How to Get Your Real Estate License in Kentucky: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you're considering a career in real estate in Kentucky, you're in the right place! This guide breaks down the exact steps (with estimated costs and timelines) you'll need to follow to become a licensed real estate agent in the Bluegrass State.
1. ✅ Meet the Basic Eligibility Requirements
Before you begin, make sure you meet the following minimum qualifications:
Be at least 18 years old
Hold a high school diploma or GED equivalent
Be lawfully eligible to work in the United States
2. 📚 Complete Pre-Licensing Education — Starting at $359
You’ll need to complete 96 hours of Kentucky Real Estate Commission (KREC)-approved coursework.
Here are two trusted, accredited course providers:
💡 Tip: Choose a course that includes exam prep tools to increase your chances of passing the licensing test the first time.
3. 🧾 Pass a Background Check — $51
Before taking the licensing exam or submitting your application, you'll need to complete a national criminal background check. Start early—it can take a few weeks.
Option 1: FBI
Cost: $18
Submit via: www.edo.cjis.gov
Report is mailed to you (approx. 1 week)
Option 2: Kentucky State Police
Cost: $51.25
Schedule at: uenroll.identogo.com
KREC Service Code: 27GJR5
Report is sent directly to KREC
4. 📝 Register & Pass the Licensing Exam — Approx. $100
Once your education is complete, it’s time to schedule your exam through PSI (Kentucky’s testing provider).
The exam includes:
National Portion – General real estate knowledge
State Portion – Kentucky-specific laws
You must score 75% or higher on each section to pass.
5. ✍️ Apply for Your License — Approximately $130
After passing the exam, submit your Sales Associate License Application through KREC.
Submission Options:
a. Mail Submission:
You’ll receive a paper application at the test site. Mail it to the Commission with payment by check or money order.
b. Online Submission:
Within 36–48 hours of passing the exam, you’ll receive an email from ppc.krec@ky.gov with instructions. Complete the application and pay online by card or e-check.
⚠️ You must apply within 60 days of passing the exam.
Your fingerprints must have been submitted within the past 90 days.
6. 🤝 Affiliate with a Licensed Kentucky Broker
Before you can begin practicing, you must be affiliated with a licensed real estate broker.
Considering a team? Learn more here:
7. 🏡 Join the MLS & NKAR — Estimated $1,258.37 Upfront
Once affiliated, you’ll join the MLS (Multiple Listing Service) and NKAR (Northern Kentucky Association of Realtors). You’ll receive access to ShowingTime, NRDS number, MLS login, and more.
Here’s a cost breakdown (for May joiners):
NKAR & KYR Application Fee: $455.00
MLS Application Fee: $100.00
Supra E-Key Activation Fee: $50.00
Prorated MLS Subscription (based on $620/yr): $103.34
Supra E-Key Service ($212/year): $159.00
Local, State & National Dues (2025): $391.03
💰 Total Initial Cost: $1,258.37
Annual Renewal Expenses (after first year):
February: $212 – Supra Key
June: $620 – MLS Dues
October: $564 – Local/State/National Dues
8. 🧑🏫 New Member Orientation & Code of Ethics
Within your first 30 days as a member, you must complete:
Online New Member Orientation
Code of Ethics Training
✅ This is a free, self-paced course that also counts toward your CE and PLE requirements.
9. 📘 Complete Post-Licensing Education (PLE)
Within 2 years of being licensed, you must complete 48 hours of Post-Licensing Education.
Suggested provider: Colibri Real Estate
🔁 Quick Snapshot: Your Roadmap
Step Task Estimated Time
1 Pre-licensing Education 4 weeks – 3 months (self-paced)
2 Background Check 2–4 weeks
3 Take Licensing Exam 1–2 weeks of prep
4 Apply for License Immediately after passing exam
5 Find a Broker & Affiliate 1–4 weeks
6 Launch Your Real Estate Career Ongoing
📌 Additional Tips for Success:
Stay organized. Use a checklist to track progress and deadlines.
Study thoroughly. The Kentucky-specific material is often the most challenging.
Start networking early. Connect with brokers and local agents while still in class.
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Get your Ohio real estate license. Check out this blog about getting your Ohio real estate license >>> HERE
RECIPROCTY. Did you know the reciprocity rules between states changed recently? Ask us about our reciprocity bootcamp where we help agents like yourself get that DUAL LICENSE status 💯
💬 Need Help?
Kentucky Real Estate Commission (KREC)
Website: https://krec.ky.gov
Phone: (502) 564-7760
** This information is intended to be a general guide, always check with your local administration like the KREC to get the most up to date and accurate information to successfully get your license.
