Missouri Real Estate License Requirements: Step-by-Step Guide

Missouri Real Estate License Requirements

Getting your Missouri real estate license involves completing a defined sequence of steps under the oversight of the Missouri Real Estate Commission (MREC). Here is the complete process from eligibility through active licensure.

Step 1: Meet Basic Eligibility Requirements

To apply for a Missouri salesperson license, you must: - Be at least 18 years old - Have a high school diploma or GED - Be of good moral character - Pass a criminal background check

Missouri conducts a background check on all applicants. Prior convictions do not automatically disqualify you, but the MREC evaluates each case individually. Full disclosure on your application is required — failure to disclose is itself grounds for denial.

Step 2: Complete 72 Hours of Prelicense Education

Missouri requires 72 hours of approved prelicense coursework from an MREC-approved school. The 72-hour requirement is notably higher than many neighboring states. The curriculum includes:

• Real estate principles and practices
• Missouri real estate law (Missouri Revised Statutes Chapter 339)
• The Missouri Brokerage Relationship Act
• Contracts, financing, valuation, and property ownership
• MREC rules and ethical obligations

You must complete the full 72 hours before you may apply to take the state exam.

Step 3: Pass the Missouri Real Estate Exam

The exam is administered by PSI at approved testing centers throughout Missouri. Exam details:

• Format: 80 national questions + 40 state questions = 120 total
• Time limit: 3 hours
• Passing score: 70% (84 out of 120 correct)
• Fee: Check PSI's current pricing at time of scheduling

Both sections must be passed. If you fail one section, you retake only that section.

Step 4: Apply for Your License

After passing the exam, submit your license application to the MREC. You will need:

• Completed MREC application form
• Proof of passing exam scores (provided at the test center)
• Criminal background check results
• Proof of affiliation with a licensed Missouri broker

Salesperson licenses in Missouri are inactive until you have a sponsoring broker. The broker files an affiliation notice with the MREC, which activates your license.

Step 5: Complete the Background Check

Missouri requires fingerprinting for a background check conducted by the Missouri State Highway Patrol and the FBI. This is typically done through IdentoGO or a similar provider. Results are submitted directly to the MREC.

License Renewal

Missouri real estate salesperson licenses must be renewed every 2 years. Requirements for renewal:

• Complete 12 hours of continuing education per renewal cycle
• At least 3 of the 12 hours must be Missouri-specific CE
• CE must be completed through MREC-approved providers
• License must be renewed before the expiration date to avoid lapse penalties

If a Missouri license lapses, reinstatement may require additional coursework or other requirements depending on how long the license was inactive.

Reciprocity

Missouri has reciprocity agreements with other states. If you hold an active license in a qualifying state, you may obtain a Missouri license by passing the Missouri state section of the exam only (waiving the national section requirement). Requirements vary by state — contact the MREC directly for current reciprocity information.

No State Transfer Tax

One Missouri-specific fact that affects licensees and their clients: Missouri has no state real estate transfer tax. This is tested on the Missouri exam and is a meaningful distinction from most other states.

For complete Missouri exam preparation including state-specific practice questions on MREC rules, BRA agency types, and licensing requirements, visit [CARealestate.com/states/missouri](https://carealestate.com/states/missouri).