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

If you want to become a real estate sales agent in Utah, you must get a real estate license.

This guide walks you through the licensing process, step-by-step. If you’re ready to start a new career in an exciting industry, then let’s start.

How to Get Your Real Estate License in Utah

Here’s a bird’s eye view of every step to get a real estate license in Utah.

1. Meet the Basic Requirements
2. Complete the Required Pre-Licensing Education
3. Apply for the Utah Real Estate Exam
4. Pass the Utah Real Estate Exam
5. Submit to a Background Check and Fingerprinting
6. Find a Sponsoring Broker
7. Submit Your Application to the Utah Division of Real Estate

Let’s explore each step in detail so you know exactly how to become an agent in Utah.

Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements

To be eligible for a Utah real estate license, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Have a high school diploma or GED.
• Be a legal U.S. resident or authorized to work in the U.S.

You must meet these criteria to proceed with the rest of the licensing steps.

Step 2: Complete the Required Pre-Licensing Education

You are required to complete 120 hours of pre-licensing education through a real estate school approved by the Utah Division of Real Estate. 

The courses cover key topics such as:

• Real estate principles: Property ownership, transfer, and management.
• Contracts: Purchase agreements, leases, and agency disclosure forms.
• Utah real estate laws: Regulations governing property transactions in Utah.
• Ethics and professional conduct: Rules of behavior for real estate professionals.
• Financing and mortgages: Loan types, lending practices, and credit analysis.

At the end of the course, you’ll need to pass a final exam with a 70% score or higher to receive a certificate of completion. This certificate is mandatory for applying to the real estate licensing exam.

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

Sign up through US Realty Training and get a discount.

Step 3: Apply for the Utah Real Estate Exam

After completing your education, you’ll need to apply for the real estate exam. Here’s what you need to do:

• Where to apply: Submit your application online through Pearson VUE, the exam administrator.
• Application materials:some text
  • Pre-licensing education certificate
  • A government-issued ID
  • Exam fee: $59
• How to apply: Create an account on Pearson VUE’s website, choose a test location (in-person or online), and schedule your exam date.

Once your application is accepted, Pearson VUE will send you a confirmation email with the necessary details for taking the exam.

Step 4: Pass the Utah Real Estate Exam

The Utah real estate exam is 4 hours long and divided into two sections:

• National section: 80 questions on general real estate topics such as contracts, financing, and property ownership.
• State section: 50 questions covering Utah-specific real estate laws and practices.

To pass the exam, you need to score at least 70% on both sections. If you don’t pass, you can retake the exam by paying the exam fee again.

How to prepare for the exam:

We provide a Utah 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.

Step 5: Submit to a Background Check and Fingerprinting

All applicants must complete a background check as part of the licensing process. Here’s what to expect:

• Where to complete: Fingerprinting can be done at Pearson VUE testing centers or submitted by mail if taking the exam remotely.
• Fee: Approximately $40–$50.
• Processing time: 1–2 weeks for the background check to be reviewed.

This step ensures that applicants meet the moral standards required for a real estate license.

Step 6: Find a Sponsoring Broker

Your real estate license must be activated through a licensed brokerage, so selecting the right broker is an important step in starting your career. 

When evaluating potential brokers, consider the training opportunities they offer, such as mentorship programs or support for new agents.

In your first year, education is a major perk. As you pick your brokerage, find the ones that provide the most support and learning opportunities.

Step 7: Submit Your Application to the Utah Division of Real Estate

Once you pass the exam and secure a sponsoring broker, you’ll need to submit your license application.

• Where to apply: Submit your application online through the Utah Division of Real Estate’s portal.
• Application materials:some text
  • Exam score report
  • Pre-licensing education certificate
  • Background check results
  • Sponsoring broker agreement
  • Application fee: $157 (includes fingerprint and background check)

Make sure all documents are accurate and complete to avoid delays in processing. The Division will review your application and notify you once it’s approved.

Step 8: Receive Your Utah Real Estate License

After your application is approved, you will receive your license electronically through the Utah Division of Real Estate’s online system. With your active license, you can officially start working as a real estate sales agent and begin helping clients buy, sell, or lease properties.

FAQs About Getting a Real Estate License in Utah

How Much Do Utah Real Estate Agents Make?

Utah real estate agents earn an average annual salary of $60,000, but earnings vary widely depending on experience, location, and effort. 

According to Salary.com, the median salary for real estate agents in Utah is $44,437 per year, with most salaries ranging between $40,000 and $50,000​.

Top-performing agents working in luxury or high-demand markets can earn six-figure incomes, especially if they specialize in high-value properties or operate in competitive areas like Salt Lake City. 

Ultimately, your income will depend on how effectively you generate leads, close deals, and manage your business operations. Building a strong client base, developing marketing strategies, and continuously learning will play a key role in boosting your earnings and career growth.

How Much Does a Utah Real Estate License Cost?

The total cost to get a Utah real estate license usually ranges between $756–$1,200. Here’s a breakdown of the costs:

• Pre-licensing education: $400–$700
• Exam fee: $66
• Background check and fingerprinting: $40–$50
• License application fee: $152 

These fees may vary slightly depending on the education provider and testing location.

Is Becoming a Real Estate Agent in Utah Worth It?

Becoming a real estate agent in Utah can be a fulfilling career if you enjoy flexible work schedules, networking, and helping people achieve their property goals. 

However, it requires hard work, persistence, and the ability to manage a business. Many agents find it helpful to start part-time to ease into the industry while building their client base.

What Should I Know Before Becoming a Real Estate Agent?

Real estate can be a challenging career, especially in the beginning. You’ll need to manage inconsistent income, work irregular hours, and put in the effort to build a client base. 

Networking is essential, as is staying up-to-date with market trends. Having a financial cushion can help new agents manage the transition to full-time work.

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

Yes, Utah offers reciprocity with specific jurisdictions, allowing licensed agents from those areas to bypass some requirements. Utah currently has reciprocity agreements with Georgia, Mississippi, and Alberta, Canada. 

Agents from these areas may only need to meet Utah’s state-specific requirements, such as passing the Utah portion of the real estate exam, without needing to complete additional education or the national exam portion.

If you are licensed in another state that does not have a reciprocity agreement with Utah, you may still qualify for waivers on certain education or exam requirements. However, every case is reviewed individually to determine eligibility.

Always check with the Utah Division of Real Estate for the most up-to-date information and specific application procedures if you are applying under reciprocity or seeking waivers.

How Often Do I Renew My Utah Real Estate License?

Real estate licenses in Utah must be renewed every two years. Agents need to complete 18 hours of continuing education during each renewal cycle, which includes 9 hours of core courses and a 3-hour mandatory course. Failing to renew on time can result in late fees or license suspension.

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

After obtaining your real estate license, the next step is to focus on building a solid foundation for your business. 

Start by creating a professional website and establishing a presence on social media platforms to promote your services and connect with potential clients. Developing a detailed business plan is also essential, as it helps you define your goals, identify strategies, and outline actionable steps to achieve them. 

Networking is another critical component—attend local real estate events, meet other agents, and build relationships within the industry to expand your opportunities. 

Additionally, commit to continuous learning by participating in seminars and enrolling in advanced courses to stay updated with industry trends and improve your skills. These steps will give you the momentum needed to grow your career and set you on the path to long-term success.

Final Thoughts on Getting a Real Estate License in Utah

Obtaining your Utah real estate license involves multiple steps, from completing education to passing the exam and finding a brokerage. 

While the process requires effort, the career offers great potential for those who are dedicated. With the right preparation, you can unlock a rewarding career in real estate.

If you’re ready to get started, enroll in our partnered Utah real estate licensing course today and get a discount.