How to Get a Real Estate License in Missouri

Real estate is something that appeals to a lot of people. It’s a flexible career with plenty of chances for growth – not to mention lucrative income-earning opportunities. Among all of the different ways to start a career with real estate, becoming a licensed real estate agent is one of the best career tracks. And if you’re located in Missouri, the process of getting licensed isn’t nearly as challenging as you might think.

Is a Real Estate License Right for You?

First off, you need to make sure that getting a real estate license is the right move for you. Because while it’s a fairly straightforward process, it does require some time, work, and expense. Here are a few factors that indicate a career in real estate is the right fit:

  • You’re tired of working for other people and want to be your own boss. You desire the flexibility to set your schedule, work the hours you want to work, and call your own shots.
  • You don’t want to spend four years obtaining an expensive degree just to make a career pivot. You’d rather get started in a matter of weeks or months.
  • You’re tired of a salary that’s set in stone. You want unlimited income earning potential that’s directly correlated to hard work and effort. 
  • You want a career that’s challenging and continually evolving. You like the process of growing and improving over time.
  • You’re a people person who likes meeting and interacting with new people on a daily basis.
  • You want a career that provides future flexibility to effortlessly pivot into other niches. 
  • You want a career that provides you with real life skills and strengthens your existing talents.

If you answered yes to most or all of these points, then a career as a real estate agent is something that you’ll find rewarding and enjoyable. 

5 Tips for Getting Your Missouri Real Estate License

In order to legally call yourself a real estate agent in the state of Missouri and represent buyers and sellers in transactions, you must obtain your Missouri Real Estate License. The process isn’t complicated, but it is something that you have to follow with precision.

Here’s what the process looks like:

  • Complete the 72-Hour Pre-License Courses

Before you can apply for the state licensing exam, you must first complete 72 hours worth of pre-license education. This comes in the form of two courses:

  • The 48-hour salesperson pre-examination course
  • The 24-hour real estate practice course

You’ll have to pass a final exam for each course before you’re allowed to schedule the state licensing exam. You can increase your chances of passing these courses by choosing a good online Missouri real estate school.

  • Pass the State Licensing Exam

Next comes the state licensing exam. This is an in-person exam that requires you to pass both a “national” portion, as well as a “state” portion. You must answer 70 out of 100 national questions correctly, as well as 30 out of 40 state questions. 

  • Get Fingerprinted

Once you pass both of your exams, it’s time to get fingerprinted at an IDEMIA location. This will require you to register with the Missouri Automated Criminal History Site (MACHS).

  • Apply for Your License

“After you have met the eligibility requirements and passed the examination, you may apply for your real estate salesperson’s or broker’s license,” The Missouri Real Estate Commission explains. “You must submit your application for license to the Missouri Real Estate Commission within six months of the date of your 48-hour pre-examination course completion.” 

If you have specific questions about applying for your license, you can contact the Missouri Real Estate Commission directly. 

  • Find a Broker

In order to practice real estate, you’ll need to find a broker. This process is known as hanging your license.

There are lots of brokers to choose from, so you’ll need to make your decision wisely. Some will take as much as 25 to 40 percent of your sales commissions, while others will only require a small flat fee. Research your options, weigh the pros and cons, and interview with a couple of different brokers to see which one you like best.

Enjoy Your New Career

A career in real estate is rewarding and meaningful. It gives you the opportunity to be flexible and to feel like you’re actively helping people improve their lives. If this is something that intrigues you, then we’d highly recommend pursuing it. Whether you’re in Missouri or another state, the process tends to be fairly simple and straightforward. It’s up to you to put in the work!

Rylie Holt