Oregon Real Estate Licenses
Looking to secure an Oregon real estate license? This guide covers all the necessary steps and requirements, including real estate continuing education.
It’s applicable to everyone in Oregon, with specific resources highlighted for residents of Portland (OR).
We explore the best real estate classes and online courses, providing you with comprehensive resources to succeed in Oregon’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 Oregon, 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, Oregon 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 150 hours of pre-license education through courses approved by the Oregon Real Estate Agency (OREA). These courses include:
- Real Estate Practices (30 hours)
- Real Estate Law (30 hours)
- Agency Law (10 hours)
- Contracts (10 hours)
- Real Estate Finance (30 hours)
- Property Management (20 hours)
- Brokerage (20 hours)
Examination
Oregon Real Estate Exam Details
Exam Structure
- Total Questions: 150 multiple-choice questions
- National Portion: 100 questions
- State-Specific Portion: 50 questions
- Time Limit: 3 hours total (2.5 hours for national portion, 1.5 hours for state portion)
- Passing Score: 75% on each section
Registration and Fees
- Exam Fee: $75, payable when scheduling the exam through PSI Services.
- Registration: After completing your 150 hours of pre-licensing education, submit your application to the Oregon Real Estate Agency (OREA). Upon approval, register for the exam through PSI Services.
Identification Documents
- Required ID: 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 Oregon Real Estate Exam is moderately challenging, with a passing rate of around 50-60%. Thorough preparation is recommended to ensure success on both the national and state-specific portions.
Required Forms and Documents
- Pre-License Education Certificate
- Proof of completing 150 hours of pre-license education from an accredited provider is required.
- Initial License Application
- Submit your initial license application through the Oregon Real Estate Agency (OREA) after completing pre-licensing education.
- Application Fee
- The fee is $300, payable when submitting your license application.
Background Check
- Fingerprinting
- Approved Vendor: Fingerprinting must be completed through Fieldprint, the approved vendor for Oregon.
- Cost: The fingerprinting fee is approximately $63, payable to Fieldprint.
- Submission
- The fingerprint results will be sent directly to the Oregon Real Estate Agency as part of your application.
- Processing
- The Oregon Real Estate Agency reviews the background check results. The background check must be completed within 12 months before submitting your license application.
Application
After passing the exam and completing the background check, submit your license application to the Oregon Real Estate Agency.
- Application Fee: $300
Post-Licensing Education
30-Hour Post-Licensing Course
- Timeframe: New real estate brokers in Oregon are required to complete a 30-hour post-licensing course within the first 12 months of licensure.
- Course Content: The post-licensing course covers essential topics, including:
- Oregon Real Estate Law and Regulations
- Agency Relationships and Responsibilities
- Contracts and Negotiation Skills
- Ethics and Professional Conduct
- Risk Management
Approved Providers
- The post-licensing course must be completed through an education provider approved by the Oregon Real Estate Agency (OREA).
Submission
- Proof of course completion must be submitted to the OREA before the 12-month deadline to keep your license active.
Continuing Education
Total Hours Required: 30 hours of continuing education every two years.
- Core Courses (9 hours)
- The 9 hours of core courses must include the Law and Rule Required Course (LARRC), which provides updates on Oregon real estate laws and regulations.
- Elective Courses (21 hours)
- Real Estate Marketing and Technology
- Financing and Mortgages
- Environmental Regulations and Property Inspections
- Property Management and Leasing Laws
- Ethics in Real Estate
Approved Providers
- Continuing education courses must be completed through an OREA-approved provider. For a list of approved vendors, visit the OREA website.
Submission
- After completing the required 30 hours of CE, you must submit proof of completion to the Oregon Real Estate Agency online portal.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
- Inactive License: If you fail to meet the CE requirements within the two-year period, your license will be placed on inactive status, preventing you from conducting real estate transactions.
- Reactivation: To reactivate your license, you must complete the required continuing education hours and submit proof to the OREA.
Oregon Real Estate Education Options
Online Options
Oregon’s got some solid choices for online real estate education, with 3 out of the 4 major schools offering digital courses.
Out of these, Kaplan takes the top spot by a margin over Colibri. They’ve got great pass rates, super happy students, and really top-notch educational materials.
But if you’re curious about other options, we’ve lined up some great discounts for those as well. If you’re on a tighter budget, The CE Shop is worth a look, especially since you can possibly combine our 30% discount with their 20% military discount for some extra savings.
All in all, while most courses are pretty affordable, we still recommend Kaplan for its unbeatable quality and success rates. If you’re aiming for the best, Kaplan’s your go-to for starting your real estate journey.
1. The CE Shop – Best Budget Course
The CE Shop is the most affordable option for real estate education in OR, 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 – Best Overall Course
Kaplan Real Estate offers a structured learning experience for Oregon 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.
4. Colibri Real Estate
Colibri Real Estate provides flexible learning formats, including self-paced courses and live webinars, suitable for Oregon 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
Portland:
- Portland Real Estate School: Offers in-person pre-licensing and continuing education courses.
- Portland Community College: Provides in-person real estate courses, including pre-licensing education.
Salem:
- Oregon School of Real Estate: Offers in-person pre-licensing and continuing education classes.
- Chemeketa Community College: Provides in-person real estate education.
Eugene:
- University of Oregon Continuing and Professional Education: Offers a variety of in-person educational courses for pre-licensing and continuing education.
Reciprocity
Full Reciprocity
Oregon does not offer full reciprocity with any state.
Partial Reciprocity
Oregon 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 Oregon state-specific portion of the real estate exam and fulfill other state-specific requirements.
For detailed information and required forms, visit the Oregon Real Estate Agency Reciprocity Information.
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Broker's License
To become a real estate broker in Oregon, you must:
- Have at least three years of active real estate salesperson experience within the last five years
- Complete 150 hours of broker pre-license education
- Pass the Oregon Real Estate Broker Examination
- Submit a broker license application to the Oregon Real Estate Agency
Criminal Record
The Oregon Real Estate Agency 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 Agency 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 Oregon Real Estate Agency directly to discuss your specific circumstances and determine your eligibility.
Cost Breakdown
Item | Cost Range |
|---|---|
Total | $1,175 – $1,875 |
Pre-License Education | $500 – $800 |
Exam Fee | $75 |
Background Check | $50 – $100 |
Application Fee | $300 |
Post-Licensing Education | $200 – $400 |
Continuing Education | $50 – $200 per cycle |
Resources and Contacts
- Oregon Real Estate Agency:
- Street Address: 530 Center St. NE Suite 100, Salem, OR 97301
- Telephone: (503) 378-4170
- Fax: (503) 378-3256
- Email: orea.info@rea.oregon.gov
- License Renewal Website
- License Lookup Website
- CE Requirements
- 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 150 hours of pre-license courses
- Exam pass notification from PSI
- Fingerprint submission and background check confirmation
- Completed application form for the Oregon Real Estate Agency
- Payment for application fee
Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Real Estate Agent in Oregon
- 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 150 hours of pre-license courses approved by the Oregon Real Estate Agency.
- Schedule and Pass the Examination: Register for the Oregon Real Estate Broker 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 $75.
- Submit to a Background Check: Arrange for fingerprinting and a criminal background check through an Oregon State Police-approved vendor. Ensure all required documentation is submitted to the Oregon Real Estate Agency.
- Submit Your Application: Complete and submit the real estate license application to the Oregon Real Estate Agency, including the application fee of $300.
- Find a Sponsoring Broker: To activate your license, find a licensed Oregon 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 30 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 Oregon.
- Complete Continuing Education: Every two years, complete 30 hours of continuing education, including mandatory and elective courses, to maintain and renew your license.
Oregon Real Estate Agent Salary
In Oregon, real estate agents earn an average salary of $77,219 per year, with typical earnings ranging from $35,000 to $145,000.
The median salary is around $72,000, suggesting a balanced income distribution. Top agents, particularly in high-demand areas like Portland, can earn upwards of $180,000 annually.
Oregon’s real estate market is characterized by strong demand and high property values, offering substantial earning potential.
The state’s moderate cost of living, compared to its high-income areas, enhances the overall value of these earnings, making it a desirable market for real estate professionals.
FAQs
Can I become a real estate agent in Oregon if I have a felony?
The Oregon Real Estate Agency 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 Agency for specific inquiries.
How long does it take to become a real estate agent in Oregon?
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 Oregon?
The total estimated cost ranges from $975 to $1,475, including education, exam fees, background checks, and application fees.
Does Oregon have reciprocity with other states?
Oregon does not offer full reciprocity but offers partial reciprocity with other states. You may need to pass the Oregon state-specific portion of the real estate exam and meet other requirements.
Summary
Becoming a real estate agent in Oregon 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 Oregon.
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