Application Fee
See agencyVerified by KY Board of Business
Real Estate Agent Licensing in Kentucky
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for real estate agent in Kentucky, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Real Estate Agent in Kentucky
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Professional Licensing • Kentucky Real Estate Commission
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$39,270 median (30% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#46 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 Kentucky
With a median salary of 39,270, Real Estate Agents in Kentucky earn 30% below the national median of $56,320. Kentucky ranks #46 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$39,270Hourly estimate
$18.8830% below national median
Difference: -$17,050
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationReal Estate Agent Salary Ranking
#46 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | $39,270 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $50,990 | Degree required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $43,860 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $57,550 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $61,790 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $56,320 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $38,910 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $51,210 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Indiana | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Ohio | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| West Virginia | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be 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 Professional Licensing • Kentucky Real Estate Commission
500 Mero Street, 2 18 NC, Frankfort, KY, 40601
Phone: 5025647760
Related Careers in Kentucky
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $93,230 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $72,220 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $100,200 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $79,100 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Real Estate Agent in Kentucky?
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 Kentucky?
Kentucky lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Real Estate Agents.
What education do you need to become a Real Estate Agent in Kentucky?
The board typically expects Degree required for Real Estate Agent licensure in Kentucky.
What is the typical Real Estate Agent salary in Kentucky?
The median annual salary for Real Estate Agents in Kentucky is 39,270. Salaries range from $26,290 (10th percentile) to $99,010 (90th percentile).
How does the Real Estate Agent salary in Kentucky compare to the national average?
Real Estate Agents in Kentucky earn 30% below the national median of $56,320, with a state median of 39,270.
How many Real Estate Agents work in Kentucky?
Kentucky employs approximately 1,320 Real Estate Agents according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Real Estate Agent license to Kentucky 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 Kentucky?
The licensing agency is Department of Professional Licensing / Kentucky Real Estate Commission. Review agency details at http://krec.ky.gov/ppc/new_default.aspx.