What Education Do You Need to Start a Real Estate Career? Your Full Guide to Licensing Requirements and Alternatives

By Olivia ParkerLast Updated April 21, 2025

Understanding Real Estate Licensing: Is Traditional School Required?

Those considering a career in real estate often ask whether formal schooling-such as attending college or a university-is necessary to become a real estate agent. The answer is nuanced: while you do not need a four-year college degree to start a real estate career, you are required by law in every U.S. state to complete specific pre-licensing education courses and pass a licensing exam. These educational requirements are set by state regulatory agencies and are designed to ensure that agents understand real estate laws, ethics, and transactional procedures before working with clients.

State-by-State Pre-Licensing Education Requirements

Each state mandates its own real estate education standards. Typically, this involves completing a set number of classroom hours in approved real estate courses, but not a traditional college degree. For example:

Ohio: Prospective salespersons must complete 120 hours of real estate instruction, covering principles, law, appraisal, and finance. This education must be from an institution offering at least a two-year degree program, but the degree itself is not required. Proof of education is mandatory for exam eligibility [1] .
Arkansas: Applicants must complete 60 classroom hours of real estate education, with at least 30 hours focused on basic principles. This can be done at accredited postsecondary schools or licensed organizations. No college degree is needed [2] .
Idaho: 90 hours of pre-license education are required, split between fundamental concepts and applied skills. These courses are available in-person or online and must be completed before applying for the exam [3] .
Arizona: 90 hours of pre-licensing education plus a 6-hour contract writing course are necessary for a salesperson license. Continuing education is required for license renewal [4] .

Requirements differ by state, so you must check with your state’s real estate commission. You can typically find this information by searching for your state’s official real estate licensing board or commission website.

What Does ‘Go to School’ Mean for Real Estate?

The term ‘school’ in real estate refers not to traditional college but to state-approved real estate education providers. These can include:

Community colleges
Private real estate schools (online or in-person)
Universities (for those who wish to pursue further education, though not required for entry-level licensing)

Many states allow you to complete your required hours through online courses, which can be more flexible and affordable than attending an in-person program. Accredited providers often offer self-paced learning, evening classes, or weekend sessions to fit your schedule. After the coursework, you must pass a state licensing exam before practicing as an agent.

Step-by-Step: How to Become a Licensed Real Estate Agent

If you’re ready to pursue a real estate career, follow these steps. The example below uses general U.S. guidelines; always confirm your state’s specific requirements.

Research Your State’s Licensing Requirements: Visit your state’s official real estate commission or department of professional licensing. Search for “StateName real estate licensing requirements.”
Select an Approved Education Provider: Choose a state-approved school or online provider. Look for reviews, pass rates, and whether courses meet state hour requirements.
Complete Required Pre-Licensing Courses: Attend all mandatory classes and pass the required final course exams. Some states stipulate a minimum passing grade (often 70%).
Submit Your Application: Prepare your application for the state licensing exam. You will need to provide proof of completed education, submit to a criminal background check, and pay the application fee. Fee amounts and background check processes vary by state.
Pass the State Licensing Exam: Schedule and take the exam, which typically covers state and national real estate laws, principles, and practices. You must pass both sections to qualify for licensure.
Activate Your License: Once you pass the exam, you may need to affiliate with a licensed real estate broker before you can start practicing. Broker sponsorship is required in most states.
Complete Post-Licensing or Continuing Education (if required): Some states require new licensees to complete additional education within the first months or years after licensure to keep their license active [3] .

Alternatives and Additional Credentials

While a college degree is not required for real estate licensing, some professionals choose to pursue higher education in business, finance, or related fields to enhance their credentials and career prospects. Advanced roles, such as real estate broker or property manager, often require additional experience and education. For example, to become a broker in Iowa, you must have 24 months of active salesperson experience and complete 60 hours of broker pre-license education [5] .

If you are interested in real estate investment, property management, or appraisal, these fields have their own licensing and education requirements, often separate from those for sales agents. Again, contact your state’s relevant licensing board for exact details and approved education providers.

Finding Approved Real Estate Schools

To locate an approved real estate education provider:

Visit your state’s real estate commission or department of licensing website. Most maintain a searchable directory of approved schools.
Search for “StateName approved real estate schools” for a current list.
If in doubt, call the licensing board directly for guidance.

Some well-known national real estate education providers include Kaplan Real Estate Education and other regionally accredited institutions. Always verify that the provider is approved for your state before enrolling.

Practical Challenges and Solutions

Common challenges for aspiring real estate professionals include balancing coursework with work or family commitments, navigating complex application processes, and financing education costs. Many schools offer evening or online classes to accommodate busy schedules. Tuition varies, but financial aid or payment plans may be available at some providers. Thoroughly review your options and ask schools about refund or rescheduling policies before enrolling.

If you encounter difficulties with background checks, exam scheduling, or finding a sponsoring broker, reach out to your state’s licensing authority for additional support. They often provide resources, FAQs, and direct contact options on their official websites.

Key Takeaways and Next Steps

You do not need to attend traditional college to become a real estate agent, but you must complete state-mandated pre-licensing education from an approved provider. The process typically involves 60 to 120 hours of coursework, passing a licensing exam, and meeting background check requirements. Each state sets its own standards, so consult your state’s real estate commission for precise details.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always rely on your state’s official real estate licensing board. Begin your journey by searching for your state’s commission or department of professional licensing and reviewing their published guidelines. With focused effort and the right resources, you can launch a rewarding career in real estate without the need for a traditional degree.