

• The offense: Crimes involving fraud, dishonesty, or moral turpitude are reviewed more seriously.
• Time passed: The more time between the conviction and your application, the better.
• Rehabilitation efforts: These include stable employment, education, volunteer work, and completion of rehab programs.
• Honesty: TREC values transparency. Disclose everything upfront.

If you're unsure where to start, here's a clear breakdown of how to get your Tennessee real estate license.

Steps to Apply with a Criminal Record

1. Submit a preliminary review request
   Before you start your courses, you can ask TREC to review your criminal history by submitting this application form. This can give you peace of mind before committing.
2. Get fingerprinted
   Tennessee uses electronic fingerprinting via IdentoGO. Follow these official fingerprinting instructions.
3. Collect supporting documents
   Include court records, letters of recommendation, certificates, and any proof of rehabilitation that supports your application.
4. Complete the required 90-hour education
   Learn more about your Tennessee real estate education requirements, including a 60-hour Basic Principles course and a 30-hour New Affiliates course.
5. Pass the licensing exam
   When you finish your coursework, you’ll take the licensing exam through PSI. Want to see how you’d do? Try this free Tennessee practice test.
6. Apply for your license
   Submit your full application through TREC’s online CORE system, and make sure you have your Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance ready.

Even If You're Thinking...

• “This happened forever ago—does it still matter?”
• “I’ve turned my life around, but will they see that?”
• “Maybe I’m not the kind of person who gets licensed…”

You’re not alone. Many others have felt the same way and gone on to build rewarding careers in real estate. TREC wants the full story, and they’ve approved honest applicants who demonstrated real growth.

Ready to Start Again—On Your Terms?

Your past doesn’t have to define your future. Real estate offers flexibility, independence, and real earning potential—and we’re here to help you get there.