If you're considering a career in real estate in Idaho, understanding the state's licensing requirements is essential. The Idaho Real Estate Commission (IREC) oversees the licensing process, ensuring that all agents meet specific educational and ethical standards. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the steps to become a licensed real estate salesperson in Idaho.
How to Get Your Idaho Real Estate License
Meet Basic Eligibility Requirements
Before starting your real estate journey, ensure you meet the following criteria:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Hold a high school diploma or GED
- Be a U.S. citizen or lawfully admitted alien
Complete 90 Hours of Pre-Licensing Education
Enroll in a state-approved 90-hour pre-licensing course, divided into two 45-hour modules:
- Salesperson Prelicense Module 1: Fundamental real estate concepts
- Salesperson Prelicense Module 2: Applied skills in listing, selling, buying, and closing real property transactions
These courses are available both online and in-person through various providers.
Pass the Course Final Exams
After completing each module, you must pass the course final exam with a minimum score of 70%. You must attend 100% of each course.
Submit Fingerprints and Background Check
Schedule an appointment to have your fingerprints taken electronically through an approved Pearson VUE service provider. This step is essential for the IREC to conduct a background check. The fingerprinting and background check fee is $61.25.
Pass the Idaho Real Estate Salesperson Examination
Once your application is approved, you'll receive an authorization to test from Pearson VUE, the exam administrator. The exam consists of two parts: national and state-specific sections, each requiring a minimum score of 70% to pass. The exam fee is $80.
Obtain Errors and Omissions Insurance
To activate your license, you must obtain errors and omissions insurance. This insurance protects real estate businesses from mistakes made during professional service. The Idaho Real Estate Commission works closely with Rice Insurance Services, LLC, to provide affordable options for Idaho licensees, or you can choose your own provider and submit the Independent Coverage Certification Form.
Apply for Licensure
Submit your application through the Idaho Real Estate Commission. You'll need to provide proof of completed education, exam score reports, a signed Sponsoring Broker Statement Form, and the application fee of $160.
Select a Sponsoring Broker
To activate your license, you must affiliate with an Idaho-licensed real estate broker. Your broker will guide you through the application process and provide mentorship as you begin your career.
Post-Licensing Education
New licensees must complete 12 hours of post-licensing education within the first year of licensure. This includes an 8-hour Post License Fundamentals course and one of the following electives: Post License Pricing, Marketing, and Advertising; Post License Professionalism, Negotiations, and Closings; or Post License Introduction to Commercial Real Estate.
Continuing Education
To maintain your license, Idaho requires 12 hours of continuing education every two years, including two different core courses.
Estimated Costs
Here's a breakdown of the typical costs associated with obtaining your Idaho real estate license:
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Pre-Licensing Course: $400 – $800
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Application Fee: $160
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Fingerprinting: $61.25
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Exam Fee: $80
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Errors and Omissions Insurance: $200 – $300 per year
Total Estimated Cost: Approximately $1,000 – $1,500
Reciprocity Agreements
Idaho does not maintain formal reciprocity agreements with any other states. However, the Idaho Real Estate Commission offers limited licensing recognition for certain out-of-state agents under specific conditions. Out-of-state agents can handle Idaho real estate transactions remotely under their out-of-state license, but to practice real estate within Idaho, you must obtain an Idaho real estate license.
Embarking on a real estate career in Idaho involves a structured process, from education to examination and ongoing learning. By understanding and following these requirements, you can establish a successful career in Idaho's dynamic real estate market. Global Real Estate School is here to help guide you.