Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IA Board of Business
Real Estate Agent Licensing in Iowa
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for real estate agent in Iowa, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Real Estate Agent in Iowa
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: Specific type of conviction prohibited
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing • Professional Licensing & Regulation Bureau
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$36,420 median (35% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#50 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in Iowa
With a median salary of 36,420, Real Estate Agents in Iowa earn 35% below the national median of $56,320. Iowa ranks #50 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$36,420Hourly estimate
$17.5135% below national median
Difference: -$19,900
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationReal Estate Agent Salary Ranking
#50 of 50 statesfor Real Estate Agent median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | New York | 97,440 |
| #2 | Alaska | 85,800 |
| #3 | Massachusetts | 85,170 |
| #4 | Vermont | 82,630 |
| #5 | New Mexico | 79,790 |
Nearby States Comparison
Real Estate Agent licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | $36,420 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $47,650 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $49,480 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $51,210 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $38,910 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Nebraska | $48,550 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $54,410 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wisconsin | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Illinois | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Missouri | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Nebraska | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing • Professional Licensing & Regulation Bureau
6200 Park Avenue Des Moines, IA 50321, Suite 100, Des Moines, IA, 50309
Phone: 5157259022
Related Careers in Iowa
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $86,990 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $74,290 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $94,500 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $81,790 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Real Estate Agent in Iowa?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Real Estate Agents in Iowa?
Iowa lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Real Estate Agents.
What education do you need to become a Real Estate Agent in Iowa?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Real Estate Agent licensure in Iowa.
What is the typical Real Estate Agent salary in Iowa?
The median annual salary for Real Estate Agents in Iowa is 36,420. Salaries range from $21,770 (10th percentile) to $77,990 (90th percentile).
How does the Real Estate Agent salary in Iowa compare to the national average?
Real Estate Agents in Iowa earn 35% below the national median of $56,320, with a state median of 36,420.
How many Real Estate Agents work in Iowa?
Iowa employs approximately 670 Real Estate Agents according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Real Estate Agent license to Iowa from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Real Estate Agents in Iowa?
The licensing agency is Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing / Professional Licensing & Regulation Bureau. Review agency details at http://www.plb.iowa.gov/.