How to become a real estate agent in Minnesota
Minnesota real estate agents are licensed by the Minnesota Department of Commerce. Here is what it takes to work as a licensed real estate agent in Minnesota, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Part of the state's website could not be reached when we checked, so some details come from Minnesota law and official forms. Confirm them on the official page before you apply.
Who can become a real estate agent in Minnesota?
- At least 18 years old when you apply
- Must be associated with a licensed real estate broker, who submits the application
Minnesota real estate agent license requirements
| Licensed by | Minnesota Department of Commerce |
|---|---|
| License name | Real Estate Salesperson |
| Education or training | Three 30-hour prelicense courses (Course I, Course II and Course III), 90 hours total. Course I must be completed before the exam; Courses II and III before applying. |
| Exam | PSI Services administers the salesperson exam, which has state and national portions; you must apply for the license within one year of passing. |
| Works under a broker | Yes. You cannot be licensed without first associating with an actively licensed broker, and only that broker can submit your application. You may be licensed to only one broker at a time. |
| License term | 24-month license period, renewed by the broker by June 30. |
| Continuing education | 30 hours each 24-month period, with at least 15 in the first 12 months; this includes a required general module and at least 1 hour each of agency law and fair housing. |
How much does it cost?
| Initial salesperson license (includes $30 education, research and recovery fund), plus technology surcharge | $100 |
|---|---|
| Salesperson license renewal (includes $20 recovery fund), plus technology surcharge | $60 |
Fees as listed by the state. Schools, courses, exam prep, insurance and equipment cost extra and vary by provider.
Steps to become a real estate agent in Minnesota
- Complete Course I (30 hours) with a Commerce-approved provider
- Schedule and pass the salesperson exam through PSI
- Complete Course II and Course III (30 hours each)
- Associate with a licensed Minnesota broker
- Have your broker submit the license application in PULSE within one year of passing the exam
- Receive notice that Commerce approved your license
Apply on the official Minnesota site
How do you check a real estate agent's license in Minnesota?
- Ask for the license number and confirm it with the Minnesota Department of Commerce.
- Check that the status is active and the name matches the person or company you're hiring.
- Ask how long they've been licensed and whether any complaints or discipline are on record.