How to Get Your Real Estate License in Ohio
If you’re ready to start a career in real estate in Ohio, the first step is completing the state’s required education. Applicants must have a high school diploma (or equivalent if born after 1950) and complete 100 hours of real estate education. These courses include Real Estate Principles and Practices (40 hours), Ohio Real Estate Law (40 hours), Real Estate Appraisal (10 hours), and Real Estate Finance (10 hours). Courses must be completed at a qualified institution within ten years of applying for the exam.
Once your education is complete, you’ll need to be sponsored by a licensed Ohio broker before submitting your application. The Salesperson Examination Application includes an $81 fee and proof of education completion—either transcripts or course certificates. Once submitted, the Ohio Division of Real Estate and Professional Licensing will review your materials and forward them to the testing vendor, who will then provide you with instructions to schedule your exam.
To qualify for a real estate license in Ohio, applicants must be at least 18 years old, be of good character, and have no recent convictions related to civil rights or moral turpitude. If any concerns exist, you may still apply and request a review by the Division. After passing the State and National portions of the licensing exam with a score of at least 70%, you’ll receive your license. But the journey doesn’t stop there—new licensees must complete 20 hours of post-licensing education within their first year.
Continued success in real estate also requires ongoing education. Every three years, Ohio licensees must complete 30 hours of continuing education, including mandatory core courses. Brokers have similar requirements, with slightly more education hours in core subjects.
For the most up-to-date guidance, visit the Ohio Division of Real Estate & Professional Licensing website or call 614-466-4100.
✅ Ohio Real Estate Salesperson License Checklist
Pre-Licensing Requirements
☐ Be at least 18 years old
☐ Have a high school diploma or equivalent (if born after 1950)
☐ Be honest, truthful, and of good reputation
☐ Have no felony or moral turpitude convictions, or civil rights violations in the past two years
Education Requirements (100 Hours Total)
☐ Real Estate Principles and Practices – 40 hours
☐ Ohio Real Estate Law (includes civil rights and housing discrimination) – 40 hours
☐ Real Estate Appraisal – 10 hours
☐ Real Estate Finance – 10 hours
🔎 Must be completed within 10 years of applying
📚 Must be completed at an approved institution
Application Process
☐ Obtain sponsorship from a licensed Ohio real estate broker
☐ Submit the Salesperson Examination Application
☐ Include $81 application fee
☐ Attach proof of education (transcripts or course completion certificates)
☐ If applicable, submit detailed explanations for any “Yes” answers to Ethical Conduct questions
Licensing Exam
☐ Wait for the Candidate Information Bulletin from the testing vendor
☐ Schedule and take the State and National exams
☐ Pass both portions with at least a 70% score
Post-Licensing & Continuing Education
☐ Complete 20 hours of post-licensing education within 12 months of license issuance
☐ Complete 30 hours of continuing education every 3 years (includes 9 mandatory core hours)
