How to Become a Real Estate Agent in Missouri

how to become a real estate agent
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Table of Contents

Missouri Real Estate Licenses

This comprehensive guide to obtaining a Missouri real estate license provides all the necessary steps and requirements, including real estate continuing education.

It caters to everyone in Missouri, with additional resources for those in Kansas City (MO) and other major areas.

We cover the best real estate classes and online courses available, ensuring you have access to the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in Missouri’s real estate market.

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 Missouri, 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, Missouri 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 72 hours of pre-license education through courses approved by the Missouri Real Estate Commission (MREC). These courses include:

  • Salesperson Pre-Examination Course (48 hours)
  • Missouri Real Estate Practice Course (24 hours)

Examination

Missouri Real Estate Exam Details

Exam Structure

  • Total Questions: 140 multiple-choice questions
    • National Portion: 100 questions
    • State-Specific Portion: 40 questions
  • Time Limit: 4 hours total
  • Passing Score: 70% on each section

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 Missouri Real Estate Exam is considered moderately challenging, requiring thorough preparation to pass both the national and state-specific portions.

Required Forms and Documents

  1. Pre-License Education Certificate
    • Proof of completing the required 48 hours of pre-license education from an approved provider.
  2. Initial License Application
  3. Exam Authorization
    • Once your application is approved, you will receive authorization to register for the exam with PSI.
  4. Application Fee
    • The fee is $90, payable when you submit your license application.

Background Check

  1. Fingerprinting
    • Approved Vendor: Schedule an appointment for fingerprinting through IdentoGO, which is the approved vendor for Missouri.
    • Cost: The fee is approximately $41.75, payable directly to the vendor.
  2. Submission
  3. Processing

Application

After passing the exam and completing the background check, submit your license application to the Missouri Real Estate Commission.

  • Application Fee: $90

Post-Licensing Education

Missouri does not require post-licensing education for new real estate agents.

Continuing Education

Total Hours Required: 12 hours every two years.

  • Core Education: 3 hours of core education, which must cover legal or ethical topics as prescribed by the Missouri Real Estate Commission (MREC). Topics typically include:
    • Missouri real estate law
    • Brokerage relationships
    • License law
    • Ethical practices in real estate
  • Elective Education: 9 hours of elective courses, which can cover a wide range of real estate topics, such as:
    • Property management
    • Marketing strategies
    • Environmental issues in real estate
    • Real estate financing
  • Course Providers: Courses must be taken from MREC-approved providers. Licensees can choose to complete their continuing education through in-person classes, online courses, or a combination of both.
  • Reporting and Compliance: Licensees are required to complete their continuing education by September 30th of their renewal year. Proof of completion must be submitted to the (MREC). Failure to meet the continuing education requirements may result in penalties or suspension of the license.

Missouri Real Estate Education Options

Online Options

Missouri offers a variety of excellent online real estate education options, with many of the top providers offering flexible digital courses. Kaplan stands out as the best choice, outpacing Colibri with its impressive pass rates, high customer satisfaction, and exceptional course content.

If you’re interested in other options, we’ve also secured special discounts for additional programs. The CE Shop is the most budget-friendly choice, and by combining our 30% discount with their 20% military discount, you can maximize your savings.

While all the courses are competitively priced, Kaplan remains our top recommendation due to its stellar reputation and high success rates. If you’re looking to give your real estate career the best possible start, Kaplan is definitely worth considering.

1. The CE Shop – Best Budget Course

The CE Shop is the most affordable option for real estate education in Missouri, 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. Kaplan Real Estate

Kaplan Real Estate offers a structured learning experience for Missouri students, with live online and self-paced formats.

Pros

  • Multiple formats: Offers live online classes and self-paced options.
  • Experienced instructors: Known for delivering high-quality education.

Cons

  • Higher cost: More expensive than budget options, but justified for quality.

Get 10% off with our Kaplan Real Estate discount link.

3. Colibri Real Estate

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

Kansas City:

Saint Louis:

Springfield:

Reciprocity

Full Reciprocity

Missouri offers full reciprocity with the following states:

  • Alabama
  • Iowa
  • Kansas
  • Louisiana
  • Nebraska
  • South Dakota

If you hold an active real estate license in one of these states, you can apply for a Missouri real estate license without additional education or examination requirements. You must submit an application and pass a background check.

Partial Reciprocity

Missouri offers partial reciprocity with other states. 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 Missouri state-specific portion of the real estate exam and fulfill other state-specific requirements.

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

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Broker's License

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

  • Have at least two years of active real estate salesperson experience within the last five years
  • Complete 48 hours of broker pre-license education
  • Pass the Missouri Real Estate Broker Examination
  • Submit a broker license application to the Missouri Real Estate Commission

Criminal Record

The Missouri 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 Missouri Real Estate Commission directly to discuss your specific circumstances and determine your eligibility.

Cost Breakdown

Item
Cost Range
Total
$652 – $1,152
Pre-License Education
$400 – $700
Exam Fee
$62
Background Check
$50 – $100
Application Fee
$90
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 72 hours of pre-license courses
  • Exam pass notification from PSI
  • Fingerprint submission and background check confirmation
  • Completed application form for the Missouri Real Estate Commission
  • Payment for application fee

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

  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 72 hours of pre-license courses approved by the Missouri Real Estate Commission.
  3. Schedule and Pass the Examination: Register for the Missouri Real Estate Salesperson Examination through PSI. 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 $62.
  4. Submit to a Background Check: Arrange for fingerprinting and a criminal background check through a Missouri State Highway Patrol-approved vendor. Ensure all required documentation is submitted to the Missouri Real Estate Commission.
  5. Submit Your Application: Complete and submit the real estate license application to the Missouri Real Estate Commission, including the application fee of $90.
  6. Find a Sponsoring Broker: To activate your license, find a licensed Missouri real estate broker to work under. This is required for both temporary and permanent licensure.
  7. Begin Your Real Estate Career: Once your license is issued, start your career as a licensed real estate agent in Missouri.
  8. Complete Continuing Education: Every two years, complete 12 hours of continuing education, including mandatory and elective courses, to maintain and renew your license.

Missouri Real Estate Agent Salary

In Missouri, real estate agents earn an average salary of $72,444 per year, with a typical range between $30,000 and $130,000.

The median salary is around $70,000, indicating a consistent distribution of earnings. Top agents, especially in markets like Kansas City and St. Louis, can earn upwards of $160,000 annually.

Missouri’s diverse real estate market, spanning urban and rural areas, provides varied opportunities for agents.

The state’s low cost of living further enhances the value of these earnings, making it an attractive market for real estate professionals.

FAQs

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

The Missouri 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 Missouri?

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 Missouri?

The total estimated cost ranges from $652 to $1,152, including education, exam fees, background checks, and application fees.

Does Missouri have reciprocity with other states?

Missouri has full reciprocity with several states and partial reciprocity with others. You may need to pass the Missouri state-specific portion of the real estate exam and meet other requirements.

Summary

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

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

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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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