How to get a real estate license in Iowa
Iowa requires 96 hours of pre-licensing education, a state exam given by PSI, and a background check to become a salesperson.
Last checked October 2026. Official source: Iowa Real Estate Commission
- License
- Salesperson
- Pre-licensing education
- 96 hours
- State exam
- PSI. Expect a national section and a Iowa law section.
- Background check
- Criminal background check requested through your My Iowa PLB account.
- Broker
- New licensees work under a licensed broker.
Featured Iowa real estate schools
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Steps to get licensed in Iowa
- 1
Complete 96 hours of approved education
Take the pre-licensing course from a school approved by the Commission.
- 2
Pass the state exam
Schedule with PSI once you're eligible. Expect a national section and a Iowa law section.
- 3
Complete the background check
Criminal background check requested through your My Iowa PLB account.
- 4
Affiliate with a broker
Choose a licensed Iowa broker to work under. The broker is usually part of your application or license activation.
- 5
Apply for your license
Submit your application and fees to the Iowa Real Estate Commission.
Required courses
| Course | Hours |
|---|---|
| Real Estate Principles and Practices | 60 |
| Buying Practices (live instruction) | 12 |
| Listing Practices (live instruction) | 12 |
| Developing Professionalism and Ethical Practices (live instruction) | 12 |
| Total | 96 |
The three 12-hour courses can be finished before or after the exam, but all 96 hours must be done before the license is issued. Certificates must be less than a year old when you apply.
State fees
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Exam fee | $95 |
| License application fee | $125 |
| Background check | $51 |
Course tuition is set by each school and isn't included.
After you're licensed
- Iowa licensees must carry errors and omissions insurance.
- Check the Commission for Iowa's current post-licensing, continuing education, and renewal requirements.
Licensed in another state?
Iowa offers reciprocity or license recognition for some out-of-state licensees. Check the Commission for which states qualify and what you still need to complete.
Iowa real estate license FAQ
Who issues real estate licenses in Iowa?
The Iowa Real Estate Commission (the Commission) issues the salesperson license in Iowa. Its official website is plb.iowa.gov/board/real-estate-sales-brokers.
How many hours of pre-licensing education does Iowa require?
Iowa requires 96 hours of approved pre-licensing education. The three 12-hour courses can be finished before or after the exam, but all 96 hours must be done before the license is issued. Certificates must be less than a year old when you apply.
What courses do I need to take for a Iowa real estate license?
The required coursework is Real Estate Principles and Practices (60 hours), Buying Practices (live instruction) (12 hours), Listing Practices (live instruction) (12 hours), and Developing Professionalism and Ethical Practices (live instruction) (12 hours).
What is the Iowa real estate exam like?
PSI. Expect a national section and a Iowa law section.
Is a background check required in Iowa?
Criminal background check requested through your My Iowa PLB account.
Do I need a sponsoring broker to get licensed in Iowa?
New licensees work under a licensed broker.
How much does a Iowa real estate license cost?
State fees include exam fee ($95), license application fee ($125), and background check ($51). Course tuition is set by each school and is not included.
Can I transfer a real estate license from another state to Iowa?
Iowa offers reciprocity or license recognition for some out-of-state licensees. Check the Commission for which states qualify and what you still need to complete.
What do I need to do after getting my Iowa real estate license?
Iowa licensees must carry errors and omissions insurance. Check the Commission for Iowa's current post-licensing, continuing education, and renewal requirements.
Get course info for Iowa
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Requirements and fees change. Confirm the current rules with the Iowa Real Estate Commission before you enroll or apply.