What types of real estate licenses does Illinois offer?

Illinois offers Broker, Managing Broker, and Residential Leasing Agent licenses. The Broker license requires a minimum age of 18. The Managing Broker license requires a minimum age of 20 and 24 months of experience. The Residential Leasing Agent license requires a minimum age of 18.

How often do you need to renew your Illinois real estate license?

Illinois real estate licenses must be renewed every 2 years. Renewal requires 12 hours of continuing education.

Does Illinois offer real estate license reciprocity?

Illinois has reciprocity agreements with 8 states: Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, and Nebraska. If you hold a license in one of these states, you may be exempt from some pre-licensing education requirements. You will still need to pass the Illinois-specific exam.

What's a Sponsoring Broker in Illinois?

Illinois uses "Sponsoring Broker" terminology for the broker who supervises a licensed Broker (Illinois's entry-level licensee). The relationship is similar to a sponsoring broker in other states, but Illinois renamed entry-level licensees from "Salesperson" to "Broker" in 2010. So in Illinois: - **Broker** = entry-level licensee (formerly Salesperson) - **Managing Broker** = supervisor and licensed broker - **Sponsoring Broker** = the broker who sponsors a Broker's license

Do I need a sponsoring broker before taking the IL exam?

No. You can take the exam without a Sponsoring Broker, but you cannot activate your license without one.

How long until I get my IL license after passing?

IDFPR processes complete applications within 2-4 weeks.

What's the post-licensing requirement?

Illinois Brokers must complete 30 hours of post-licensing education within the first 2 years.

How to Get Your Illinois Real Estate License

Total Cost to Get Licensed in Illinois

Pre-licensing education (75 hrs)	$400-$800
Exam fee	$55
License application fee	$125
Background check	$50
Total estimate	$630-$1030

Most candidates are licensed within 4-10 weeks of passing the exam.

Your Path to Illinois Real Estate

Follow the progression from entry-level to advanced licensure.

Broker

Residential Leasing Agent

Managing Broker

Broker License

Who is this for?

This license is ideal for individuals new to real estate who want to start their career helping clients buy and sell property To obtain a Broker license, you must be sponsored by a licensed broker or brokerage firm.

Requirements

Age18+

ExperienceEntry-Level

SponsorshipRequired

Your Exam

Questions140

Time4h

Format100 Nat + 40 State

Passing Score Progress70%

You need roughly 100 out of 140 questions correct to pass.

Renewal: Every 2 years • 12 CE hours required

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Direct upgrade available

Residential Leasing Agent License

Who is this for?

This license is ideal for individuals who only want to handle residential leasing/rental transactions rather than sales To obtain a Residential Leasing Agent license, you must be sponsored by a licensed broker or brokerage firm.

Requirements

Age18+

ExperienceEntry-Level

SponsorshipRequired

Your Exam

Questions50

Time2h

Format50 State

Passing Score Progress74%

You need roughly 37 out of 50 questions correct to pass.

Renewal: Every 2 years • 12 CE hours required

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To upgrade: 2 years experience, reach age 20, no sponsorship needed

Managing Broker License

Who is this for?

This license is ideal for experienced professionals who want to manage a brokerage office and supervise other agents

Requirements

Age20+

Experience2 years

SponsorshipNot needed

Your Exam

Questions50

Time1h 30m

Format50 State

Passing Score Progress75%

You need roughly 38 out of 50 questions correct to pass.

Renewal: Every 2 years • 12 CE hours required

Illinois Real Estate License Reciprocity

Illinois has partial reciprocity agreements with select states. Agents licensed in a recognized state may qualify to skip some pre-licensing education, but must still pass the Illinois-specific state exam.

States accepted by Illinois (8 states)

Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Nebraska

States that recognize Illinois licenses

Alabama, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Kansas, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, Virginia, Wisconsin

Reciprocity rules change. Verify current requirements with each state's real estate commission before applying.

Illinois Licensing FAQ

Requirements done? The exam is the last gate.

98.4% of our students pass the Illinois exam on the first try. Try 5 free Illinois questions.

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