Pre-Licensing vs. Post-Licensing: What’s the Difference?
If you’re on your journey to becoming a real estate agent in Indiana, you’ve likely come across the terms “pre-licensing” and “post-licensing.” At first glance, they might sound similar—but each plays a distinct role in your real estate career. Understanding the difference is essential not just for passing your licensing exam, but for building a strong professional foundation in the real estate industry.
In this post, we’ll break down the key differences between pre-licensing and post-licensing education, what each entails, and how REAL University supports you every step of the way. We’ll also link to helpful resources like our Step-by-Step Guide on How to Get Your Real Estate License in Indiana and What to Expect in a Pre-Licensing Course at REAL University to deepen your understanding.
🔹 What Is Pre-Licensing?
Pre-licensing refers to the required coursework that must be completed before you’re eligible to take the Indiana real estate licensing exam. It’s the first official step toward becoming a licensed real estate agent.
Key Features of Pre-Licensing:
Required Hours: In Indiana, you must complete 90 hours of approved pre-licensing education from a state-certified provider like REAL University.
Course Content: Topics include real estate law, financing, contracts, property management, ethics, and Indiana-specific regulations.
Course Format: At REAL University, students can choose from flexible online or in-person options. Learn more about the experience in What to Expect in a Pre-Licensing Course at REAL University.
Exam Preparation: The course is designed to prepare you for the Indiana licensing exam, which tests both national and state-specific real estate knowledge.
Why It Matters:
This is your introduction to the industry. Think of it as real estate school 101—where you learn the rules of the game, the terms, and the legal responsibilities of your future career.
🔹 What Is Post-Licensing?
Once you’ve passed your exam and received your license, you’re officially a real estate agent—but your education isn’t quite over.
Post-licensing is a requirement in Indiana that ensures new agents continue learning and growing during their first year of practice. It bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world experience.
Key Features of Post-Licensing
Required Hours: Indiana requires new licensees to complete 30 hours of post-licensing education within one year of receiving their license.
Course Content: Post-licensing focuses on practical application—topics like prospecting, negotiations, agency relationships, contracts, closing transactions, and working with clients.
Delivery Format: Courses can be completed online through REAL University's Indiana Post-Licensing Broker Course.
CE Credit: Post-licensing is separate from Continuing Education (CE) requirements and only applies during your first year as a licensee.
Why It Matters:
Pre-licensing teaches you the laws; post-licensing teaches you how to work with clients, close deals, and actually run your real estate business. It’s like on-the-job training with structure.
📊 Pre-Licensing vs. Post-Licensing at a Glance
During the period of your 90-hour course, you’ll take a three course exams to show you’ve understood the material. You will be required to pass all three exams to receive your 90 Indiana Broker Pre-Licensing Certificate, which is required to sit for the state licensing exam.
🗺️ How These Two Steps Fit into Your Licensing Journey
Still mapping out your career path? Start with our full Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your Real Estate License in Indiana, which explains everything from eligibility to enrolling in your first course and passing the state exam.
Here’s a quick roadmap:
Enroll in Pre-Licensing at REAL University (learn what the course is like here)
Pass the Indiana Real Estate Licensing Exam
Apply for your license through the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency
Complete 30 hours of Post-Licensing within 12 months
Maintain your license with ongoing Continuing Education (CE)
❗ Common Misconceptions
“I Already Took 90 Hours of Pre-Licensing—Why Do I Need More Education?”
It’s a fair question, and the answer is simple: Real estate is a career that evolves with the market, legal updates, and consumer expectations. The 90-hour pre-licensing course equips you to pass your exam, while post-licensing equips you to thrive as an agent. Think of it as leveling up.
“Can I Skip Post-Licensing If I Start Working Right Away?”
No—working full-time doesn’t exempt you from the post-licensing requirement. If you don’t complete your 30 hours within one year, your license could be placed on inactive status or even revoked.
💬 How REAL University Supports Your Whole Journey
At REAL University, we don’t just help you pass your exam—we prepare you to succeed long after you’ve earned your license.
Pre-Licensing Courses with real-world scenarios, industry-proven instructors, and flexible scheduling.
Post-Licensing Programs that keep you compliant while helping you build real client relationships.
Student Support that continues after the course ends. Our faculty and advisors are just an email or call away.
Still deciding where to begin? Dive into our guide on what to expect in our pre-licensing courses to see how REAL University is different.
🚀 Final Thoughts
Understanding the difference between pre-licensing and post-licensing is more than a technical requirement—it’s a mindset. One course helps you start; the other helps you succeed. By approaching your real estate education in phases, you’ll build a career that’s not just legally compliant but also professionally rewarding.
If you’re ready to get started, check out our blog on how to get your license in Indiana, and take your first step toward a fulfilling career in real estate with REAL University.
