How to Get an Illinois Broker's License: A Step-by-Step Guide
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Ready to launch a real estate career in Illinois? You're in the right place. Illinois calls its entry-level real estate license a broker's license — there's no "salesperson" or "agent" license in this state. That means the first license you earn is also the one that lets you represent buyers, sellers, and renters in any real estate transaction. Here's exactly what the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR)Dre.html Idfpr.illinois.govDre.html Idfpr.illinois.govDre.html Idfpr.illinois.gov requires — and how to get there.
Illinois Broker License Requirements
Before diving into the steps, make sure you meet the state's basic eligibility criteria:
- At least 18 years old
- High school diploma or GED
- Valid Social Security Number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
- Ability to pass a background check
No college degree required. If you meet those requirements, you're eligible to get licensed in Illinois.
Already licensed in another state? Illinois replaced its old reciprocity agreements with a single endorsement pathwayIllinois What States Have Reciprocity Illinois Career Center as of January 1, 2026 — meaning agents from all 50 states can qualify for a streamlined process.
Steps to Get Your Illinois Real Estate Broker License
Step 1: Complete the 75-Hour Pre-Licensing Course
Illinois requires 75 hours of IDFPR-approved pre-licensing education before you can sit for the state exam. The curriculum is split into two courses:
- Broker Pre-License Topics — 60 hours covering real estate principles, Illinois license law, contracts, fair housing, finance, and appraisal
- Applied Real Estate Principles — 15 hours of practical, real-world application of what you've learned
You'll need to pass a course final exam with a score of at least 75% to complete your education requirement. Most students finish the full 75 hours in 4–6 weeks studying part-time. AceableAgent's Illinois broker pre-licensing courseIllinois Broker Real Estate License is IDFPR-approved and designed to fit around your schedule — study on your phone, tablet, or computer, whenever works for you.
Step 2: Pass the Illinois Real Estate Broker Exam
Once your coursework is complete, you'll schedule the state licensing exam through PSITest Takers.psiexams.com, Illinois's official exam administrator. Here's what to expect:
- National section: 100 questions — passing scaled score of 75
- Illinois-specific section: 40 questions — passing scaled score of 75
- Total time allowed: 3.5 hours
- Exam fee: $58 per attempt (paid directly to PSI)
You must pass both sections independently. If you pass one and not the other, you only retake the section you didn't pass. Your course completion certificate is valid for two years — so you have time to prepare, but don't wait too long. AceableAgent's Illinois real estate exam prepIllinois Real Estate Exam Prep includes 800+ practice questions and targeted review to help you pass on the first try.
Step 3: Complete Your Background Check and Fingerprinting
Illinois requires fingerprint-based background screening through an IDFPR-approved vendor. Budget $50–$75 for this step. Any past convictions are reviewed on a case-by-case basis — disclose accurately on your application.
Step 4: Find a Sponsoring Managing Broker
This step is non-negotiable. Your Illinois broker license stays inactive until you're sponsored by a licensed managing broker. Without active sponsorship, you cannot legally represent clients, show properties, or earn commissions.
When evaluating brokerages, ask about commission splits and fee structures, training programs for new brokers, marketing and technology support, and mentorship opportunities. The right brokerage can make a real difference in your first few years.
Step 5: Apply for Your License Through IDFPR
After passing the exam and securing your managing broker sponsor, submit your license application through the IDFPR Online Services PortalDre.html Idfpr.illinois.govDre.html Idfpr.illinois.govDre.html Idfpr.illinois.gov. The application fee is $150. You have one year from passing the exam to apply — don't let that window lapse. Once approved (typically within a few business days), you're officially licensed and ready to practice real estate in Illinois.
How Much Does an Illinois Broker License Cost?
Here's a realistic breakdown of what to expect. For a more detailed look, see our full guide to the cost of getting an Illinois real estate licenseIllinois Cost Of Illinois Real Estate License Career Center.
| Expense | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Pre-licensing course (online) | $300–$900 |
| State exam fee | $58 per attempt |
| Background check & fingerprinting | $50–$75 |
| License application fee | $150 |
| Total estimated cost | $558–$1,183 |
Online pre-licensing courses are the most affordable path and give you the flexibility to study at your own pace.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Illinois Real Estate License?
Most people complete the full process in 3–4 months. Here's how that typically breaks down:
- Pre-licensing course: 4–6 weeks
- Exam prep and scheduling: 1–3 weeks
- Finding a sponsoring broker: 1–4 weeks
- License application processing: a few business days
Your timeline depends mostly on how quickly you move through the coursework. Want a more detailed breakdown? See our guide on how long it takes to get an Illinois real estate licenseIllinois How Long To Get Real Estate License Illinois Career Center.
What Happens After You Get Licensed?
Post-Licensing Education
Illinois requires new brokers to complete 45 hours of post-licensing education before their first license renewal. All Illinois broker licenses expire on April 30 of even-numbered years. After that first renewal, you'll need 12 hours of continuing education every two years (4 core + 8 elective hours). Learn what's required in our guide to maintaining your Illinois real estate licenseIllinois What Brokers Know To Renew Illinois License Career Center.
Thinking About the Next Level?
Once you've held an active broker license for two of the past three years, you can pursue a managing broker license in IllinoisIllinois Become Managing Broker Illinois Career Center. Managing brokers can open their own brokerage, supervise other brokers, and work independently. It requires 45 additional hours of pre-licensing education and passing a separate state exam.
Earning Potential in Illinois Real Estate
The average Illinois real estate agent earns $95,927 per year according to Indeed (January 2026), though your income will depend on transaction volume, location, and how quickly you build your client base. Most new brokers plan for a 6–12 month ramp-up period before consistent income kicks in. Curious what you could earn? Explore Illinois real estate agent salariesIllinois How Much Real Estate Agents Make Illinois Career Center by market and experience level.
Additional Resources
- IDFPR Division of Real EstateDre.html Idfpr.illinois.govDre.html Idfpr.illinois.govDre.html Idfpr.illinois.gov — official licensing portal, application status, and regulatory updates
- Illinois Real Estate Career CenterIllinois Career Center — guides on salary, commissions, reciprocity, and more
- Illinois REALTORS® — professional association resources, CE courses, and advocacy