Frequently Asked Questions
(FAQ)
Where can I find my course completion certificates?
Your certificates are always available in your Student Dashboard under completed courses: https://iowarealestateacademy.com
How do I get started in the real estate industry?
To begin a career in real estate in Iowa, you must first obtain a license. Follow this official guide from the Iowa Professional Licensing Bureau:
Step-by-Step: Salesperson by Exam – https://dial.iowa.gov/licenses/other-professional-licensure/real-estate-licensees#salesperson-by-exam
What can I do with an Iowa real estate license?
A real estate license opens the door to many specialties:
– Residential and commercial sales
– Land, agricultural, and industrial properties
– Investment property advising
– Property management
– Real estate development or flipping
– Personal investing and referrals
What courses are required to get licensed?
Iowa requires four pre-license courses:
– 60-Hour Pre-License Course (Live or Online/Self-Study)
– 12-Hour Listing Practices (Live via Zoom)
– 12-Hour Buying Practices (Live via Zoom)
– 12-Hour Developing Professionalism & Ethics (Live via Zoom)
We offer all of these courses year-round.
Can I take all required courses online?
No. Only the 60-Hour Pre-License Course may be completed online/self-paced. The three 12-hour courses (Listing, Buying, and Developing Professionalism & Ethics) must be attended live via Zoom.
What order should I take the courses in?
There’s no required sequence. However, only the 60-Hour Pre-License course must be completed before scheduling the PSI exam.
Do I need to complete all the courses before taking the PSI exam?
No. You only need to complete the 60-hour course and obtain your completion certificate before taking the PSI exam.
How do I register for the PSI exam?
You can register for the exam here: https://www.psiexams.com/test-takers/
For further directions, follow this link: https://iowarealestateacademy.com/psi-testing-info/
Can I take the PSI exam from home?
Yes. PSI now offers a remote testing option in addition to their in-person test centers. Be sure to follow all exam rules for your chosen format. In person test centers are located in Council Bluffs, West Des Moines, and Cedar Rapids.
How many times can I retake the PSI exam?
As many times as needed—no waiting period. You must pay the exam fee each time.
How do I get my background check?
Start here: https://dial.iowa.gov/licenses/other-professional-licensure/real-estate-licensees/re-criminal-history
If you don’t receive your background packet within a week, call the Real Estate Commission at 515-725-9035.
For fingerprinting, contact your local police station for availability & pricing. Digital fingerprinting is now available via Fieldprint.
How much does it cost to become a real estate agent in Iowa?
Estimated Expenses:
– Pre-License Courses (4): $800
– Background Check: $75 ($51 + fingerprinting)
– PSI Exam: $95
– Errors & Omissions Insurance: $150 (prorated)
– License Application: $125
– Local/State/National REALTOR Membership: $900
– Miscellaneous Fees: $200
Estimated Total: $2,345+
How do I choose the right brokerage?
Ask about:
– Commission Splits
– Training & Mentorship
– Culture Fit
Choosing a broker is a business decision—not a lifelong commitment. For an extended review, visit this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oA1hdOV_TU0&t=4s
Do brokers hire new agents?
Yes, many do. Some prefer experienced agents. It’s better for a broker to be upfront if they don’t have the capacity to support a new licensee.
How much money can I make in real estate?
There are no income guarantees. Earnings depend on your efforts, strategy, and the market. Consistency and mindset are key.
What’s the difference between the Iowa Real Estate Commission and the Iowa Association of REALTORS®?
– Iowa Real Estate Commission: Licensing authority
– Iowa Association of REALTORS®: Membership organization offering tools, training, legal support, and advocacy
What’s the difference between a real estate agent and a REALTOR®?
– Real Estate Agent: Licensed by the State of Iowa
– REALTOR®: An agent who joins the National, State, and Local REALTOR® Associations and abides by the Code of Ethics
Can I work in real estate part-time?
Yes. Some brokerages prefer full-time agents, but many are flexible. Success requires good time management.
How many continuing education (CE) hours are required to renew a license?
36 CE Hours every 3 years:
– 8 Hours – Law Update
– 4 Hours – Ethics
– 24 Hours – Electives
At least 12 hours must be live instruction (Zoom counts).
For more details and how to renew your license: https://iowarealestateacademy.com/license-renewal-requirements/
How do I become a licensed real estate broker in Iowa?
Follow the ‘Broker by Exam’ instructions: https://dial.iowa.gov/licenses/other-professional-licensure/real-estate-licensees#broker-by-exam
I’m licensed in another state—do I need all Iowa courses?
Maybe not. Call the licensing specialist at 515-725-9027 to ask about reciprocity.
How long do I have to complete each course?
- For self-paced (online) courses: You have 6 months (180 days) from the date& timestamp of purchase to complete the course.
- For live Zoom classes: You must attend the full scheduled session to receive credit. For full School Policy: https://iowarealestateacademy.com/school-policies/
How long do I have to pass the real estate exam after completing the 60-hour course?
According to the Iowa Real Estate Commission, you have one year to complete all license requirements for your application. In addition, you must apply for your license by the last day of the sixth calendar month after passing the PSI Exam.
Can I retake a course for review if I didn’t pass the PSI exam?
Yes. You can re-enroll in any course, and can review our retake policy here: https://iowarealestateacademy.com/school-policies/
What if I need accommodation for testing or learning?
If you require accommodation (e.g., disability support, language barriers), PSI does offer some accommodation. Please contact them directly and refer to the PSI accommodations page for more details.