How to Become a Real Estate Agent in Indiana

how to become a real estate agent
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Table of Contents

Indiana Real Estate Licenses

For anyone seeking an Indiana real estate license, this guide outlines all the crucial steps, including real estate continuing education.

It’s tailored for all aspiring agents in the state, with special details for those in Indianapolis (IN) and other significant areas.

We highlight the best real estate classes and online courses, providing a range of options to suit your educational needs and career goals in Indiana.

Don't Become a Realtor If...

If you’re seriously interested in getting your real estate license, here are some great additional resources:

Requirements

To become a real estate agent in Indiana, you must:

  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
  • Have a high school diploma or equivalent (GED)

Like all US states, Indiana allows out-of-state applicants, so you do not need to reside there to become licensed as a real estate agent.

Pre-Licensing Education

Complete 90 hours of pre-license education through courses approved by the Indiana Real Estate Commission. These courses include:

  • Real Estate Fundamentals and Practices (90 hours)

Examination

Pass the Indiana Real Estate Salesperson Examination administered by Pearson VUE. The exam consists of a national portion and a state-specific portion. You need to pass both sections with a score of at least 75%.

  • Exam Fee: $53
 

Indiana Real Estate Exam Details

Exam Structure

  • Total Questions: 125 multiple-choice questions
  • National Portion: 75 questions
  • State-Specific Portion: 50 questions
  • Time Limit: 4 hours
  • Passing Score: 75% overall (minimum 56 correct answers on the national portion and 38 on the state portion)

Registration and Fees

Identification Documents

  • Candidates must bring two forms of identification on exam day, including a government-issued photo ID with a signature (e.g., driver’s license or passport).

Exam Difficulty and Passing Rates
The Indiana Real Estate Exam is considered moderately challenging. Candidates must score at least 75% on both the national and state-specific sections.

Required Forms and Documents

  • Application: Submit the License Application form with the necessary fees.
  • Additional Forms: Include proof of completed pre-licensing education and other required documentation.

 

Background Check Process for Indiana Real Estate License

  1. Submission of Application

  2. Fingerprinting

    • Service Provider: Indiana mandates that applicants use IdentoGO for fingerprinting. You must wait for an email notification from the licensing board with instructions, including the required Service Code.
    • Appointment: Schedule an appointment online at IdentoGO or by calling (877) 472-6917. Ensure you have a government-issued photo ID for the appointment.
    • Fee: The cost of fingerprinting is approximately $38.20.
  3. Fingerprinting Process

    • At the fingerprinting appointment, IdentoGO will electronically capture your fingerprints. This data is then submitted to the Indiana State Police and the FBI for a comprehensive background check.
  4. Review and Approval

    • The Indiana Real Estate Commission reviews the background check results and your application. The processing time is generally 2 to 5 business days after receiving all required documents.
  5. Additional Information

These steps ensure that applicants meet the necessary qualifications and legal requirements for obtaining a real estate license in Indiana.

Here are the Out-of-State Instructions

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, visit the official websites linked above.

Post-Licensing Education

Complete 30 hours of post-licensing education within the first two years of licensure. This education is necessary for maintaining your license.

Continuing Education

To maintain your license, complete 12 hours of continuing education every year before renewing your license. This includes mandatory courses and elective courses to stay updated with industry changes and legal requirements.

Indiana Real Estate Education Options

Online Options

Indiana offers a few great options for online real estate education, with two of the top schools providing digital courses. Colibri Real Estate stands out as a top recommendation, offering a comprehensive curriculum, excellent customer reviews, and a strong track record of helping students succeed on their exams.

For those seeking a more affordable option, The CE Shop is the budget-friendly choice, offering quality courses at a lower price point. Plus, you can take advantage of our exclusive 30% discount, which can be combined with their 20% military discount, making it an even better deal.

Both schools provide excellent value, but Colibri Real Estate may be a better fit for those who prefer a more thorough and structured learning experience. If budget is a bigger consideration, The CE Shop is still a fantastic option, offering solid support and a strong foundation to help you get started in real estate.

1. The CE Shop – Best Budget Course

The CE Shop is the most affordable option for real estate education in Indiana, providing a solid self-paced curriculum.

Pros

  • Most affordable: The 30% discount makes it the cheapest option.
  • Self-paced: Flexibility for students to study at their own speed.

Cons

  • Mixed reviews: Some students report engagement issues and customer service problems.
  • No live instruction: Entirely self-paced learning.

Get 30% off with Discount Code “INBOUNDREM” using our CE Shop discount link.

2. Colibri Real Estate

Colibri Real Estate provides flexible learning formats, including self-paced courses and live webinars, suitable for Indiana students.

Pros

  • Flexible formats: Self-paced and live webinars available.
  • Pass guarantee: Refund if you don’t pass the state exam.

Cons

  • Additional costs: Study resources may increase the total price.

Up to 15% off with our Colibri Real Estate discount link.

In-Person Options by Major Cities

Indianapolis:

Fort Wayne:

Evansville:

Reciprocity

Full Reciprocity

Indiana does not offer full reciprocity with any state.

Partial Reciprocity

Indiana offers partial reciprocity. If you hold an active real estate license in another state, you may qualify for a waiver of some of the pre-licensing education requirements.

You will still need to pass the Indiana state-specific portion of the real estate exam and fulfill other state-specific requirements.

For detailed information and required forms, visit the Indiana Real Estate Commission Reciprocity Information.

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Broker's License

To become a real estate broker in Indiana, you must:

  • Have at least two years of active real estate salesperson experience within the last five years
  • Complete 90 hours of broker pre-license education
  • Pass the Indiana Real Estate Broker Examination
  • Submit a broker license application to the Indiana Real Estate Commission

Criminal Record

The Indiana Real Estate Commission reviews applications from individuals with a criminal record on a case-by-case basis.

If you have a felony or other serious criminal conviction, you may still apply for a real estate license, but the Commission will consider the nature of the crime, the time elapsed since the conviction, and evidence of rehabilitation.

Crimes involving fraud, theft, or moral turpitude are particularly scrutinized. It’s recommended to contact the Indiana Real Estate Commission directly to discuss your specific circumstances and determine your eligibility.

Cost Breakdown

Item
Cost Range
Total
$813 – $1,513
Pre-License Education
$400 – $700
Exam Fee
$53
Background Check
$50 – $100
Application Fee
$60
Post-Licensing Education
$200 – $400
Continuing Education
$50 – $200 per cycle

Resources and Contacts

Document Checklist

  • Proof of age (ID, birth certificate)
  • Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident status
  • High school diploma or GED certificate
  • Completion certificates for 90 hours of pre-license courses
  • Exam pass notification from Pearson VUE
  • Fingerprint submission and background check confirmation
  • Completed application form for the Indiana Real Estate Commission
  • Payment for application fee

Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Real Estate Agent in Indiana

  1. Meet Basic Requirements: Ensure you are at least 18 years old, a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, and have a high school diploma or equivalent (GED).
  2. Complete Pre-License Education: Enroll in and complete 90 hours of pre-license courses approved by the Indiana Real Estate Commission.
  3. Schedule and Pass the Examination: Register for the Indiana Real Estate Salesperson Examination through Pearson VUE. Study for and pass the exam, ensuring you achieve a minimum score of 75% on both the national and state-specific portions. Pay the exam fee of $53.
  4. Submit to a Background Check: Arrange for fingerprinting and a criminal background check through an Indiana State Police-approved vendor. Ensure all required documentation is submitted to the Indiana Real Estate Commission.
  5. Submit Your Application: Complete and submit the real estate license application to the Indiana Real Estate Commission, including the application fee of $60.
  6. Find a Sponsoring Broker: To activate your license, find a licensed Indiana real estate broker to work under. This is required for both temporary and permanent licensure.
  7. Complete Post-Licensing Education: Within the first two years of obtaining your license, complete 30 hours of post-licensing education.
  8. Begin Your Real Estate Career: Once your license is issued, start your career as a licensed real estate agent in Indiana.
  9. Complete Continuing Education: Every year, complete 12 hours of continuing education, including mandatory and elective courses, to maintain and renew your license.

Indiana Real Estate Agent Salary

In Indiana, real estate agents earn an average salary of $91,126 per year, with a typical range from $35,000 to $165,000.

The median salary is $85,000, indicating a fairly even income distribution among agents.

Top performers, especially in areas like Indianapolis, can earn upwards of $180,000 annually.

The state’s real estate market is bolstered by a stable economy and affordable living costs, making it an attractive environment for agents.

This relatively low cost of living enhances the value of their earnings, offering a balanced income potential.

FAQs

Can I become a real estate agent in Indiana if I have a felony?

The Indiana Real Estate Commission reviews applications from individuals with a criminal record on a case-by-case basis. Certain felonies, particularly those involving fraud or moral turpitude, may disqualify you. Contact the Commission for specific inquiries.

How long does it take to become a real estate agent in Indiana?

It typically takes 3-6 months to complete the pre-license education, pass the exam, and obtain your license.

What is the cost to become a real estate agent in Indiana?

The total estimated cost ranges from $813 to $1,513, including education, exam fees, background checks, and application fees.

Does Indiana have reciprocity with other states?

Indiana does not offer full reciprocity but offers partial reciprocity with other states. You may need to pass the Indiana state-specific portion of the real estate exam and meet other requirements.

Summary

Becoming a real estate agent in Indiana involves meeting educational requirements, passing an exam, undergoing a background check, and completing post-license and continuing education.

By following these steps and utilizing the provided resources, you can successfully start and maintain your real estate career in Indiana.

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Disclosure: Some of these links are affiliate links that give us a commission at no extra cost to you. In some cases, you can even receive discounts via our links. If you found our content helpful, please use them.

We have an agreement with The CE Shop to promote online course information to consumers and real estate licensees. We are not the developer of these courses and is simply providing a referral. All education is provided by The CE Shop and any questions regarding course content or course technology should be directed to The CE Shop.

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