Simple Steps to Getting Your Indiana Real Estate License
Thinking about becoming a real estate agent in Indiana? Good news — the process is more straightforward than you might think. In fact, many people are surprised at how quickly they can move from “curious about real estate” to “licensed and ready to go.”
Here’s a simple breakdown of the steps you’ll take to earn your Indiana real estate license.
Step 1: Make Sure You Qualify
Before you start, check that you meet the state’s basic requirements:
You must be at least 18 years old.
You need to have a high school diploma or GED.
You must be a U.S. citizen or legal resident.
That’s it — no college degree or previous experience required.
Step 2: Complete the Pre-Licensing Course
The state of Indiana requires you to complete a 90-hour pre-licensing course. This course covers everything from real estate laws and contracts to property management and financing basics.
You can take the class in-person, online, or hybrid, depending on what fits your schedule best. No matter the format, the goal is to give you the knowledge you’ll need to pass the state exam and start your career.
You can also take the course before you meet eligibility requirements like high school graduation or your 18th birthday.
Cost estimate: Pre-licensing courses typically range from $600–$700, depending on the school and format.
Step 3: Pass the Real Estate Exam
Once you’ve completed your class, it’s time for the state licensing exam. The test costs about $65, is given by Pearson VUE and includes two parts:
A national portion (covering general real estate principles).
A state-specific portion (covering Indiana laws and practices).
You’ll need a score of 75% or higher on each section to pass.
Cost estimate: The exam fee is usually around $64–$90, depending on your testing option.
Step 4: Choose a Managing Broker
After passing the exam, you won’t jump straight into working solo. Indiana requires new licensees to work under a managing broker. This person will guide you as you start your career, offering support, training, and resources.
Finding the right brokerage is important — look for a company whose culture, training opportunities, and leadership style match your goals.
Step 5: Apply for Your License and Join the MLS
With your course complete, exam passed, and managing broker selected, you’ll submit your license application to the Indiana Real Estate Commission. The license fee is around $60, and once approved, you’ll officially be licensed.
Agents in Lake and Porter County also join the Northern Indiana REALTORS® Association (NIRA) to access the MLS, networking opportunities, and additional professional resources. After your startup fee, membership fees are charged quarterly.
Step 6: Start Your Career!
From here, it’s all about learning, growing, and building your business. Most agents spend their first year gaining experience, building their network, and finding their strengths. The more you put into it, the more your career will reward you.
Keep It Simple, Keep It Local
The process may sound like a lot of steps, but it’s really quite manageable. In fact, many people move from day one of class to a new career in just a few months.
Here in Lake and Porter County, the opportunities for new agents are strong — and choosing the right school makes all the difference. Our school is teacher-led, student-focused, and located in the heart of Lake County, offering in-person, online, and hybrid classes that fit your schedule. With small class sizes and personal support, you’ll gain the confidence and knowledge you need to pass the exam, join NIRA, and launch your career successfully.
