Illinois Real Estate Broker License
Requirements, fees, and steps to upgrade to broker
Experience Requirements
No prior experience required for broker license
Alternative Pathways:
Managing brokers require 2+ years of active broker experience and 45 additional education hours.
Education Requirements
Complete 75 hours of pre-license education from an IDFPR-approved school. Can be completed online.
Required Courses:
- 75 hours of IDFPR-approved pre-licensing education
New brokers must complete 45 hours of post-licensing education within first 2 years.
Broker Examination
Exam Name
Illinois Real Estate Broker Examination
Provider
PSI
Format
National section (100 questions, 150 min) and state section (40 questions, 90 min), 3.5 hours total
Passing Score
Scaled score of 75 or higher on each section
Exam Fee
$58
Retake Policy
Can retake upon failure; passed exams valid for 1 year
Fees
| Application Fee | $150 |
| Examination Fee | $58 |
| Background Check | $60 |
| Total | $268 |
Does not include pre-licensing course costs ($300-$650) or post-licensing education ($200-$300).
Timeline
Complete Pre-License Education
Complete 75 hours of approved coursework
4-6 weeks
Prepare for Exam
Study and prepare for state examination
1-3 weeks
Pass Broker Exam
Take and pass the PSI broker examination
1-2 weeks
Find Sponsoring Broker
Secure sponsorship from a licensed managing broker
1-4 weeks
Submit Application
Apply for broker license with IDFPR
1-3 days
License Renewal
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Renewal Fee
$150
CE Hours Required
12 hours
Online Renewal
Available
12 hours of continuing education required for renewal every 2 years.
Reciprocity Agreements
Illinois has reciprocity agreements with other states.
Starting January 1, 2026, all brokers and managing brokers seeking licensure from outside Illinois will apply via an Endorsement Process which replaces the previous reciprocal process.
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
- Official Website
- (888) 473-4858
Quick Tools
Not a Broker Yet?
Start with an agent license if you don't have the required experience.
Illinois Agent License →