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

If you’ve been thinking about launching a career in real estate, Colorado is an excellent place to do it. The state’s thriving housing market, picturesque landscapes, and growing population make it an ideal environment for real estate professionals. 

In this guide, we’ll walk you through all the steps you need to take to become a Colorado real estate associate broker, from eligibility requirements and pre-licensing coursework to applying for your license and beyond.

Get Your Real Estate License in Colorado

In Colorado, new agents are called “associate brokers.” Before you can begin working with clients, you must meet certain prerequisites, complete 168 hours of real estate education, pass exams, and secure your license through the Colorado Division of Real Estate. Here’s an overview of the process, followed by detailed explanations of each step.

1. Confirm Your Eligibility
2. Complete 168 Hours of Pre-License Education
3. Apply for the Colorado Real Estate License Exam
4. Submit Your Fingerprints and Pass a Background Check
5. Obtain Errors & Omissions (E&O) Insurance
6. Pass the Colorado Real Estate License Exam
7. Find a Sponsoring Brokerage
8. Apply for Your Colorado Real Estate License
9. Maintain Your License with Continuing Education

1. Confirm Your Eligibility

Before anything else, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Have a high school diploma or GED.

Colorado requires you to meet these basic criteria before you’re allowed to enroll in a pre-licensing course and sit for the licensing exam.

2. Complete 168 Hours of Pre-License Education

Next, you’ll need to complete 168 hours of Colorado Real Estate Commission-approved coursework. These courses are typically broken down into key subject areas, such as:

• Real Estate Law & Practice
• Colorado Contracts & Regulations
• Real Estate Closings
• Trust Accounts & Record Keeping
• Current Legal Issues
• Practical Applications

You can take these classes in-person or online through an approved school. The material covers essential knowledge about real estate transactions, legal considerations, and industry best practices in Colorado.

After you’ve completed your 168 hours of education, most providers require you to pass a final exam to ensure you’ve mastered the material. You’ll receive a certificate of completion once you pass this test. This certificate is critical—you’ll need it to prove your eligibility when you apply for the state exam.

3. Apply for the Colorado Real Estate License Exam

With your course completed and your final exam passed, your next step is to apply for the Colorado Real Estate License Exam.

• Where to Apply: The exam is administered by PSI (a testing services company). You can register online at the PSI website or by phone.
• Application Fee: You’ll pay an exam fee (around $44) when you schedule.
• Scheduling: Choose a date, time, and location that work best for you. Testing centers are located across Colorado.

4. Submit Your Fingerprints and Pass a Background Check

Around the time you’re scheduling your exam, you should submit your fingerprints for a background check through the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the FBI. This process can take a few weeks, so plan accordingly. 

Make sure you use an approved vendor to ensure your prints are processed correctly.

5. Obtain Errors & Omissions (E&O) Insurance

In Colorado, all real estate associate brokers must carry Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance. This essential coverage protects both you and your brokerage from potential legal claims arising from your professional real estate activities. 

You can obtain E&O insurance through third-party providers or, in some cases, directly through your brokerage. Ensuring you have adequate coverage is a key step in maintaining compliance and protecting your career.

6. Pass the Colorado Real Estate License Exam

The Colorado Real Estate License Exam consists of two portions:

• National Portion: 80 questions (usually 120 minutes allowed)
• State Portion: 74 questions (usually 110 minutes allowed)

The passing score is generally around 75% for each portion. You must pass both sections to qualify for your license.

• How to Prepare: Make use of exam prep materials, practice tests, and study guides. Focus on key topics like property ownership, contracts, real estate law, and Colorado-specific regulations.
• On Test Day: Arrive early with two forms of valid ID. If you pass, you’ll receive documentation of your results to include in your license application.

7. Find a Sponsoring Brokerage

Before you can activate your Colorado real estate associate broker license, you must work under a supervising broker. When choosing a brokerage, consider factors like commission splits, mentorship programs, company culture, and opportunities for professional growth.

8. Apply for Your Colorado Real Estate License

Once you’ve passed the exam and secured a sponsoring brokerage, the final step is submitting your license application to the Colorado Division of Real Estate.

• Where to Apply: Applications are completed online through the Colorado Division of Real Estate’s licensing portal.
• Application Materials: You’ll need:
  
  • Proof of your 168 hours of education and passing course final exam
  • Examination pass notice from PSI
  • Fingerprint/background check results
  • E&O insurance documentation
  • Applicable application fees (around $485)

Once the Division of Real Estate processes your application, you’ll receive your license, and you’re officially a Colorado real estate associate broker!

9. Maintain Your License with Continuing Education

To keep your license active, you must complete 24 hours of continuing education (CE) every three years. This includes an Annual Commission Update Course each year. Staying on top of CE requirements helps you remain informed about new laws, regulations, and market trends.

FAQs About Getting a Real Estate License in Colorado

Below are some of the most common questions prospective agents have about launching a real estate career in the Centennial State.

How much do Colorado real estate associate brokers make?

On average, Colorado real estate associate brokers earn between $50,000 and $100,000 per year. Actual income varies widely based on factors like location, experience, brokerage structure, and the effort you invest in building your client base. Since most real estate agents work on commission, the more transactions you close, the higher your potential earnings.

How much does a Colorado real estate license cost?

The total cost to become a licensed associate broker in Colorado typically includes:

• Pre-license coursework: $500–$1,200
• Exam fee: Around $44
• License application fee: Around $485
• Fingerprints and background check: $40–$60
• E&O insurance: Varies (often $200+ per year)

Be sure to check with the Colorado Division of Real Estate and your education provider for the most accurate, up-to-date fees.

Is becoming a real estate associate broker in Colorado worth it?

For many, yes. Colorado’s robust real estate market, beautiful environment, and growing population make it a great place for real estate professionals. 

A career in real estate also offers flexibility, the chance to build your own business, and unlimited earning potential. However, it requires dedication, strong networking skills, and consistent effort—especially in your first few years.

What should I know before becoming a real estate associate broker?

Understand that real estate is a highly entrepreneurial field. You’ll likely have variable income, especially at the start. You’ll need to invest in marketing, build a reputation, and continually network to find clients. A supportive brokerage, solid mentorship, and ongoing professional development can significantly improve your odds of success.

Can I get a Colorado real estate license if I’m already an agent in another state?

Unlike some states that maintain official reciprocity agreements, Colorado does not offer “full” reciprocity with any other state. Instead, Colorado has a process sometimes referred to as “license by endorsement.” Here’s how it generally works:

• Substantial Equivalency: If your existing real estate education and license requirements from another state are deemed “substantially equivalent” to Colorado’s 168-hour education requirement, you may be exempt from most (or all) of the coursework.
• Still Required: You’ll likely still need to pass the Colorado-specific portion of the licensing exam, undergo a background check, obtain E&O insurance, and apply through the Colorado Division of Real Estate.
• Case-by-Case Review: The state reviews out-of-state applications individually. Because reciprocity rules can change, always confirm the latest details directly with the Colorado Division of Real Estate to see if your credentials meet their criteria.

How often do I renew my Colorado real estate license?

You must renew your license every three years. 

During each three-year renewal period, you must complete 24 hours of continuing education, which includes the Annual Commission Update Course each year. Failing to meet CE requirements can result in your license becoming inactive or expired.

What should I do after getting my Colorado real estate license?

Once you’re licensed, focus on launching your career:

• Join your local Board of REALTORS® and the Multiple Listing Service (MLS).
• Establish an online presence with a professional website, social media, and real estate platforms.
• Network at industry events and with other agents, lenders, and service providers.
• Seek mentorship from experienced brokers to gain practical insights and refine your skills.

Final Thoughts on Getting a Real Estate License in Colorado

Earning your Colorado real estate associate broker license may feel like a big undertaking, but each step brings you closer to a rewarding career. From meeting the state’s eligibility requirements to completing 168 hours of coursework and passing the exam, every milestone is an investment in your professional future.

Ready to begin your real estate career?

Enroll in our comprehensive real estate program today and gain the knowledge, tools, and support you need to succeed as a Colorado real estate associate broker!