Iowa Real Estate Licenses
This guide is your complete resource for obtaining an Iowa real estate license, covering all essential requirements, including real estate continuing education.
It’s applicable to everyone across the state, with a focus on major cities like Des Moines (IA).
We explore the best real estate classes and online courses available, ensuring you have access to top-quality education and training resources throughout Iowa.
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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 Iowa, 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, Iowa 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 60 hours of pre-license education through courses approved by the Iowa Real Estate Commission (IREC). These courses include:
- Real Estate Principles and Practices (60 hours)
Additionally, you must complete the following courses before applying for your license:
- Developing Professionalism and Ethical Practices (12 hours)
- Buying Practices (12 hours)
- Listing Practices (12 hours)
- Real Estate Law and Agency (12 hours)
Iowa Real Estate Exam Details
Exam Structure
- Total Questions: 120 multiple-choice questions
- National Portion: 80 questions
- State-Specific Portion: 40 questions
- Time Limit: 3.5 hours
- Passing Score: 70% on each section
Registration and Fees
- Exam Fee: $95, payable when scheduling the exam
- Registration: Register for the exam through PSI Services and download the Candidate Handbook from the Iowa Real Estate Commission website.
Identification Documents
- Candidates must bring two forms of identification on exam day, including a government-issued photo ID with a signature (such as a driver’s license or passport).
Exam Difficulty and Passing Rates
The Iowa Real Estate Exam is considered moderately challenging, with a passing rate of about 70%. It requires a solid understanding of both national real estate principles and Iowa-specific regulations.
Required Forms and Documents
- Application: Submit the application through the Iowa Real Estate Commission along with the required fees.
- Additional Forms: Include proof of completed pre-licensing education and other necessary documentation.
Background Check Process for Iowa Real Estate License
Submission of Application
- Submit your license application through the Iowa Professional Licensing Bureau (PLB) My Iowa PLB portal. Here’s the Registration Page.
Fingerprinting
- Request Packet: Request a fingerprint packet electronically through the “General – Background Packet Request” application on the My Iowa PLB portal. There is no fee for the packet.
- Fingerprinting: Use the fingerprint card provided by the Iowa Real Estate Commission. Fingerprinting can be done at local police stations or other approved locations. It’s advisable to call ahead to verify availability, costs, and accepted payment methods.
- Fee: Submit a $51 fee with the completed fingerprint card and waiver form to the Iowa Real Estate Commission.
Processing
- The fingerprints are sent to the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) and the FBI for a thorough background check. The process can take 8-10 weeks. Results are valid for 210 days from the date of completion.
Review and Approval
- The Iowa Real Estate Commission reviews the background check results as part of the licensure application. You do not need to wait for the background check to be completed before applying for your license.
These steps ensure that applicants meet all necessary qualifications and legal requirements to obtain a real estate license in Iowa.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, refer to the Iowa Real Estate Commission’s website and the Iowa Association of Realtors.
Application
After passing the exam and completing the background check, submit your license application to the Iowa Real Estate Commission.
- Application Fee: $125
Post-Licensing Education
Additional Courses: After passing the exam, applicants must complete an additional 36 hours of post-licensing education within the first 12 months of licensure. This includes:
- 12 hours of Buying Practices
- 12 hours of Listing Practices
- 12 hours of Developing Professionalism and Ethical Practices
Application for License
- License Application: Once the post-licensing education is completed, apply for your Iowa Real Estate Salesperson License through the Iowa Real Estate Commission.
Continuing Education
To maintain your license, complete 36 hours of continuing education every three years before renewing your license. This includes mandatory courses and elective courses to stay updated with industry changes and legal requirements.
Iowa Real Estate Education Options
Online Options
Iowa offers a range of great options for online real estate education, with two of the leading providers offering digital courses. Colibri Real Estate is a top recommendation, known for its comprehensive curriculum, excellent student reviews, and strong success rate in helping students pass their exams.
For those looking for a more cost-effective option, The CE Shop is a budget-friendly alternative, delivering high-quality courses at a more affordable price. Plus, you can take advantage of our exclusive 30% discount, which can be combined with their 20% military discount, giving you even greater savings.
Both schools provide strong value, but Colibri Real Estate stands out for those seeking a more in-depth and structured learning experience.
If keeping costs low is your priority, The CE Shop remains an excellent choice, offering solid support and a great foundation for starting your real estate career.
1. The CE Shop – Best Budget Course
The CE Shop is the most affordable option for real estate education in Iowa, 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 Iowa 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
Des Moines:
- Des Moines Area Community College: Offers in-person pre-licensing and continuing education courses.
- Iowa Association of REALTORS®: Provides in-person real estate courses, including pre-licensing education.
Cedar Rapids:
- Kirkwood Community College: Offers in-person pre-licensing and continuing education classes.
- Cedar Rapids Area Association of REALTORS®: Provides in-person real estate education.
Davenport:
- Eastern Iowa Community Colleges: Offers a variety of in-person educational courses for pre-licensing and continuing education.
Reciprocity
Full Reciprocity
Iowa does not offer full reciprocity with any state.
Partial Reciprocity
Iowa 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 Iowa state-specific portion of the real estate exam and fulfill other state-specific requirements.
For detailed information and required forms, visit the Iowa Real Estate Commission Reciprocity Information.
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Broker's License
To become a real estate broker in Iowa, you must:
- Have at least two years of active real estate salesperson experience within the last five years
- Complete 72 hours of broker pre-license education
- Pass the Iowa Real Estate Broker Examination
- Submit a broker license application to the Iowa Real Estate Commission
Criminal Record
The Iowa 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 Iowa Real Estate Commission directly to discuss your specific circumstances and determine your eligibility.
Cost Breakdown
Item | Cost Range |
|---|---|
Total | $920 – $1,620 |
Pre-License Education | $400 – $700 |
Exam Fee | $95 |
Background Check | $50 – $100 |
Application Fee | $125 |
Post-Licensing Education | $200 – $400 |
Continuing Education | $50 – $200 per cycle |
Resources and Contacts
- Iowa Real Estate Commission:
- Street Address: 6200 Park Avenue, Suite 100, Des Moines, IA 50321
- Telephone: (515) 725-9022
- Email: RealEstateCommission@iowa.gov
- Contact IA Real Estate Commission
- License Information
- Renewal and Continuing Education Information
- Exam Information
- PSI Examination Services: (800) 733-9267
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 60 hours of pre-license courses and additional required courses
- Exam pass notification from Pearson VUE
- Fingerprint submission and background check confirmation
- Completed application form for the Iowa Real Estate Commission
- Payment for application fee
Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Real Estate Agent in Iowa
- 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).
- Complete Pre-License Education: Enroll in and complete 60 hours of pre-license courses approved by the Iowa Real Estate Commission, along with the additional 48 hours of required courses.
- Schedule and Pass the Examination: Register for the Iowa Real Estate Salesperson Examination through PSI. Study for and pass the exam, ensuring you achieve a minimum score of 70% on both the national and state-specific portions. Pay the exam fee of $95.
- Submit to a Background Check: Arrange for fingerprinting and a criminal background check through an Iowa Department of Public Safety-approved vendor. Ensure all required documentation is submitted to the Iowa Real Estate Commission.
- Submit Your Application: Complete and submit the real estate license application to the Iowa Real Estate Commission, including the application fee of $125.
- Find a Sponsoring Broker: To activate your license, find a licensed Iowa real estate broker to work under. This is required for both temporary and permanent licensure.
- Complete Post-Licensing Education: Within the first year of obtaining your license, complete 36 hours of post-licensing education.
- Begin Your Real Estate Career: Once your license is issued, start your career as a licensed real estate agent in Iowa.
- Complete Continuing Education: Every three years, complete 36 hours of continuing education, including mandatory and elective courses, to maintain and renew your license.
Iowa Real Estate Agent Salary
In Iowa, real estate agents earn an average salary of $95,278 per year, with typical earnings ranging from $40,000 to $175,000.
The median salary is $90,000, suggesting a consistent income distribution. Top agents, particularly in more populous areas like Des Moines, can make over $200,000 annually.
Iowa’s real estate market is characterized by steady growth and a low cost of living, which makes the earnings more substantial.
The balance between income and living expenses provides a favorable economic environment for real estate professionals.
FAQs
Can I become a real estate agent in Iowa if I have a felony?
The Iowa 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 Iowa?
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 Iowa?
The total estimated cost ranges from $920 to $1,620, including education, exam fees, background checks, and application fees.
Does Iowa have reciprocity with other states?
Iowa does not offer full reciprocity but offers partial reciprocity with other states. You may need to pass the Iowa state-specific portion of the real estate exam and meet other requirements.
Summary
Becoming a real estate agent in Iowa 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 Iowa.
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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.