To get a real estate license in Columbus, Ohio, you must: complete 100 hours of pre-licensing education, pass the Ohio real estate exam, find a sponsoring broker, and submit your application with a $81 fee. The process typically takes 3-6 months from start to finish.

The 5 steps are:

1. Complete 100 hours of approved real estate education
2. Find a sponsoring broker
3. Apply for the exam ($81 application fee)
4. Pass the Ohio real estate exam ($63 exam fee)
5. Submit background check and fingerprinting ($50-$80)

Find more detailed information on the process in our Ohio Licensing Process Guide or check out our featured online and in-person classes.

You must be:

1. At least 18 years old
2. Have a high school diploma or equivalent (if born after 1950)
3. Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident
4. Have no disqualifying criminal convictions
5. Not have violated civil rights laws regarding real estate in the past 2 years

Find more detailed information on the process in our Ohio Licensing Process Guide, see the Ohio Revised Code 4735.09 or check out our featured online and in-person classes.

Ohio requires 100 hours of pre-licensing education as of April 9, 2025 (reduced from 120 hours). The courses must be completed at an accredited institution that offers at least a two-year degree program.

The 100 hours break down as:

1. 40 hours: Real Estate Principles and Practices
2. 40 hours: Ohio Real Estate Law (including civil rights)
3. 10 hours: Real Estate Finance
4. 10 hours: Real Estate Appraisal

Find more detailed information on the process in our Ohio Licensing Process Guide, visit the Ohio Department of Commerce site or check out our featured online and in-person classes.

The total cost ranges from $999 to $2,220 in Columbus Ohio, depending on your choice of real estate school and additional services.

Typical costs include:

1. Pre-licensing course: $999-$1,799+ (View our course packages)
2. Exam application fee: $81
3. Exam fee: $63
4. Background check/fingerprinting: $50-$80
5. License application fee: $58

Our featured Quick Start package begins at just $999, making it one of the most affordable options in Ohio. Compare all package options here.

Yes, Ohio offers remote online proctored exams in addition to in-person testing at PSI centers. You must schedule in advance regardless of which option you choose.

Yes, you can complete all 100 hours of pre-licensing education online in Columbus through state-approved schools. Our online courses are available 24/7 with mobile-friendly access, allowing you to study at your own pace from anywhere.

Benefits of online learning:

1. 24/7 access to course materials
2. Self-paced learning that fits your schedule
3. Interactive content with real-world scenarios
4. 7-day customer support via phone, chat, and email

We partner with top-rated schools like Hondros College to provide the highest quality online education in Ohio.

Most students complete the 100-hour requirement in 3-8 weeks, depending on their schedule. If studying part-time while working, it may take 2-4 months. Most programs give you 6-12 months to complete the coursework.

Yes, you must have a sponsoring broker before you can practice real estate in Ohio. The broker serves as your supervisor and mentor. You cannot work independently as a new licensee.

What to look for in a broker:

1. Commission structure and splits
2. Training and mentorship programs
3. Lead generation support
4. Technology and marketing tools
5. Office culture and reputation

Learn more about the complete licensing process including broker selection in our detailed licensing guide.

The average real estate agent salary in Columbus Ohio is $95,396 per year for full-time agents, according to Indeed. However, income varies significantly based on experience, location, and number of transactions.