Real Estate Agent License: California vs Illinois
Thinking about getting your real estate agent license? Here's how California and Illinois compare on education requirements, exam fees, total costs, and renewal obligations.
| Requirement | California | Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| Education Hours | 135 hours | 75 hours |
| Exam | California Real Estate Salesperson Exam | Illinois Real Estate Salesperson Exam |
| Application Fee | $245 | $125 |
| Exam Fee | $60 | $55 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $1,385 - $2,330 | $780 - $1,305 |
| Renewal Period | Every 4 years | Every 2 years |
| CE Hours | 45 hours | 12 hours |
| Renewal Fee | $245 | $150 |
Which State Is Easier or Cheaper?
Lower cost: Illinois is the more affordable option, with an average total cost of $780-$1,305 compared to $1,385-$2,330.
Fewer education hours: Illinois requires 75 hours of pre-license education, compared to 135 hours in California.
Full State Guides
Compare real estate agent requirements across all 50 states →