How to get a real estate license in Illinois
Illinois requires 75 hours of pre-licensing education, a state exam given by PSI, and a background check to become a broker.
Last checked October 2026. Official source: Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
- License
- Broker
- Pre-licensing education
- 75 hours
- State exam
- PSI. Expect a national section and a Illinois law section.
- Background check
- Criminal background check. IDFPR explains whether fingerprints are required and how to submit them.
- Broker
- New licensees work under a licensed broker.
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Steps to get licensed in Illinois
- 1
Complete 75 hours of approved education
Take the pre-licensing course from a school approved by IDFPR.
- 2
Pass the state exam
Schedule with PSI once you're eligible. Expect a national section and a Illinois law section.
- 3
Complete the background check
Complete the criminal background check IDFPR requires. Most states use fingerprints.
- 4
Affiliate with a broker
Choose a licensed Illinois broker to work under. The broker is usually part of your application or license activation.
- 5
Apply for your license
Submit your application and fees to the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation.
Required courses
| Course | Hours |
|---|---|
| Pre-licensing course | 75 |
| Total | 75 |
State fees
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Estimated state feesExam, application, and background check combined. Confirm current amounts with IDFPR. | About $270 |
Course tuition is set by each school and isn't included.
After you're licensed
- Check IDFPR for Illinois's current post-licensing, continuing education, and renewal requirements.
Licensed in another state?
Illinois doesn't offer broad reciprocity, so most agents licensed elsewhere complete Illinois's requirements. Check IDFPR for exceptions.
Illinois real estate license FAQ
Who issues real estate licenses in Illinois?
The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) issues the broker license in Illinois. Its official website is idfpr.illinois.gov.
How many hours of pre-licensing education does Illinois require?
Illinois requires 75 hours of approved pre-licensing education.
What courses do I need to take for a Illinois real estate license?
The required coursework is Pre-licensing course (75 hours).
What is the Illinois real estate exam like?
PSI. Expect a national section and a Illinois law section.
Is a background check required in Illinois?
Criminal background check. IDFPR explains whether fingerprints are required and how to submit them.
Do I need a sponsoring broker to get licensed in Illinois?
New licensees work under a licensed broker.
How much does a Illinois real estate license cost?
State fees include estimated state fees (About $270). Course tuition is set by each school and is not included.
Can I transfer a real estate license from another state to Illinois?
Illinois doesn't offer broad reciprocity, so most agents licensed elsewhere complete Illinois's requirements. Check IDFPR for exceptions.
What do I need to do after getting my Illinois real estate license?
Check IDFPR for Illinois's current post-licensing, continuing education, and renewal requirements.
Get course info for Illinois
Tell us how to reach you and we'll connect you with an approved Illinois real estate school.
Requirements and fees change. Confirm the current rules with the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation before you enroll or apply.