How to become a real estate agent in Minnesota
Get your real estate license in Minnesota by completing five straightforward steps.
How to get your real estate license in Minnesota
Follow these five simple steps to earn your license.
Step 1
Meet eligibility requirements
Before you begin, make sure you meet the basic license requirements set by the Minnesota Department of Commerce.
To apply for a real estate license in Minnesota, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Meet general character and fitness requirements
You aren’t automatically disqualified for licensure if you have a criminal history. Applications are reviewed on a case-by-case basis, and you may be asked to provide additional documentation if you have a legal history.
Step 2
Complete pre-licensing education
Minnesota requires you to complete three pre-licensing courses through a Minnesota Department of Commerce-approved provider before you can apply for your license.
- Total hours: 90
You must complete Course I before taking the exam. Courses II and III can be completed after passing the exam but must be finished before your license application is submitted.
Your coursework will cover key topics like real estate principles, Minnesota license law, agency relationships, fair housing, contracts, and property practices. These required classes will prepare you for both the exam and real-world transactions.
You can complete your coursework entirely online, making it easy to balance studying with work and everything else life throws at you. Colibri Real Estate offers online courses so you can study 24/7 on your own schedule. Courses are written by active, seasoned real estate professionals, and with dedicated academic advisors and live Q&A sessions available, you’ll have real support every step of the way. Plus, we offer a Pass or Don’t Pay Guarantee, so you have nothing to lose!
Step 3
Pass the Minnesota licensing exam
After completing Course I, you’re eligible to schedule and sit for the Minnesota real estate salesperson exam. The exam is administered by PSI Services.
The exam has two parts you must pass:
- National portion: 80 scored questions
- State-specific portion: 40 scored questions
A passing score of 75% is required on each section. You can take both parts in one session or separately. If you only fail one section, you only need to retake that section. You must apply for your license within one year of passing the exam, otherwise you’ll need to retake it.
To prepare effectively, focus on practice exams, reviewing key concepts, and using structured exam prep tools.
Step 4
Find a sponsoring brokerage
In Minnesota, you cannot be licensed as a real estate salesperson without first being associated with an actively licensed real estate brokerage. Your broker will also be the one to submit your license application on your behalf through the PULSE online licensing system.
When evaluating brokerages, consider:
- Training and mentorship opportunities
- Commission structure
- Company culture and support
Choosing the right brokerage is an important step in shaping your early career and building a solid foundation for your business.
Step 5
Apply for your Minnesota real estate license
You do not submit your own license application in Minnesota. Once you’ve passed the exam and completed all three pre-licensing courses, your sponsoring broker will submit the application for your salesperson license on your behalf through the PULSE portal.
As part of the process:
- Your broker will need to confirm your association with their company
- Once approved by the Minnesota Department of Commerce, your broker will print your license and notify you that you are licensed
- Make sure all three course completion certificates are in hand before your broker submits the application
Before your broker submits, double-check all name and identity information to avoid delays.
Take the first step toward your Minnesota real estate career
Starting something new can feel intimidating, but becoming a real estate agent can be highly lucrative and give you the flexibility in your schedule you know you need.
Ready to get started? Colibri Real Estate has helped more than 1.5 million aspiring agents take the first step toward their license with confidence. Our Minnesota courses are designed by industry experts and built for flexibility, so you can learn at your own pace while staying on track.
With built-in exam prep, realistic practice tests, and Rubi, your AI-powered study assistant, you’ll have the tools and support you need to prepare effectively and walk into exam day ready. Plus, with our Pass or Don’t Pay Guarantee, you can enroll knowing we stand behind your success every step of the way.
FAQs
Most people complete the licensing process in about three to six months, depending on how quickly they move through their pre-licensing courses and schedule the exam.
Compared with training required for other career switches, the cost of becoming a real estate agent in Minnesota is highly affordable.
Minnesota real estate license costs
– Pre-licensing courses $680 – $1,025
– Exam fee $63 (per attempt)
– License application fee $100 + technology surcharge
– Total approximate cost $843 – $1,188
Minnesota offers license reciprocity agreements with certain states, which may allow out-of-state agents to obtain a Minnesota license more easily. However, you’ll still need to meet specific requirements, which may include passing the Minnesota portion of the exam.