Licensing Requirements

Ohio Real Estate License Requirements

Before you can practice real estate in Ohio, you must obtain a salesperson license issued by the Ohio Division of Real Estate and Professional Licensing. Here are the step-by-step requirements:

1. Meet the basic eligibility requirements: You must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and be a legal U.S. resident.
2. Complete pre-licensing education: Ohio requires 120 hours of approved real estate education. Most students complete this at Hondros College, which also offers a highly effective crammer/exam prep course. Courses are available in-person and online.
3. Choose your sponsoring broker BEFORE the exam: Ohio requires you to have a sponsoring brokerage before sitting for your state exam. This is an important decision — choose carefully. If you're interested in joining Keller Williams Elevate, complete this form and Lisa will connect you with someone at KW.
4. Pass the Ohio Real Estate Exam: The exam is administered by PSI Exams and consists of a national portion (80 questions) and an Ohio-specific portion (40 questions). You must score 70% or higher on each section. Schedule at PSI Exams.
5. Complete a background check: Ohio requires a criminal background check as part of the licensing application. Having a criminal record doesn't automatically disqualify you — each case is reviewed individually.
6. Apply for your license: Submit your application to the Ohio Division of Real Estate along with your exam results, background check, and applicable fees. Current application fee is $81.
7. Complete post-licensing education: After receiving your license, Ohio requires 20 hours of post-licensing education within your first year of licensure.

Continuing Education

Once licensed, Ohio REALTORS® must complete 30 hours of continuing education every 3 years to renew their license, including a mandatory 3-hour ethics course.

Also see: Become a REALTOR® — Career Overview