Real Estate Agent Permit Requirements in Chicago, IL

Complete permit and license guide for starting a real estate agent in Chicago, Cook County, Illinois.

$600 -- $1500 4–14 weeks to obtain license and begin practice 4 requirements

Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: .

Chicago / Cook County Requirements

1 requirement
1

City of Chicago — No Additional Local License Required for Agents

Real estate brokers in Chicago are licensed at the state level through Illinois DFPR. Chicago does not require a separate city-level real estate license for individual brokers. If operating an independent brokerage, a general Chicago business license from BACP may be required.

No additional fee for individual agentsN/A
Official government source

Illinois State Requirements

2 requirements
1

Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation — Managing Broker License

Illinois requires real estate broker licensees to complete 75 hours of pre-licensing education (including a 15-hour Applied Real Estate Principles interactive course), pass the Illinois Real Estate Broker Examination, and apply to the Illinois DFPR. Licensees must affiliate with a sponsoring broker.

$55 (exam fee) + $150 (license fee) + $300–$600 (pre-licensing education)4–12 weeks
Official government source
2

Errors & Omissions (E&O) Insurance

Most real estate brokerages require agents to carry Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance, which protects against claims of negligent acts or omissions in real estate transactions. Some states mandate it; most brokerages require it. Coverage typically starts at $100,000 per occurrence.

$300–$800/year1–5 business days
Official government source

Federal Requirements

1 requirement
1

EIN (Employer Identification Number)

Required if you operate as an LLC, corporation, or have employees. Free from the IRS. Even sole proprietors may benefit from obtaining an EIN to keep business and personal finances separate.

FreeImmediate (online application)
Official government source

Official Sources

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