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Ohio Real Estate License Requirements

Getting your Ohio real estate license requires completing 120 hours of state-approved education, passing the official exam, finding a sponsoring brokerage, and submitting your application. The entire process typically takes between seven and fourteen weeks, depending on your personal schedule and how quickly you move through the required steps. This guide provides everything you need to know to become a licensed real estate agent in Ohio.

Quick Ohio License Facts

Requirement

Details

Education Hours

120 hours (Four required courses)

Estimated Timeline

7-14 weeks, varies by study schedule

Age Requirement

18+ years old

Background Check

Required

Exam Format

Computer-based, multiple-choice

Official Body

Ohio Division of Real Estate & Professional Licensing

Disclaimer: Always verify current requirements with the Ohio Division of Real Estate & Professional Licensing.

How to Get Your Ohio Real Estate License in 4 Steps

Step 1: Complete 120 Hours of Pre-License Education

Ohio requires aspiring agents to complete 120 hours of coursework from an approved educational provider. The curriculum is broken down into four specific courses.

Required Courses:

  • Real Estate Principles and Practices (40 hours)
  • Ohio Real Estate Law (40 hours)
  • Real Estate Appraisal (20 hours)
  • Real Estate Finance (20 hours)

Study Schedule Considerations: The time it takes to complete your education depends on your available study hours and preferred learning pace. Self-paced online courses offer flexibility, while structured classes can keep you on a consistent schedule.

Step 2: Pass the Ohio Real Estate Exam

After completing your coursework, you must pass the Ohio Real Estate Salesperson Exam, which is administered by a third-party testing vendor (typically PSI).

  • Format: Computer-based test with separate national and state-specific sections.
  • Passing Score: You must achieve a score of 70% or higher on each section.
  • Exam Topics Include:
  • Ohio real estate law and license regulations
  • Property ownership and land use controls
  • Contracts, agency, and fiduciary duties
  • Property valuation and finance
  • Federal and state housing laws

Always check with the Ohio Division of Real Estate and its testing vendor for the most current exam details, fees, and scheduling information.

Step 3: Submit Your License Application & Background Check

  • Application: Once you pass the state exam, you can submit your official license application.
  • Background Check: You must complete a criminal background check (both BCI and FBI) and have the results sent to the Ohio Division of Real Estate.
  • Fees: Pay all required application and licensing fees.
  • Disclosure: Ohio law requires full disclosure of any past criminal convictions. Applications are reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

Step 4: Find a Sponsoring Broker

In Ohio, a real estate salesperson must work under the supervision of a licensed broker. Your sponsoring broker is responsible for overseeing your work and providing guidance as you begin your career.

  • Broker Role: Your broker provides essential training, mentorship, and legal oversight for all transactions.
  • Finding a Broker: Research local brokerages to find one that aligns with your career goals, offers a supportive training environment, and has a commission structure that works for you.

Ohio Real Estate License Costs

The total cost to get your license in Ohio can vary, but here is a general breakdown of the primary expenses.

Expense Category

Estimated Cost Range

Notes

Pre-License Education

$350 – $550

Varies significantly by school and package (online vs. in-person).

State Application Fee

~$81

Set by the Ohio Division of Real Estate.

Exam Fee

~$65

Paid to the testing vendor for both state and national portions.

Background Check Fee

~$75

Varies by location; includes both BCI & FBI checks.

Total Estimated Cost

$571 – $771

Does not include optional materials or post-license business costs.

Note: These are estimates. Always check the official Ohio Division of Real Estate website and your chosen school/vendor for the most current fee schedules.

Ongoing Costs to Consider:

  • License Renewal: Your license must be renewed every three years.
  • Continuing Education: Required for every renewal cycle.
  • MLS Fees: Varies by local board/association.
  • Errors & Omissions (E&O) Insurance: Often required by your broker.
  • Professional Association Dues: Optional but recommended fees for joining local, state, and national Realtor® associations.
Ohio Real Estate License Cost Breakdown

Estimated Initial Licensing Costs in Ohio

A visual breakdown of typical startup expenses for an Ohio license.

Disclaimer: These figures are estimates for 2025 and can vary significantly based on the school chosen, location for the background check, and optional materials purchased. Always check official sources for the most current fees.

Ohio Real Estate Schools

When selecting a real estate school, consider factors like learning format, support services, pricing, and student reviews. Here are some well-known state-approved providers for Ohio:

  • The CE Shop
  • Benefits: Offers a 40% military discount and a free trial.
  • Website: theceshop.com
  • Colibri Real Estate
  • Benefits: Features a “Pass or Don’t Pay” guarantee and offers both livestream and self-paced options.
  • Website: colibrirealestate.com
  • Hondros College
  • Benefits: An Ohio-based school with multiple physical locations and hosts career fairs for students.
  • Website: hondros.com

School Selection Tips:

  • Compare current pricing and package options.
  • Read recent student reviews and pass rates.
  • Consider your preferred learning style (online, in-person, hybrid).
  • Check for pass guarantees or money-back options.
  • Verify military discounts if applicable.
  • Ensure the school is approved by the Ohio Division of Real Estate.

Contact schools directly for current pricing, promotions, and specific features.

Ohio Real Estate Exam Preparation

Study Strategies for Success

  • Set a consistent study schedule and stick to it.
  • Focus on understanding the core concepts, not just memorizing terms.
  • Take as many practice exams as possible to identify your weak areas.
  • Pay close attention to Ohio-specific laws and regulations.
  • Give yourself adequate time for review after completing your courses.

Key Areas to Master

  • Real estate math and financial calculations.
  • Agency relationships and fiduciary duties.
  • Ohio’s specific disclosure requirements.
  • Contract law and purchase agreements.
  • Fair housing regulations.

Common Study Mistakes to Avoid

    • Cramming all 120 hours of material at the last minute.
    • Neglecting to take full-length, timed practice exams.
    • Not focusing enough on the state-specific portion of the exam.
    • Poor time management during the actual test.

Success Timeline by Professional Background

Different professional backgrounds can provide unique advantages on your path to becoming an agent:

  • Sales Professionals: Your experience with client relationships, negotiation, and commission-based income can give you a significant head start.
  • Teachers and Educators: Your strong study habits, ability to explain complex topics, and patience will be invaluable.
  • Military and Veterans: Your discipline, reliability, and understanding of the relocation process (especially VA loans) are major assets.
  • Career Changers: While you may need more time to learn industry concepts, your transferable skills and fresh perspective are highly valuable.

Individual results vary regardless of background. Success depends on dedication, study habits, and commitment to learning the business.

Ohio Real Estate Market Context

Market Characteristics

Ohio’s real estate market is diverse and robust, featuring:

  • Major metropolitan hubs like Columbus, Cleveland, and Cincinnati.
  • A wide range of markets, from bustling urban centers to quiet suburban neighborhoods and rural properties.
  • A mix of historic homes and new construction developments.
  • Strong demand across various price points.

Opportunities for New Agents

Potential specialization areas include:

  • First-time home buyers
  • University-area housing and investment properties
  • New construction sales
  • Working with downsizing seniors
  • Rural and agricultural properties

Market conditions change regularly. Stay informed through local MLS data, market reports, and industry publications.

Ohio-Specific Legal Requirements

Disclosure

Ohio has specific laws regarding property condition disclosures. Agents must be well-versed in these requirements to guide clients properly and ensure compliance. Your pre-licensing education and broker training will cover this in detail.

Criminal History

The Ohio Division of Real Estate requires a background check and reviews applications with criminal records on a case-by-case basis. It is critical to provide a full and honest disclosure of your history on your application.

Disclosure requirements and other state laws are complex. Proper training and broker guidance are essential for navigating them correctly.

Getting Started – Action Steps

  1. Research & Enroll: Compare the approved Ohio schools and enroll in the 120-hour pre-licensing package that best fits your budget and learning style.
  2. Schedule Your Exam: As you near the end of your coursework, visit the testing vendor’s website to schedule your state exam.
  3. Start Networking: Begin researching local brokerages. Talk to agents and brokers to learn about different company cultures and find a good fit for your career launch.

Ohio Continuing Education and License Renewal

Renewal Requirements

Ohio real estate licenses must be renewed every three years. To renew, agents must complete 30 hours of continuing education, which must include specific core courses on law, civil rights, and ethics.

Check the Ohio Division of Real Estate website for the most current continuing education requirements and approved courses.

Professional Development

To stay competitive, consider ongoing education in market specializations, new technology, and legal updates beyond the minimum requirements.

Official Resources and Support

  • Ohio Division of Real Estate & Professional Licensing: The official source for all licensing rules, applications, and fee schedules. com.ohio.gov/real-estate
  • PSI / Testing Vendor: The official vendor for scheduling and taking the state exam.
  • Ohio REALTORS®: The state’s largest professional association for real estate agents, offering resources, education, and advocacy.

Disclaimers

  • Accuracy Notice: This guide is for informational purposes. All requirements, fees, and timelines are subject to change. Always verify information with the official Ohio Division of Real Estate & Professional Licensing.
  • No Legal Advice: This content is not legal or financial advice.
  • School Information: School offerings, prices, and promotions change. Contact schools directly for the most current details.

This guide was last updated in July 2025. For test questions and a personalized plan based on your background and goals, use my Real Estate Career Planner tool.