How to become a realtor in Indiana: a guide with tips, facts, necessary links, and overall information for candidates

Indiana offers solid opportunities for those planning to enter the real estate market. With a valid license, you can sell homes, work with commercial property, find locations for clients, and assist with mortgages. Real estate agents—officially called brokers in Indiana—often enjoy competitive earnings and a flexible career path.

Many professionals start with residential deals, but experienced agents can lead teams or open their own brokerages. It’s a career with clear growth potential and strong demand across the state.

To get started, you need a state-issued real estate license. Below, you’ll find essential facts, requirements, and tips to help you begin your journey to becoming a licensed real estate broker in Indiana.

6 steps to getting a real estate license in Indiana

Want to become a licensed real estate broker in Indiana? We’ve prepared a clear, step-by-step guide with everything you need — no extra research required. Follow these six essential steps to get your license and start your career.

1. State of Indiana real estate license requirements: what to start with

To become a real estate broker in Indiana, you must meet several basic requirements:

Once these requirements are met, you can move to the next step without delay.

2. Complete 90 hours of required pre-licensing education

Pre-licensing education is mandatory for all future brokers in Indiana. The state requires 90 hours of coursework covering topics like real estate law, marketing, finance, insurance, mortgage, and property management. This knowledge prepares you for real practice — something high school doesn’t teach.

You can choose from in-person, hybrid, or online formats — full-time or self-paced. If you’re unemployed or have flexible time, full-time training with a mentor may work best. Otherwise, online or livestream classes allow you to study at your own pace.

Recommended education and training providers

The best courses for pre- and post-licensing in real estate.

See License Courses

Choosing a training provider is key. Here’s how to make the right decision:

1. Select your preferred learning format: offline with a mentor or flexible remote learning.
2. Read student reviews — they’re often more honest than ads.
3. Verify the school’s license. Only state-approved providers are valid.
4. Trust your instincts. Sometimes, the best choice is the one that feels right.

Additionally, you can boost your skills using free resources like YouTube, real estate blogs, magazines, or test platforms.

3. Pass the course final exam

After completing the 90-hour course, you must pass a final exam. It tests your knowledge and readiness for the state exam. Treat it as valuable practice — it helps reinforce key concepts and prepares you for the licensing process.

4. Pass the Indiana real estate examination

To get your license, you must pass the official Indiana real estate exam. It’s administered by PSI Exams, a nationwide testing provider.

The exam is available only in person — online testing is not an option. You’ll need to find the nearest PSI test center and book a convenient date and time through their website.

The exam fee is $52 per attempt and must be paid each time you register.

How hard is the Indiana real estate exam?

The exam includes 125 questions and requires focused preparation. It’s challenging, but with proper study, most candidates pass on their first try.

How many questions are on the Indiana permit test?

The exam consists of 125 questions, divided into two parts: National and State-specific sections.

What score do you need to pass the IN real estate exam?

You need at least a 75% score to pass. The National and State sections are graded separately. If you pass one but fail the other, you’ll only need to retake the failed section.

What happens if you fail the real estate exam in Indiana?

You can retake the exam as many times as needed within one year of your first attempt. Each retake requires paying the exam fee again.

5. Find a brokerage firm or a sponsoring broker

Passing the exam isn’t the final step. To get your license, you must be sponsored by a licensed broker or a brokerage firm operating in Indiana.

When choosing a sponsor, consider the following:

1. Ask what type of property you’ll be selling — commercial deals often bring higher commissions.
2. Research the broker’s reputation and track record.
3. Discuss commission rates and revenue splits in advance.
4. Clarify what support, training, and benefits are included in the sponsorship package.

6. Complete your real estate broker license application

To finalize the process, submit your license application to the IPLA Real Estate Commission. You can apply online and attach the required documents:

• Proof of passing the exam
• Sponsoring broker’s details
• Criminal background check

Once approved, you’ll receive your license by email. Print it and you’re ready to legally work with Indiana real estate.

How much does it cost to get a real estate license in Indiana?

Before starting your real estate journey, it’s important to plan both your time and budget. Below is a cost breakdown to help you estimate the total investment required for licensing in Indiana.

Indiana real estate license reciprocal states

Indiana has a reciprocal licensing agreement only with Illinois. If you’re licensed in any other state — such as California, Washington, or Iowa — you must apply for an Indiana license separately.

This includes completing pre-licensing education, passing the state exam, and securing a sponsoring broker within Indiana.

Indiana real estate license renewal requirements

In Indiana, real estate license renewal requires completing 12 hours of continuing education (CE) each year within a three-year cycle — a total of 36 hours before renewal. Unlike some states, CE in Indiana must be taken annually. You don’t need to submit certificates with your renewal, but you must keep them in case of an audit.

To renew your license, follow these steps:

Indiana Professional Licensing Agency (IPLA): how to contact and what to expect from the authority

The Indiana Professional Licensing Agency (IPLA) is the official body that handles licensing, background checks, renewals, CE verification, and dispute resolution for regulated professions, including real estate brokers. Its website is the primary resource for submitting forms, checking license status, and accessing official guidance.

You can contact IPLA in the following ways:

• Visit or send mail to: 402 W Washington St, W072, Indianapolis, IN 46204
• Call for assistance: +1 317-232-2960

Some ideas for summaries on how to become a real estate agent in Indiana

Getting a real estate broker license in Indiana is a realistic goal for anyone driven by self-growth, high earning potential, and a passion for property deals. While the process is similar to other states, Indiana has specific course-hour and exam content requirements.

To succeed, you’ll need to complete 90 hours of pre-licensing education, pass the final exams, secure a sponsoring broker, undergo a background check, and optionally join a professional group like the Indiana Realtors Association.

If you’re ready to take on these steps, follow the guidance in this article to move forward with confidence. Below, you’ll find a helpful FAQ with answers to common questions about the process.

About the author

Michael Baker is a journalist with over 5 years of experience in the real estate industry. His knowledge of licensing processes, procedures and requirements makes her an expert in the field.