To become a REALTOR®, you must first become a licensed real estate agent.
Step 1: Complete your required education
You must have a high school diploma or equivalent and successfully complete 120 hours of approved real estate education within a ten-year time frame immediately preceding your application. This education must be completed at an institution of higher education that awards a degree in at least a two-year program and education must consist of the following: 40 hours of Real Estate Principles and Practices, 40 hours of Ohio Real Estate Law (including instruction in civil rights, housing discrimination and desegregation problems, 20 hours of Real Estate Appraisal, and 20 hours of Real Estate Finance.
Step 2: Obtain a sponsoring Broker
To be licensed, you must be associated with and sponsored by a current and active Ohio Broker. It's important to find the right Broker to work with since this person will serve as your mentor as you start your new career in real estate. Read more on finding the right Broker.
Step 3: Complete and submit the real estate license application
You must submit a completed Salesperson Examination Application, a small fee, and proof that you completed your education requirements to the Ohio Division of Real Estate & Professional Licensing. (You may either submit a copy of your official transcripts or course completion certificates.) Once the division processes a complete application, your information is sent to a testing vendor and they will process the information and send you instructions on how to schedule your exam. The applicant must also complete a criminal records check of both state & FBI records. Information on performing a background check can be found on the Salesperson Examination Application. Please contact the division for further information.
Step 4: Schedule and pass the Ohio real estate salesperson exam
The 120-question test has two portions covering both state and national requirements. You will have 180 minutes to complete the exam, 120 minutes to complete 80 questions for the national portion and 60 minutes for the 40 question state portion. Do you need help passing your Ohio real estate exam? The CE Shop and Hondros both offer comprehensive Exam Prep tailored to Ohio.
