How to Get a North Dakota Real Estate License: Step-by-Step Guide

A career in real estate can offer flexibility, substantial earning potential, and the satisfaction of helping individuals with some of life’s most important transactions. If you’re considering becoming a real estate agent in North Dakota, you’re in the right place. Below is a detailed, step-by-step guide explaining the requirements, costs, and process to get your North Dakota real estate license—followed by FAQs to address common questions.

How to Get Your Real Estate License in North Dakota

Becoming a licensed real estate agent involves a few key milestones—each one bringing you closer to launching your new profession.

Here’s what the process looks like:

1. Meet the Basic Eligibility Requirements
2. Complete 45 Hours of Pre-Licensing Education
3. Apply for the North Dakota Real Estate Exam
4. Pass the North Dakota Real Estate Exam
5. Submit to a Background Check and Fingerprinting
6. Find a Sponsoring Broker
7. Submit Your Application to the North Dakota Real Estate Commission

Each of these steps helps you build a solid foundation for a long-term, successful career in real estate. Ready to dive in? Let’s explore what each stage involves and how to navigate it with confidence..

1. Meet the Basic Eligibility Requirements

Before diving into your real estate journey in North Dakota, make sure you meet these basic requirements:

• You must be at least 18 years old.
• You must have a high school diploma or GED equivalent.
• You should be legally eligible to work in the U.S. and have no disqualifying criminal record.

Double-checking these qualifications before enrolling in a real estate licensing course can help you avoid unnecessary delays and keep your career goals on track. If you meet these criteria, you’re ready to take the first big step toward becoming a licensed real estate agent in North Dakota.

2. Complete 90 Hours of Pre-Licensing Education

In North Dakota, individuals aiming to become real estate salespersons must complete a 90-hour pre-license course approved by the North Dakota Real Estate Commission (NDREC) before applying for a license. This foundational training covers key concepts that will shape your real estate career, including:

• Real Estate Practices
• Real Estate License Law
• Ethics and Professional Responsibilities
• Real Estate Principles

You will take tests related to the courses you need to pass within the program. This is to obtain your completion certificate! Your education provider will issue a certificate to reflect your progress after you pass the final exam for each subject. 

To demonstrate that you have fulfilled the state's pre-licensing education requirements, you must present these certificates.

3. Apply for the North Dakota Real Estate Exam

Once you’ve completed your 90 hours of pre-licensing education, it’s time to take the next big step—applying for the North Dakota real estate exam. Here's a breakdown to guide you through it:

• Set Up Your PSI Account: Head to PSI’s website and click “Sign In / Create Account.” If it’s your first time, use the same email you gave your real estate school. Your username will be ND + the last 6 digits of your Social Security Number.
• Fill Out Your Profile: Enter the required info (anything marked with an asterisk is mandatory) and create a password.
• Schedule Your Exam: Once your profile is good to go, you can choose your testing location, date, and time—all from your account dashboard.
• Understand Who’s in Charge: PSI is the official testing partner for the North Dakota Real Estate Commission. They’ll handle everything from scheduling and proctoring to scoring.
• Know the Costs: The current fee is $131 for both the national and state exam sections. This may change, so always double-check the latest rates.
• Get Commission Approval First: Before you can register with PSI, you’ll need to submit your exam application to the North Dakota Real Estate Commission and wait for their approval.
• Don’t Skip the PSI Bulletin: This document includes all the fine print—ID requirements, test-day procedures, what to expect on the exam, and more. Definitely worth a read!

Taking a little time to get familiar with the process now will make exam day feel way more manageable.

4. Pass the North Dakota Real Estate Exam

The North Dakota Real Estate Exam is your chance to show what you’ve learned and prove you’re ready to start your career. It’s designed to test your understanding of both national and North Dakota-specific real estate principles.

Here’s what to expect:

• National Portion: 100 multiple-choice questions
• State Portion: 40 multiple-choice questions
• Total Time: 3.5 hours to complete the full exam

To pass, you’ll need to get at least 70 questions right on the national section and 30 right on the state section.

It’s a big step—but with solid preparation and the right mindset, you’ve got this!

The key to passing the exam is preparation—and a little strategy goes a long way. Start by reviewing your course materials thoroughly. Make use of practice exams and study guides to get comfortable with the question format and timing.

And if you really want to walk in feeling confident, consider our Exam Prep Package. This includes targeted practice tests, easy-to-follow study guides, and review materials built around North Dakota’s exam structure. A little extra prep can make a big difference—especially if it means passing on your first try.

5. Submit to a Background Check and Fingerprinting

Before you can get licensed, you’ll need to complete a criminal background check—including fingerprinting. This step helps protect the integrity of the real estate industry and ensures all agents meet the state’s standards.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Fingerprinting Fees: You’ll typically pay around $40–$50 for processing. Check with the North Dakota Real Estate Commission for the most current pricing and instructions.
• Clean Record: It’s important that your record is in good standing before moving forward with your license application.

Taking care of this step early helps keep your licensing process smooth and stress-free.

6. Find a Sponsoring Broker

In North Dakota, one of your first big decisions is choosing a sponsoring broker—and it’s a crucial one. As a new agent, you’re required to work under the supervision of a licensed real estate broker. But the right broker does more than just meet legal requirements—they help launch your career.

Here’s what a great sponsoring broker typically offers:

• Mentorship & Training: Hands-on guidance through your first deals, contracts, and client interactions.
• Lead Generation & Marketing Support: Some brokers provide leads, marketing materials, or advertising tools to help you grow faster.
• Operational Support: Access to systems that streamline your daily tasks, like transaction management, CRM platforms, and scheduling tools.

When comparing brokers, ask about commission splits, new agent training programs, office culture, and tech tools they provide. Finding the right real estate brokerage in North Dakota can make all the difference in how quickly you gain confidence and close your first deal.

7. Submit Your Application to the North Dakota Real Estate Commission

To successfully complete your application and take the final step toward becoming a licensed real estate agent in North Dakota, you’ll need to submit the following required documents. These ensure that you’ve met all the necessary criteria to practice real estate in the state:

• Course Completion Certificates: Proof that you've successfully finished your pre-licensing education.
• Exam Pass Notification: Official notice that you’ve passed both portions of the state exam.
• Fingerprinting and Background Check Results: Documentation to ensure you're clear to practice real estate.
• Sponsoring Broker Information: Details about the broker you're working with.
• Application Fee: The $150 fee to process your application.

Once your application is approved, you’ll receive your real estate license from the North Dakota Real Estate Commission, and you'll be all set to start your exciting new career in real estate!

FAQs About Getting a Real Estate License in North Dakota

Now that you have an overview of the licensing process, let’s tackle some commonly asked questions.

How much do North Dakota real estate agents make?

Real estate agents earn commission-based incomes, meaning earnings vary depending on factors like location, experience, and brokerage support. Agents who focus on lead generation, networking, and professional growth often exceed average income levels.

In North Dakota, salaries can differ widely. Indeed reports the average annual salary for a real estate agent is $128,403, while ZipRecruiter lists it as $90,776 as of March 2025.

Key factors influencing income include:

• Location: High-demand markets typically offer higher earning potential.
• Experience: Experienced agents with strong networks often earn more.
• Brokerage Support: Brokers providing training and resources can boost agents’ sales.

Understanding these factors can help you maximize your earning potential in North Dakota’s real estate market!

How much does a North Dakota real estate license cost?

Becoming a real estate agent involves several key costs, but understanding these expenses upfront can help you plan and budget accordingly. 

Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:

• Pre-Licensing Courses: Typically range from $500 to $800, depending on the provider.
• Exam Fee: Around $130 for each portion of the exam.
• License Application Fee: Approximately $150 to process your application.
• Fingerprinting/Background Check: Costs between $40 and $50.

In addition to these essentials, you may encounter optional expenses, such as exam prep materials, memberships in local or state Realtor® associations, and MLS fees. Be sure to budget for these extra costs to ensure you're fully prepared for your new career.

Is becoming a real estate agent in North Dakota worth it?

For many, becoming a licensed real estate agent in North Dakota is more than just a job—it’s a flexible, rewarding career path with long-term potential.

Here are a few key benefits of becoming a real estate agent in North Dakota:

• Flexible Schedule: Enjoy the freedom to set your own hours and work independently.
• High Income Potential: Real estate commissions can be especially rewarding in growing markets.
• Meaningful Work: Guide people through major life decisions like buying their first home, selling a property, or making real estate investments.

Of course, real estate is a competitive industry. Your success will largely depend on your drive to keep learning, your ability to market yourself effectively, and your commitment to building strong relationships.

If you’re motivated, enjoy solving problems, and thrive in people-focused environments, a real estate career in North Dakota can offer both personal satisfaction and financial growth.

What should I know before becoming a real estate agent?

Starting your journey as a real estate agent can be exciting—but it’s important to know what you’re stepping into. Like any new career, this field comes with its own challenges, especially in the early stages. Being prepared can make all the difference.

Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• The Learning Curve: From North Dakota real estate laws to contracts, disclosures, and negotiation strategies, there’s a lot to master. Ongoing education and training are essential for long-term success.
• Financial Planning: It may take time to secure your first clients and close deals. Having a financial cushion to cover living expenses during the ramp-up period is key.
• Marketing & Networking: Building your brand and attracting clients requires consistent effort. Social media, open houses, local networking events, and direct outreach are all part of the job.

Entering the real estate industry with realistic expectations, a solid financial plan, and a commitment to building relationships will set you up for success in North Dakota’s market.

Can I get a North Dakota real estate license if I’m already an agent in another state?

​As of April 2025, North Dakota maintains reciprocity agreements with Georgia, Iowa, and Minnesota for real estate licensure. If you hold an active real estate license in good standing from one of these states, you may qualify for a reciprocal North Dakota license without needing to take the state's licensing exam. ​

To apply, you'll typically need to:

• Provide proof of your active license in good standing from your home state.​
• Complete a criminal background check, including fingerprinting.​
• Submit the required application forms and fees.​

You must complete the usual application process, which includes passing the national and state-specific sections of the North Dakota real estate exam, if you hold a license from another state. 

Visit the official North Dakota Real Estate Commission website for up-to-date details and comprehensive application instructions.

How often do I renew my North Dakota real estate license?

In North Dakota, your real estate license needs to be renewed each year by December 31, and you'll need to complete your continuing education (CE) requirements by November 15. To keep your license active, you’ll need to finish 12 hours of CE through courses approved by the North Dakota Real Estate Commission (NDREC).

Out of the 12 hours, 3 hours are mandatory, covering topics like diversity, equity, inclusion, and real estate fraud prevention. The remaining 6 hours are elective, giving you the flexibility to focus on areas of real estate that matter most to you. If you're renewing for the first time, you’re in luck—there's no CE requirement during your initial renewal cycle.

Be sure to plan ahead and knock out your CE courses early, so you can breeze through your renewal process without any last-minute stress.

What should I do after getting my North Dakota real estate license?

Once you’ve completed your real estate training and passed the exam, the real journey begins! Here are a few tips to jumpstart your real estate career and position yourself for long-term success:

1. Partner with the Right Brokerage: If you haven’t already, find a sponsoring broker to work under. Their mentorship and expertise will play a vital role in helping you navigate your first few transactions and build a strong foundation for your career.
2. Build Your Client Base: Networking is key! Use both online and offline methods to connect with potential clients. Host open houses, engage on social media, and ask satisfied clients for referrals to grow your reputation.
3. Continue Learning: Keep your edge sharp by pursuing additional certifications, like the REALTOR® designation. You can also specialize in lucrative areas like commercial real estate, luxury homes, or property management to attract higher-end clients.
4. Market Yourself: Build a professional website, get active on social media platforms, and invest in branding materials such as business cards and brochures. Consistent self-promotion helps establish your presence in a competitive market.

By focusing on continuous education and smart marketing strategies, you’ll be well-equipped to grow your real estate career and stand out in this real estate market.

Final Thoughts on Getting a Real Estate License in North Dakota

Earning your real estate license in North Dakota is the first step toward a rewarding and lucrative career. Each step, from finishing your pre-licensing courses to passing the exam and choosing the right broker, brings you closer to launching a rewarding career in real estate.

Excited to take the next step? Enroll in our North Dakota real estate licensing program today and start your journey toward becoming a confident, skilled real estate professional. With expert-led courses, flexible scheduling, and a supportive team by your side, we’re here to help you succeed at every stage of your career.