How to Obtain Your Illinois Real Estate License

We are here to help you navigate the licensing process. For questions, or to talk further, contact Darcy Holle, Director of Career Development, at 563-441-5102.

Step 1: Register for the 75-hour Pre-Broker License Course.

This course is required for you to receive your license. It consists of two tracks, which includes 60 hours of online instruction and 15 hours of interactive coursework, which can be done by webinar. The total cost is $475. Click here to register.

Step 2: Take the 75-hour Pre-Broker License Course.

This package is designed to provide you with the 75 hours of instruction required to be eligible for an Illinois broker license.

This course prepares you for the Illinois state licensing exam as well as provides the practical business knowledge and foundation necessary to be a successful real estate broker in Illinois.

Included in this package are:

  • Illinois 60-Hour Broker Pre-Licensed Topics
  • Illinois 15-Hour Applied Real Estate Principles – Interactive

In addition to completing this course, to receive your license you must be at least 21 years of age, have a high school education (or the equivalent) and score at least 75% on your Illinois Real Estate Exam.

Step 3: Register to take the Broker’s Real Estate Licensing Examination.

Schedule your exam via phone or online. Please have your credit card available for payment. Exam fee $55.00.

Step 4: Take examination.

Testing is offered several days a week at the H&R Block office in Davenport, Iowa. You can also take the test at other locations, including Rockford, Bloomington, Chicago area, Springfield, Carbondale, and Champaign-Urbana.

Step 5: Apply for Broker’s License.

Upon receipt of a passing score of 75%, the applicant receives instructions to submit an online application. The application must be submitted within (1) one year of the exam pass date. You must have a sponsoring broker at this time.

The online application will be reviewed by the department, and, if you meet all requirements, a confirmation will be e-mailed to the applicant. (Please note:  In the State of Illinois, you cannot be issued a real estate license if you currently owe back child support, unless payment arrangements have been made, and are being met.)

Step 6: Licensed Issued: After Approval by Sponsoring Broker; you will be notified by the State of Illinois, via email,  when your Broker’s license has been processed. This email will include your license.

Please note: Broker Licenses expire April 30th of the even years. Managing Broker licenses expire April 30th of the odd years. For Broker’s FIRST renewal, a very specific 45 hours of continuing education is required. (three 15-hour online courses).