In Oregon, there are two types of real estate broker licenses: broker and principal broker. The Oregon Real Estate Agency (OREA) has different requirements for both, with the main differences being the amount of training and work experience needed.

Broker License

OREA describes an Oregon broker license as entry-level. If you want to start a career in real estate and don't mind supervision from a principal broker, this is the choice for you.

Step 1: Meet OREA’s Pre-Requisite Qualifications

  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Have a high school diploma, GED, or international equivalent

Step 2: Complete the Oregon Broker License Application

Begin the application process by creating an eLicense account. This is Oregon’s online license management system.

Most communications from the agency are through email, so make sure you use an address you check regularly. You’ll need to verify your email address before beginning the application.

There is a $300 nonrefundable application fee that’s payable through eLicense. After your application is processed, you’ll get an Applicant ID number by email.

Step 3: Take Pre-license Education

OREA requires that applicants complete 150 hours of broker pre-license education.

Skip the classroom and take your training at home with our online course packages. The state-approved lessons include interactive video presentations that explain and test your knowledge of subjects covered on the exam.

Step 4: Pass the Broker License Exam

PSI is the license exam provider for the broker exam. The 130-question test includes two portions covering state (50 questions) and national (80 questions) requirements. PSI provides a very detailed exam bulletin that reviews all the topics covered on the exam.

But if you’d rather not spend time looking through the bulletin, check out our exam prep study tool. It quizzes you on topics you’ll see in the exam. Plus, it includes a test simulator and practice exam.

Step 5: Have Your Fingerprints Taken

While at a PSI exam center, you must have your fingerprints taken for the OREA-required background check. The background check process begins during your online application. View a fingerprinting schedule here.

Principal Broker License

Principal brokers in Oregon can conduct real estate activity individually with no supervision and can also supervise brokers, property managers, and other principal brokers. Becoming a principal broker requires more work experience and training.

Step 1: Meet OREA’s Pre-Requisite Qualifications

  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Have a high school diploma, GED, or international equivalent
  • Have three years of active real estate license experience

Step 2: Complete the Oregon Principal Broker License Application

Log in to your existing eLicense account, follow the prompts to complete the application process, and pay the $300 nonrefundable application fee.

Step 3: Take Pre-License Education

Principal broker applicants must complete a 40-hour Brokerage Administration and Sales Supervision (BASS) course before becoming licensed.

Our online BASS courses are online, state-approved, and explain topics included in the exam.

Step 4: Pass the Principal Broker License Exam

The principal broker licensing exam is administered by PSI. Like the broker exam, it’s split into sections. The national portion includes 75 questions, and the state portion includes 50.

PSI offers a detailed and lengthy exam bulletin that reviews all the topics covered on the exam.

But if you want a simpler study method, check out our exam prep study tool. It reviews topics you need to know to pass the BASS exam. It also includes a test simulator and practice quizzes.

Step 5: Choose Who to Work Under

Before getting your license, you need to choose to work under an employer with an existing registered business name or your own registered business name.

If choosing an existing business, the principal broker must log in to eLicense and add your license to the business.

For both license types, you will receive your license after:

  • Your background check clears
  • Your pending license is added to an existing business or your registered business name
  • OREA completes a final review of your application