If you’re looking to get a real estate license in North Dakota and are confused about where to begin, then you’ve come to the right place.
Here, we’re going to give you an updated (2023) guide on how to get a real estate license online in North Dakota. With this, you’ll know exactly where to begin, all the requirements, and much more.
So let’s get started!
Real Estate License Qualifications in North Dakota
To be eligible for a real estate license, you must:
- Be at least 18-years old
- Hold a high-school diploma or GED
- Be a US citizen or legal alien
That’s it!
The 5 Steps to Getting a Real Estate License Online in North Dakota
Here’s a summary of the 5 steps required to obtain a real estate license:
Step 1: Take a real estate pre-licensing course
Step 2: Submit a salesperson license application and criminal history record
Step 3: Pass the North Dakota real estate exam
Step 4: Get sponsored by a broker
Step 5: Submit the final license application
Let’s look at these steps in more detail.
Step 1: Take a real estate pre-licensing course
Just recently, North Dakota changed its licensing procedure in favor of a longer pre-licensing course amounting to 90 hours instead of the previous 45-hour course.
So to kick off your real estate licensing journey, you’ll need to register for a 90-hour real estate pre-licensing course.
Most real estate schools require you to pass an end-of-course exam, in which you’ll normally have to score somewhere between 70%-75%.
If you pass, you’ll receive a certificate of completion. This certificate is required for the final license application process.
Now, if you’re looking for an easy and convenient way to get done with the educational requirements, the CE Shop provides online pre-licensing in North Dakota. Here, you can learn everything you need to know from the comfort of your home.
Additionally, the CE Shop boasts a first-time pass rate above 90% and promises to offer you a 30-day no-fuss refund if you don’t like the course.
Step 2: Submit a salesperson license application and criminal history record
After you’ve completed the pre-licensing course, you’ll have to submit a real estate license application, along with a background check, to the North Dakota Real Estate Commission (NDREC).
To do that, fill out the license application form, criminal history record form, and a $158 payment (can be paid online at realestatend.org/pay-bill).
Send this to the NDREC. In return, they will mail you a fingerprint test kit that can be completed at a fingerprint center.
Then you will have to mail back the documents and fingerprint copies to the following address:
1120 College Dr Ste 204,
Bismarck,
ND 58501
The fingerprinting process has a $40.25 fee that must be paid to the ND Attorney General by money order or through cheque. Keep in mind that some fingerprinting locations may charge separate fees as well.
Note: if you have been convicted of a crime, it’s best to do this process even before taking a real estate pre-licensing course. This is because, while felons are still eligible for a license, the final decision will depend on the commission and the crime committed.
For more information, consult these state guidelines
Step 3: Pass the North Dakota real estate exam
Once the NDREC accepts your application, you’ll receive an ID that’ll allow you to apply for the North Dakota real state exam conducted by the PSI.
Get a list of examination centers in North Dakota here.
Note: when you arrive at the center, make sure you bring 2 proofs of identification and a fee of $130.
As for the exam itself, it contains 140 questions (100 questions for the national portion and 40 questions for the state portion).
You have to complete it within 3.5 hours and pass with a score of at least 75%.
Step 4: Get sponsored by a broker
The next step is to get sponsored by a broker.
It’s important to consider all local brokers and evaluate them on their reputation, commission structure, and corporate culture.
If you’re planning to do real estate full time, you may prefer a highly experienced broker that may have a more formal work culture and office timings. At this stage, while you may not receive high commission rates, you should focus on gaining valuable experience.
If you’re planning to do real estate part-time, you may prefer a broker that has a hands-off approach, with flexible work timings and lower fees to support your income.
You also need to take Errors and Omission insurance if your broker doesn’t already support such.
Step 5: Submit the final license application
Finally, it’s time to submit the final license application.
First, fill out this application form. Then, send it, along with the other documents (certificate of completion, North Dakota real estate exam score, fingerprinting, etc…) to the commission at the following address:
1120 College Dr Ste 204,
Bismarck,
ND 58501
Real Estate License in North Dakota FAQs
How long is the real estate pre-licensing course in North Dakota?
The pre-licensing course in North Dakota used to be 45 hours with an additional post-licensing course to be completed after you received a real estate license.
However, North Dakota has scrapped the post-licensing requirements in favor of a 90-hour pre-licensing course.
While the course may seem a bit long, there aren’t any mandated timers in the online course. This means you can complete this course in less than 90 hours if you’re a fast learner.
When do I have to do real estate CE courses in North Dakota?
In North Dakota, you have to complete 9 hours of CE courses annually in order to renew your real estate license. In addition to the CE courses, you’ll have to pay a $125 renewal fee.
Completing these courses can be a pain, especially since you have to do it every year. The good news is that you can take these CE courses online as well.
If you’re looking for a reliable real estate school that offers online CE courses, we highly recommend McKissock.
Not only will you get all CE courses in the state (if you avail of their membership package), but you’ll also get great resources, such as 100+ job aides, coaching tools, 90-day boot camp, and so much more. The best part is that you get all this for only $116!
Should I choose online or in-person real estate courses?
While in-person courses are preferred by some people, thanks to the networking opportunities and direct interaction with your instructors, the course can be difficult to attend due to the rigid class timings.
This is where online courses shine. It allows you to complete all the educational requirements from the comfort of your home, giving you control over your study schedule.
Additionally, online courses often come loaded with extra features and tools such as flashcards and minigames to make learning much more engaging.
Video-based live streaming online courses also exist. So you can still interact with your instructors while at home.
How much do real estate courses cost in North Dakota?
Of course, the cost of real estate courses depends on the school and learning method you choose.
However, for a rough estimate, in-person schooling tends to be more expensive overall with prices well above $600. Online courses are cheaper with multiple course packages to suit every budget, starting from as low as $300.
Conclusion
So how do you get a real estate license online in North Dakota?
It only requires 5 steps.
Sure, it will take time, dedication, and investment. But if you’re determined, then you’ll be able to complete the steps and starting your new career in no time!
So what are you waiting for?
Register for a pre-licensing course today and get started with your journey!
Good luck!