If you're considering becoming a licensed real estate agent in Nebraska, here's a clear guide with the necessary steps and key points to help you along the way:

1. Meet Basic Eligibility Requirements

• Age: You must be at least 19 years old.
• Legal Residency: You must be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or a legal resident.
• Background Check: You must undergo a criminal background check, including fingerprinting.
• High School Diploma: You must have a high school diploma or equivalent.

2. Complete Required Pre-Licensing Education

• Education Requirement: Complete 66 hours of pre-licensing education from an accredited provider.
• Curriculum Includes:
  • Real Estate Principles and Practices
  • Nebraska Real Estate Laws
  • Real Estate Finance
  • Agency Law
  • Ethics and Professional Conduct
• Online/In-Person Options: Courses can typically be taken online or in person.

3. Submit Your Application

• Application Form: After completing your pre-licensing education, submit a completed application to the Nebraska Real Estate Commission (NREC).
• Fees: Pay the application fee, which is typically around $150 (check for updates on fees).
• Background Check: Submit fingerprinting for a background check (done through the Nebraska State Patrol).
• Proof of Education: Provide proof of completion of the required 66 hours of education.

4. Pass the Nebraska Real Estate Exam

• Exam Structure: The real estate exam consists of a national portion and a state-specific portion.
  • National Portion: Covers general real estate topics such as laws, practices, and principles.
  • State Portion: Focuses on Nebraska-specific laws, regulations, and practices.
• Pass Score: You need to score at least 75% on both portions of the exam.
• Exam Fee: The exam typically costs around $100.
• Scheduling: The exam is administered by Pearson VUE. After your application is approved, you'll receive instructions on how to schedule your exam.

5. Activate Your License

• Submit Proof of Exam Success: After passing the exam, submit proof of your exam results to the NREC.
• Activate Your License: Once you pass, you will need to activate your license by working under a licensed real estate broker. The activation fee is usually around $150.

6. Join a Real Estate Brokerage

• Find a Sponsoring Broker: As a new agent, you are required to work under the supervision of a licensed broker.
• Brokerage Requirements: Ensure the brokerage is licensed by the NREC and that they agree to sponsor you.
• Employment: Your broker will oversee your transactions, offer mentorship, and ensure you comply with legal obligations.

7. Complete Post-Licensing Education (Optional but Recommended)

• Some states require post-licensing education, though Nebraska does not. However, ongoing professional development is encouraged.
• Continuing Education: To maintain your license, you will need to complete 12 hours of continuing education every two years, including mandatory updates on Nebraska laws and regulations.

8. Stay Informed & Renew Your License

• License Renewal: Your real estate license in Nebraska must be renewed every two years.
• Continuing Education: Complete the required continuing education (12 hours every two years) to renew your license.
• Renewal Fees: Renewal fees are typically around $150 (check for updates on fees).