How to Get a Kentucky Real Estate License: Step-by-Step Guide

To become a real estate agent in Kentucky, you must first get a real estate license. 

This guide will walk you through the steps required to become a licensed, answer frequently asked questions, and provide key insights into the profession.

Let’s get started.

How to Get Your Real Estate License in Kentucky

You must meet several requirements and follow specific steps to get your license. Here's a step-by-step process to become a real estate agent in Kentucky.

1. Meet Kentucky's Basic Requirements

To qualify for a Kentucky real estate license, you must:

• be at least 18 years old
• have a high school diploma or GED
• be a U.S. citizen or legal resident

2. Complete the Required Pre-Licensing Education

You’ll need to complete 96 hours of pre-licensing education from an accredited real estate school. 

These courses cover essential topics, including:

• Real estate law
• Principles and practices of real estate
• Contracts and agreements
• Property ownership and rights
• Real estate finance
• Ethics and professional conduct

At the end of the course, you must pass a final exam to receive your certificate of completion.

If you want to enroll in a real estate school, we partnered with Kaplan to provide exceptional real estate courses to Kentucky students. 

Sign up through US Realty Training and get a discount.

3. Apply for the Kentucky Real Estate Exam

Once you’ve completed the pre-licensing education portion, you can apply for the Kentucky real estate exam. 

The exam is administered by PSI. You can apply for the exam through PSI’s website or by calling them at (855) 746-8176.

The fee to take the exam is $100. If you fail, you can retake the exam for an additional $100.

4. Pass the Kentucky Real Estate Exam

You will have to pass the real estate exam by scoring 75% or higher on the state and national portion.

Here’s a breakdown of the exam:

• National: 80 multiple-choice questions with 150 minutes to complete
• State: 40 multiple-choice questions with 90 minutes to complete

Preparing thoroughly for the exam by reviewing your course materials and taking practice exams can significantly increase your chances of success.

We provide a Kentucky real estate crash course and exam prep package to make studying and passing easy. This program provides 8+ hours of video content that explains concepts, vocabulary, historical events, and laws on the exam. 

You get unlimited practice exams, vocab flashcards, an eBook study guide, and 2,000+ question-and-answer videos.

5. Submit Your Real Estate License Application

You can submit your real estate license application through the Kentucky Real Estate Commission (KREC) website. You will need the following materials:

• Certificate of completion of your 96 hours of pre-licensing education or six (6) academic credit hours from a college or university in real estate courses.
• Proof of identification, such as a valid driver's license or passport.
• Completed the application form from the KREC website.
• $60 application fee payment
• Background check confirmation was initiated through the KREC system.

You must undergo a criminal background check, which you can initiate through the Kentucky Real Estate Commission (KREC). 

Request a criminal history check for $18 through the FBI’s website. Once requested, the report will be mailed to you and typically arrives within one week.

Then, schedule fingerprinting through IdentoGO for a $51.25 fee with service code 27GJR5. The Kentucky State Police will then send the results directly to KREC

Your criminal history check will remain valid for 90 days from the date of issuance; do not don’t waste any time because you’ll need your criminal history check to be active for KREC to issue your license. 

6. Find a Sponsoring Broker 

To activate your Kentucky real estate license, you need to affiliate with a licensed Kentucky real estate broker. Your sponsoring broker will provide the necessary training and guidance as you start your career.

FAQs About Getting a Real Estate License in Kentucky

Here are the most common questions we have received from students who plan on getting their licenses.

How Much Do Kentucky Real Estate Agents Make?

Real estate agent earnings in Kentucky can vary based on location, experience, and market conditions. On average, real estate agents in Kentucky earn $80,514, with the lower end around $37,900 and the higher end reaching up to $170,778. 

Top-performing agents in high-demand areas can earn significantly more through commissions on property sales.

How Much Does a Kentucky Real Estate License Cost?

The costs associated with obtaining a Kentucky real estate license typically include:

• Pre-licensing education: $300–$600
• Exam fee: $100
• Background check: $69
• Application fee: $60

Expect to spend approximately $529–$829 to complete the entire licensing process.

Is Becoming a Real Estate Agent in Kentucky Worth It?

If you enjoy working with people, are self-motivated, and have a passion for property, becoming a real estate agent in Kentucky can be a highly rewarding career. The flexibility, earning potential, and opportunity to help clients make life-changing decisions make this profession worth pursuing.

What Should I Know Before Becoming a Real Estate Agent?

Before starting your real estate career, it's important to understand that real estate is a commission-based industry. This means your income will depend on the number of sales you close. Additionally, building a client base takes time, so having financial stability during your first few months is essential.

Can I Get a Kentucky Real Estate License If I’m Already an Agent in Another State?

Yes, Kentucky offers reciprocity with certain states. If you are licensed in one of the following states, you may be able to bypass some of the requirements and simply take the Kentucky portion of the real estate exam:

• Florida
• Illinois
• Ohio
• Tennessee
• West Virginia

How Often Do I Renew My Kentucky Real Estate License?

Kentucky real estate licenses must be renewed by March 31st of each even-numbered year (2024, 2026, etc.) To renew, you’ll need to complete your continuing education requirements and pay the renewal fee ($200.)

What Should I Do After Getting My Kentucky Real Estate License?

After obtaining your Kentucky real estate license, your next step is to start working with your sponsoring broker to gain experience. Networking, building a client base, and continuing to learn about the market are essential for success.

Take as many training classes as you can in your first year. The first year is a great opportunity to learn as much as you can. Join a team, find a mentor, book a coach, take training seminars.

Final Thoughts on Getting a Real Estate License in Kentucky

A career in real estate is an exciting one. No two days are similar. You’ll experience challenges and grow in ways you could never imagine.

If you’re ready to take the first step, enroll in our partnered Kentucky real estate licensing course today and get a discount.