How to Get a Real Estate License in Illinois
Everything you need to know about becoming a licensed real estate agent in Illinois — from pre-license education and exam prep to finding your first brokerage. Updated for 2026.
Illinois Real Estate License Requirements
Before you can take the Illinois real estate exam, you must meet these requirements set by the Illinois Department of Financial & Professional Regulation (IDFPR).
Age & Education
Must be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or equivalent (GED).
Pre-License Education
Complete 75 hours of approved real estate courses from a Illinois Department of Financial & Professional Regulation (IDFPR)-approved school.
Background Check
Pass a criminal background check and fingerprinting as required by the Illinois Department of Financial & Professional Regulation (IDFPR).
5 Steps to Get Your Illinois Real Estate License
Follow these steps to go from zero to licensed real estate agent in Illinois. Most candidates complete the process in 3 – 5 months.
Complete 75 Hours of Pre-License Education
Enroll in a Illinois Department of Financial & Professional Regulation (IDFPR)-approved real estate school and complete the required 75 hours of coursework. Courses are available online or in-person and cover topics like contracts, property ownership, agency law, and Illinois-specific regulations.
Apply to the Illinois Department of Financial & Professional Regulation (IDFPR)
Submit your exam application to the Illinois Department of Financial & Professional Regulation (IDFPR) along with the $46 exam fee. You will also need to complete a background check and fingerprinting as part of the application process.
Schedule and Pass the Illinois Real Estate Salesperson Exam
The Illinois exam has 140 multiple-choice questions with a 4 hours time limit. You need a score of 75% to pass. The first-time pass rate is approximately 56%, so thorough preparation is essential.
Activate Your Real Estate License
Once you pass the exam, submit your license application along with the license fee to the Illinois Department of Financial & Professional Regulation (IDFPR). Your license will remain inactive until you affiliate with a sponsoring broker.
Find a Sponsoring Brokerage
As a newly licensed agent in Illinois, you must work under a licensed broker. Interview several brokerages to find the right fit for your career — consider training programs, commission splits, and mentorship opportunities.
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The Illinois Real Estate Salesperson Exam
Here is what to expect on exam day and how to prepare.
The exam covers both national real estate principles and Illinois-specific law. Key topics include: Property Ownership, Agency Law, Contracts, Finance, Illinois License Law, and more.
How Much Does a Illinois Real Estate License Cost?
Here is a breakdown of the typical costs to get your real estate license in Illinois. Total estimated investment: $436 – $1,326.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Illinois Real Estate License?
Most candidates complete the Illinois licensing process in 3 – 5 months. Here is a typical timeline.
Pre-License Education
Complete 75 hours of coursework (at roughly 15 hours per week, part-time).
Exam Application
Submit your application to the Illinois Department of Financial & Professional Regulation (IDFPR) and schedule your exam date.
Exam Preparation
Study with practice tests, flashcards, and mock exams to ensure you pass on your first attempt.
Exam Day & Results
Take the 140-question exam. Results are typically available the same day or within a few days.
Background Check & Licensing
Complete fingerprinting, background check, and submit your license application.
Find a Brokerage
Interview brokerages and select a sponsoring broker in Illinois to activate your license.
Illinois Real Estate License FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about getting a real estate license in Illinois.
How long does it take to get a real estate license in Illinois?
Most candidates complete the Illinois licensing process in 3 – 5 months. This includes 75 hours of pre-license education (which takes roughly 5 weeks at a part-time pace), plus time to apply, schedule the exam, pass the 140-question test, complete a background check, and find a sponsoring broker.
How much does a Illinois real estate license cost?
The total cost to get a real estate license in Illinois typically ranges from $436 – $1,326. This includes pre-license education ($400 – $800), the exam fee ($46), background check ($40 – $80), and the license application fee ($50 – $200). Costs vary by school and application method.
What are the requirements for a Illinois real estate license?
To get a Illinois real estate license, you must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or equivalent, complete 75 hours of approved pre-license education, pass the Illinois real estate salesperson exam with a score of 75%, pass a background check, and find a sponsoring broker.
How hard is the Illinois real estate exam?
The Illinois real estate exam is challenging — the first-time pass rate is approximately 56%. The exam has 140 multiple-choice questions covering both national and Illinois-specific topics. You have 4 hours to complete it and need 75% to pass. Focused preparation with practice exams significantly improves your chances.
Can I get a real estate license in Illinois with no experience?
Yes. Illinois does not require any prior real estate experience to obtain a salesperson license. You must complete 75 hours of pre-license education, pass the licensing exam, and work under a supervising broker. Many new agents start their careers with no prior experience and learn on the job through their brokerage's training program.
Illinois Real Estate Resources
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