Minnesota is known for its beautiful landscapes, friendly communities, and dynamic real estate market. If you’re passionate about helping people find their perfect home, a career in Minnesota real estate could be your ideal path.
But first, you’ll need to get licensed! This guide walks you through each essential step—from completing pre-licensing education to connecting with a sponsoring broker, passing the state exam, and activating your license. With this roadmap, you’ll be prepared to launch your real estate career in Minnesota with confidence and clarity.
Let’s get started!
Step 1: Complete Pre-Licensing Education (90 Hours)
Minnesota requires aspiring real estate agents to complete 90 hours of pre-licensing education. This education is divided into three essential courses: Course I, II, and III. Each course is designed to build upon the previous one, ensuring you gain a thorough understanding of the real estate industry:
- Course I provides a broad overview of real estate principles, covering the basics and giving you a strong foundation to build on.
- Course II takes a deeper dive, covering advanced real estate concepts. This course helps solidify your knowledge, preparing you for more complex real estate scenarios.
- Course III focuses on real estate law and ethics, which are crucial for operating within Minnesota’s legal guidelines and upholding ethical standards as an agent.
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Step 2: Prepare for and Pass the Minnesota Real Estate Exam
The Minnesota real estate exam is a comprehensive test designed to assess your knowledge of both general real estate principles and Minnesota-specific laws. It’s divided into two parts:
- National Portion: 80 questions covering general real estate principles. You’ll have 2.5 hours to complete this section.
- State Portion: 50 questions focused on Minnesota’s unique real estate laws, with 1.5 hours allotted.
Together, this gives you a total of 4 hours to complete both parts of the exam.
To pass, you’ll need to score at least:
- 60 out of 80 on the National Portion (75%).
- 38 out of 50 on the State Portion (76%).
Knowing the passing requirements can help you focus your preparation and understand where you need to direct your energy.
Preparing for the Minnesota real estate exam doesn’t have to be stressful. Here are some tips to help you succeed:
- Use practice exams: Taking practice exams can familiarize you with the format and highlight areas that need improvement.
- Review key topics: Focus on challenging topics, like Minnesota-specific laws or complex real estate calculations.
You must schedule your exam with PSI. Registration can be done in two ways: online at https://test-takers.psiexams.com/ or via fax and standard mail.
Step 3: Connect With a Minnesota Real Estate Broker
In Minnesota, you can’t legally operate as a real estate agent without a sponsoring broker. Think of the broker as your guide and support system. They’re not only helping activate your license, but they’re also there to provide resources and mentorship as you start your career. A good broker will help you navigate the industry’s challenges and grow your skills.
While commission splits are important, they’re just one part of the equation. Here are other key factors to consider:
- Training and support: Some brokerages offer in-depth training programs, especially for new agents.
- Lead generation: Certain brokers provide leads, which can be invaluable as you establish your client base.
- Technology and tools: Brokerages that invest in CRM software and other technologies can help streamline your work and make managing client relationships easier.
Step 4: Complete Background Check and Fingerprinting
The Minnesota Real Estate Board requires a background check for all applicants to ensure that agents can operate safely and ethically in the community. This check is intended to protect the public by preventing individuals with certain criminal backgrounds from gaining licensure.
Fingerprinting is part of the background check process. You can schedule your fingerprinting online with an approved provider. Make sure you bring valid identification and follow the provider’s instructions for submitting your fingerprints.
If you have a criminal record, you’ll need to provide additional documentation. This includes:
- A written statement detailing each incident.
- Official documents that explain the resolution of each case.
- Any final judgments or sentencing orders.
This information allows the board to review your case fully before making a decision.
Step 5: Submit Your License Application
The final step to obtaining your Minnesota real estate license is submitting your application.
The application fee is $130, which includes a technology surcharge and contributions to the real estate education fund. Processing typically takes 3-5 business days, but it may vary depending on the volume of applications. Once your application is approved, you’re officially licensed and ready to start your career.
Step 6: Activate and Maintain Your License
Your real estate license in Minnesota needs to be renewed annually. This renewal must be managed by your primary broker, who will submit it through the same online portal used for your initial application. The renewal fee is $60.
Minnesota requires 30 hours of continuing education every two years, with at least 15 hours completed annually. This education includes mandatory hours on fair housing laws and anti-discrimination. Staying current with these requirements is essential for maintaining your license and keeping up-to-date with industry standards.
Starting Your Journey in Minnesota Real Estate
You’ve navigated the steps to obtaining your real estate license in Minnesota, and you’re now ready to dive into a fulfilling career. Whether you’re drawn to residential sales, commercial properties, or real estate investment, Minnesota’s real estate market offers plenty of opportunities to grow and succeed.
Keep learning, stay connected with your broker, and always put your clients’ needs first—and you’ll build a career to be proud of.
FAQ
What are the basic requirements to become a real estate agent in Minnesota?
To become a licensed real estate agent in Minnesota, you must be at least 18 years old, a U.S. citizen or legally admitted alien, and possess a valid Social Security Number.
How many hours of pre-licensing education are required, and what do the courses cover?
Minnesota requires 90 hours of pre-licensing education, divided into three courses (Course I, II, and III). Course I covers real estate basics, Course II dives into advanced concepts, and Course III focuses on Minnesota-specific real estate law and ethics.
What does the Minnesota real estate exam consist of, and what is the passing score?
The exam has two sections: an 80-question National Portion and a 50-question State Portion. You need a score of 75% on the National portion (60/80) and 76% on the State portion (38/50) to pass.
How do I find a sponsoring broker, and why is one required?
In Minnesota, a sponsoring broker is required to activate and maintain your license. Look for a broker who offers good training, support, and technology, as they’ll play a crucial role in guiding your career.
What is the purpose of the background check and fingerprinting?
The Minnesota Real Estate Board requires background checks to ensure agents can operate safely and ethically. Fingerprinting is part of this process, and additional documentation may be required if you have a criminal record.
How much does it cost to apply for a real estate license in Minnesota?
The application fee is $130, which includes surcharges for technology and contributions to the education fund. Processing typically takes 3-5 business days once submitted by your sponsoring broker.
What are the renewal requirements for a Minnesota real estate license?
Minnesota licenses must be renewed annually by June 30, with a renewal fee of $60. You’ll also need 30 hours of continuing education every two years, with 15 hours completed annually, covering topics like fair housing and anti-discrimination.