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Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Real Estate Salesperson

Michigan is one of the only real estate markets expected to grow in 2019. If you’re ready to get licensed, here is everything you need to know.

How do I get a Michigan real estate salesperson license?

  1. Complete an approved 40 hour Michigan Real Estate Fundamentals Course.
    All potential salespeople in Michigan must complete an approved 40 Hour course. Real Estate Training Institute offers this course online in HD video so you can fit it into your busy schedule. The onscreen instructor, Gwyn Besner is available to answer any questions you have while taking the course.
  2. Submit your real estate license application.
    Go to www.michigan.gov/icola to apply for a license. Upon accessing iCOLA, you will be asked to create an account, pay your license fee, and submit your license application electronically.
    NOTE: You do not need to have a broker at the time you submit the license application. If you list your employing broker’s 10-digit number when applying, please inform your employer that you have submitted your license application. Your employing broker should then access his or her iCOLA account and confirm sponsorship.  Broker information may be supplied to the State of Michigan at a later time using the Employee Broker Notification Form. Your license application will remain in a “Pending” Status in their system until broker sponsorship is confirmed, or for one year from the date of application.
  3. Register with PSI and pay the $79 exam fee.
    To schedule your exam date, call PSI at 1-800-733-9267 or register online. Use the 24/7 Automated Registration System or speak with a representative between 7:30 A.M. to 8:00 P.M. ET.
  4. You will be informed immediately after the exam whether you passed or not. PSI will import your exam data into your iCOLA record within 48 hours of successful completion of the exam.  Once your exam score is received by the Department and your broker is confirmed, the State-issued paper wall license and a pocket card will be mailed to your employing broker’s main office.

Where is the Michigan real estate salesperson exam offered?

  • Gaylord
  • Grand Rapids
  • Holt
  • Marquette
  • Southfield

What are the initial real estate licensing fees in Michigan?

Michigan operates on a three-year cycle so initial licensing fees decrease each year. 2018 is the last year of a licensing cycle and fees are as follows:
Brokers & Associate Brokers: $71
Salesperson: $62
Branch Office: $30

Who do I contact at the state level about getting a Michigan real estate license?

Contact Information

Licensing and Regulatory Affairs
Board of Real Estate Brokers & Salespersons
Website:  http://www.michigan.gov/realestate
Phone:  517-241-9288

Licensing References

Michigan Real Estate – Frequently Asked Questions
Michigan Real Estate Brokers and Salespersons — Occupational Code


Licensing Resources

Should You Get A Real Estate License?

Why You Should Upgrade to A Broker License

Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a Broker License


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