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How to Get an Idaho Real Estate License

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The Idaho Real Estate Commission governs all real estate licensing in Idaho. You can become licensed in Idaho by following the guidelines and fulfilling the requirements.

General Requirements for an Idaho Real Estate License

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • 18 years of age or older
  • Completion of Module 1 and Module 2 sales pre-licensing course
  • Fingerprints and background check
  • Passing scores on both sections of the licensing exam
  • Legally eligible to work in the United States
  • Residence in the United States

Idaho Real Estate Pre-Licensing Course

In order to fulfill the real estate education requirement you must successfully complete Modules 1 and 2 sales pre-licensing courses. Both modules are 45 hours and cover the material needed to pass the licensing exam. You can find real estate schools and courses offered on the Public Database Search.

Reservations to Take the Idaho Real Estate Salesperson Exam

Pearson VUE is a test administration company commissioned to manage all real estate testing in Idaho. To take the exam you must first register at least 24 hours in advance. You may register to take the Idaho Real Estate Salesperson exam online at or over the phone (877-540-5833). The $85 testing fee is due upon registration. Pearson VUE has locations throughout the states of Idaho, Washington, Utah, and Nevada. There are a full list of real estate exam locations published online.

Some Pearson VUE testing centers offer fingerprinting services. Fingerprints are required to be submitted and approved before you may submit your license application. Therefore, it is recommended that you make an appointment to have your fingerprints done at the Pearson VUE testing center on the same day of your exam, if possible. There is a separate fee for this service.

If you are not getting your fingerprints taken at the testing center, you need to request a fingerprinting packet from the Idaho Real Estate Commission. Once you receive the packet you need to go to your local law enforcement building to have your fingerprints done. To expedite your license application you should have this done and submitted immediately.

The Idaho Real Estate Salesperson License Examination

You should arrive about 30 minutes prior to your testing time to allow for a comfortable check-in. If you are having your fingerprints done before your test be sure to arrive a few minutes early to give yourself plenty of time to visit the restroom between the two appointments. You will need to have two forms of identification with you; one must be government issued with a photo and signature, the other must have a signature (e.g. credit card).

There is a 4-hour time limit for the 120-question computer-based exam. You will be permitted time to practice with the computer and ask any questions regarding its functions before your four hours begins.

You need a score of 70 in order to “pass” the exam. Scores are calculated based on varied point values assigned to questions based upon their difficulty levels.

Obtaining Your Idaho Real Estate License

After you have passed both portions of the licensing exam and your fingerprints have been submitted you are ready to begin the license application process. Your test scores are only valid for one year before you apply for a license.

The first step is to get confirmation that your fingerprints have cleared according to the Idaho Real Estate Commission. You may check the status online. It can take up to 12 weeks for this process.

Once you have confirmed that your fingerprints have cleared, you may move on to obtaining Errors and Omissions Insurance. You may already be covered by your designated broker’s policy, but if not, you will have to obtain this on your own.

Several documents must be enclosed with your application, including:

  • A copy of your high school diploma
  • A copy of a document proving your residency
  • Credit card authorization form if you’re paying by credit card
  • Or, the fee for the application is $160 payable by check, debit or credit card, and cash

You must have your application notarized by a public notary.

Official Resources

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