Thinking about a career in real estate? Indiana’s growing housing market offers many opportunities for aspiring real estate professionals. In Indiana, the term "broker" is used instead of "real estate agent", meaning all licensed real estate professionals must hold a broker’s license to practice. 

To help you get started, we’ve put together a detailed, fact-based guide on the steps required to earn your Indiana real estate broker license. From completing your pre-licensing education to passing the exam and applying for your license, here’s everything you need to know.

How to Get Your Real Estate License in Indiana

Below is an ordered list of the steps you need to follow, including key details on the exam application and licensing process. 

Please note that requirements can change, so always verify the latest information with the Indiana Real Estate Commission and PearsonVue (the state’s testing vendor) before proceeding.

1. Meet the Basic Requirements
2. Complete the 90-Hour Pre-Licensing Course
3. Apply for the Real Estate Exam
4. Pass the Indiana Real Estate Licensing Exam
5. Find a Managing Broker
6. Apply for the Indiana Real Estate License

By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to a successful real estate career in Indiana.

1. Meet the Basic Requirements

To start, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Hold a high school diploma or GED
• Have a clean legal record (or be prepared to disclose any past issues)

The Indiana Real Estate Commission will review any criminal or disciplinary history to ensure you meet their good moral character requirement.

2. Complete the 90-Hour Pre-Licensing Course

To kickstart your real estate career in Indiana, you’ll need to complete a 90-hour pre-licensing course approved by the Indiana Real Estate Commission (IREC). This essential training lays the groundwork for your success, covering everything from real estate laws to financial strategies.

What You’ll Learn:

• Indiana Real Estate Law – Stay compliant with state regulations.
• Principles of Real Estate – Master property types, transactions, and key industry concepts.
• Ethics & Agency Relationships – Understand your role as an agent and how to serve clients ethically.
• Contracts & Negotiations – Learn the art of closing deals and protecting client interests.
• Real Estate Finance & Mortgages – Gain insights into home loans, interest rates, and financing options.
• Property Management & Investment – Explore rental management and real estate as an investment strategy.

Flexible Learning Options

You can choose the learning style that best fits your schedule. Many providers offer:

• Online, self-paced courses for flexibility.
• In-person classes for a structured learning experience.

Once you complete the coursework, you must pass a final course exam to prove your understanding before moving on to the Indiana real estate licensing exam.

Ready to take the next step? Find a course provider that fits your learning style and start your journey today!

3. Apply for the Real Estate Exam

As of April 2025, the Indiana Real Estate Commission has transitioned its examination services to Pearson VUE. When registering for the exam on Pearson VUE's website, you'll find it listed as the "Indiana Real Estate Broker Examination."​

How to Register:

1. Access Pearson VUE's Indiana Real Estate Page:
   
   • Visit Pearson VUE's official website.​
   • Navigate to the Indiana Real Estate section.​
2. Create an Account:
   
   • Click on the "Create account" or "Sign up" option.​
   • Provide the required personal information.​
3. Schedule Your Exam:
   
   • Once your account is set up, log in and select the "Indiana Real Estate Broker Examination."​
   • Choose a convenient test center location and available date.​
4. Pay the Exam Fee:
   
   • The fee for the Indiana Real Estate Broker Exam is approximately $55, but verify the exact amount during registration.​

For detailed information on exam procedures, policies, and preparation materials, refer to the Indiana Real Estate Candidate Handbook.​

Please note that exam fees and procedures are subject to change. It's advisable to verify the current details on the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency's Real Estate Licensing Information page or contact Pearson VUE directly for the most up-to-date information.

4. Pass the Indiana Real Estate Licensing Exam

On exam day, you’ll take a two-part test (national portion and state-specific portion) administered by PearsonVUE. 

The Indiana Real Estate Broker Exam includes:

• National Portion: 80 scored questions + 5 pretest (unscored)
• State Portion: 50 scored questions + 5 pretest (unscored)
• Total Questions: 140 (130 scored, 10 unscored)
• Time Allowed: Approximately 4 hours total (150 minutes for the national portion and 90 minutes for the state portion).

A passing score is 75%. Once you pass, you’ll receive an exam completion document. If you don’t pass on your first try, you can retake the exam, but you may need to pay additional fees and wait for available retest appointments.

5. Find a Managing Broker

Before you can practice real estate in Indiana, you need to work under a managing broker (also referred to as a “sponsoring broker”). Consider the following when choosing a brokerage:

• Training and Mentorship: Does the brokerage provide ongoing education or mentorship?
• Commission Structure: What is the split? Are there any desk fees or monthly fees?
• Company Culture: Does the brokerage’s work environment align with your professional goals?

Interview multiple brokers to find the best fit for your long-term career success.

6. Apply for the Indiana Real Estate License

After passing the exam and selecting a sponsoring broker, you’re ready to apply for your Indiana real estate license through the Indiana Real Estate Commission. Here’s what to do:

• Complete the License Application: This is typically done online via the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency (IPLA) website.
• Pay the Application Fee: The fee is usually around $60, but check the exact amount on the IPLA site.
• Submit Required Materials: You’ll need to provide proof of your exam passage, pre-licensing course completion, and broker sponsorship details.

Be sure to keep copies of all documents for your records. Once approved, you’ll receive your official real estate broker license.

FAQs About Getting a Real Estate License in Indiana

How much do Indiana real estate brokers make?

Earnings for Indiana real estate brokers vary based on factors like location, managing brokerage commission splits, and personal dedication. New brokers typically earn between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, with opportunities for significant growth through career development and networking.

On average, real estate brokers in Indiana make $94,006 per year ($45.20 per hour), according to ZipRecruiter. A report from Salary.com estimates the average salary at $103,556, with a typical range between $83,014 and $127,463. Brokers with 1-2 years of experience earn around $80,000, while those with 10+ years can exceed $100,000 annually.

Top-performing brokers who build strong networks, invest in marketing, and hone their negotiation skills can earn six figures or more, with earnings potentially reaching well above the average.

How much does an Indiana real estate license cost?

The total cost includes multiple components:

• 90-Hour Pre-Licensing Course: $400–$700 (depending on the provider)
• Exam Fee (PearsonVUE): Approximately $55
• License Application Fee: Around $60
• Background Check: $40–$60 (may vary)

Overall, expect to spend between $500 and $900 for all licensing requirements. 

Is becoming a real estate agent in Indiana worth it?

If you're looking for a career with flexible hours, unlimited earning potential, and the rewarding opportunity to help people find their dream home, real estate might be the perfect fit for you.

Indiana's bustling housing market is full of opportunities, whether you're just starting out or are already an experienced broker. While the path to success in real estate requires dedication, working evenings and weekends, and a commitment to marketing, the rewards are worth it.

If you thrive in sales, love networking, and enjoy the challenge of problem-solving, real estate can be both a fulfilling and profitable career choice. Whether you're building your own business or growing with a team, the sky's the limit in this dynamic industry!

What should I know before becoming a real estate agent?

Real estate is more than just showing homes—it's about managing contracts, negotiating deals, creating marketing strategies, and building strong client relationships.

You’ll also need to stay updated on industry trends and regulations through ongoing education, as required in Indiana. Be prepared for some startup costs like licensing and marketing, and understand that commissions can vary—your income will depend on the transactions you close.

For those ready to embrace the challenge, real estate offers great potential for growth and success!

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

Indiana does not maintain formal reciprocity agreements with specific states but may grant waivers for out-of-state brokers meeting similar licensing standards. Applicants may be able to:

• Waive certain pre-licensing coursework if their home state’s requirements align with Indiana’s.
• Take only the state-specific portion of the licensing exam.
• Provide proof of licensure in good standing, along with any required documentation.

Since reciprocity policies can change, out-of-state agents should check the Indiana Real Estate Commission website or contact the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency (IPLA) for the latest requirements. 

Expect to take the state exam, undergo a background check, and pay applicable fees. 

How often do I renew my Indiana real estate license?

In Indiana, your real estate license is up for renewal every three years—giving you the chance to stay sharp and up-to-date in a dynamic industry! To keep your license active, you'll need to complete continuing education (CE), which includes just 12 hours of CE annually (or 36 hours over the three-year cycle).

This is your opportunity to deepen your expertise, stay ahead of industry trends, and keep your skills fresh—ensuring you're always ready to provide top-notch service to your clients. Plus, it's a small investment of time that keeps your career on track for long-term success!

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

Once you’ve received your license, it’s time to focus on building a successful real estate career:

• Onboard with Your Sponsoring Broker: Take time to learn office procedures, marketing tools, and transaction management systems. Your broker will be an essential resource as you settle into your new role.
• Join Professional Associations: Become a member of the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) and your local board to gain access to exclusive tools, networking opportunities, and the MLS, which is vital for your business.
• Establish Your Marketing Presence: Start by building an online presence through social media and a professional website. In addition to digital marketing, don’t overlook the power of print materials, networking events, and getting involved in your local community to connect with potential clients.
• Plan for Continuing Education: Staying current is key in real estate. Begin planning your continuing education (CE) to ensure you meet the required hours and maintain your license in good standing.

These steps will lay the foundation for a thriving career and help you stand out in a competitive market.

Final Thoughts on Getting a Real Estate License in Indiana

From meeting the basic requirements to navigating the application process and passing your exam, the path to becoming a licensed Indiana real estate agent is straightforward but requires dedication. By selecting a reputable pre-licensing course, preparing thoroughly for your exam, and finding the right broker to sponsor you, you’ll set yourself up for a successful launch in this dynamic field.

Ready to take the next step? Enroll in our Indiana pre-licensing program today to get expert guidance, comprehensive coursework, and all the support you need for your new real estate career. Let us help you gain the confidence and credentials to thrive in Indiana’s real estate market!