How to become a real estate agent in Nebraska
This guide will provide a clear, step-by-step path to becoming a real estate agent in the Cornhusker State.
Table of contents
Step 1: Meet Nebraska’s basic requirements and complete your pre-licensing education
Step 2: Submit your background check and application
Step 3: Pass the Nebraska real estate exam
Step 4: Secure a sponsoring broker
Step 5: Obtain Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance and finalize your license
How to get your real estate license in Nebraska
Ready to start your journey to a successful real estate career? Here are the five key steps and license requirements to become a real estate salesperson in Nebraska.
Step 1
Meet Nebraska’s basic requirements and complete your pre-licensing education
Before you can dive into your new career, you must meet the state’s licensing requirements established by the Nebraska Real Estate Commission (NREC) and complete the required education.
- Age requirement: You must be at least 19 years old at the time the license is issued.
- Education requirement: You must be a high school graduate or hold a certificate of equivalency (GED).
- Total hours: 96
Colibri Real Estate empowers aspiring agents to start their careers by offering comprehensive and flexible online pre-licensing courses. Join over 1.5 million students who have trusted us to help them find success.
Step 2
Submit your background check and application
The Nebraska Real Estate License Act requires all applicants to undergo a criminal background check using fingerprints. You will submit your fingerprint cards to the Nebraska State Patrol. It typically takes four to six weeks for the background report to be received by the Commission. During this time, you should submit your complete application and examination fees to the Commission to prequalify for the exam.
Step 3
Pass the Nebraska real estate exam
Once the NREC approves your application and background check, you’ll receive a letter approving you to sit for the examination. The exam is administered by PSI. Make sure you bring a photo ID to the testing center.
To prepare for exam day, ensure you feel confident in both national real estate concepts and Nebraska-specific laws.
Step 4
Secure a sponsoring broker
To begin your career as an active real estate salesperson, you must be sponsored by a licensed Nebraska broker. This is a significant decision that will shape your professional journey. Take the time to interview several brokerages to find the right fit. When you meet with them, inquire about:
- Mentorship programs: Do they provide new agents with ongoing education and hands-on support to help you succeed?
- Commission splits: Ensure you have a clear understanding of how commissions are divided.
- Company culture: A visit to the office can help you determine if the professional environment aligns with your personal values and career goals.
Step 5
Obtain E&O Insurance and finalize your license
In Nebraska, all active real estate licensees are required to maintain Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance coverage. You’ll need to provide proof of this insurance before your active license can be issued. A group coverage policy is available through the Commission’s Program Administrator, or you can find equivalent coverage through another qualified carrier.
Once you have passed the exam, secured a sponsoring broker, obtained E&O insurance, and paid your licensing fee, your license can be issued. This is the final step toward launching your successful real estate career.
After earning your Nebraska real estate license, you must complete post-licensing education to maintain it. New licensees are required to complete 12 hours of commission-approved post-licensing coursework within the first year of licensure.
Learn more: How much commission do real estate agents make in Nebraska?
Start your journey as a real estate agent today
Getting your real estate license in Nebraska is easier than you think, especially with Colibri Real Estate. Our flexible, state-approved online courses and expert instructors make it simple to get started and stay on track. Plus, we offer a Pass or Don’t Pay Guarantee, which shows we stand behind our product.
With built-in support and proven training trusted by over 1.5 million professionals, you’ll have everything you need to move quickly from learning to licensed. Start your journey today and take the first step toward your new career.
FAQs
Starting a real estate business is incredibly affordable compared to some career switches. Your estimated costs will include:
Nebraska real estate licensing cost
– Pre-licensing courses $350 – $800
– Application fee $175
– Examination fee $150 (per attempt)
– Fingerprinting/background check approx. $40
– Total approximate cost $715 – $1,165
Note: These costs are subject to change.
On average, the entire real estate licensing process in Nebraska takes about three to six months. The Commission’s application review and fingerprint background check typically take four to six weeks to process. Your personal timeline depends on your schedule. If you treat your online courses like a full-time job, you can complete the required coursework quickly and move on to the testing and application process.