Your Guide to Becoming a Real Estate Agent in Indiana
If you’re considering a career in real estate in Indiana, you’re in the right place. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you understand the process and requirements for becoming a licensed real estate agent in the Hoosier State.
Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements
To start your journey, you need to meet the following criteria:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent (GED)
- Have good moral character and people-first mindset
Step 2: Complete Your Pre-Licensing Education
Indiana requires you to complete a 90-hour pre-licensing course approved by the state. This course covers essential topics like contracts, fair housing, investments and taxes, and property law. To move forward, you must pass the course exam with a minimum score of 75%.
Step 3: Register for the Indiana Real Estate Licensing Exam
Once you’ve completed your pre-licensing education, it’s time to register for the licensing exam. Sign up with Professional Service Industries (PSI) and pay the $53 exam fee.
Step 4: Pass the Indiana Real Estate Licensing Exam
The licensing exam consists of 125 questions that cover both national and state-specific requirements. You need to achieve a minimum score of 75% to pass.
Step 5: Find a Sponsoring Broker
Before you can practice, you must secure a licensed Indiana real estate broker to sponsor you. Choose a broker that aligns with your career goals and offers the support you need.
Step 6: Submit Your License Application
Next, complete and submit the Indiana Real Estate Broker License application to the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency. You’ll also need to pay a $60 application fee and submit your fingerprints for a criminal background check.
Step 7: Join a Local Board of Realtors (Optional but Recommended)
While optional, joining a local board of REALTORS® can provide valuable networking opportunities and resources. For instance, in Indianapolis, you might join the Metropolitan Indianapolis Board of REALTORS® (MIBOR). Be prepared to pay applicable fees such as a one-time application fee, membership dues, and technology fees.
Step 8: Receive Your License
After your application is processed by the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency, you will receive your real estate license.
Step 9: Complete Post-licensing Education
Within the first two years of receiving your license, you must complete a state-approved, 30-hour broker post-licensing course. This course fulfills your initial continuing education (CE) requirement.
Step 10: Maintain Your License
To keep your license active, you need to complete 12 hours of continuing education each year. After completing the post-licensing course, you’ll begin a three-year license renewal period. Make sure to save your CE certificates of completion in case of an audit.
Optional: Become a Managing Broker
If you aspire to advance your career, consider becoming a managing broker. After gaining experience, you can complete a state-approved, 24-hour managing broker course to hold your own license.