Best Online Real Estate Schools in Minnesota (2026)
Compare 6 Minnesota Department of Commerce-approved schools. Find the best price with exclusive CertLaunch discounts and get your real estate license faster.
Course Cost
$239 – $1,025
Time to License
4 – 12 weeks
Avg Salary
$58,000 – $85,000/yr
Required Hours
90 hours
Top 3 Minnesota Real Estate Schools at a Glance
1. RealEstateU
Best value for Minnesota's 90-hour pre-license course. Audio-based, self-paced with flexible access.
$239
with code CERTLAUNCH
2. The CE Shop
Best for interactive learning. LEAP platform with Minnesota-specific content and exam prep tools.
$689
3. Colibri Real Estate
Best for comprehensive packages. Multiple tiers with instructor support and exam prep included.
$679
Best Real Estate Schools in Minnesota
All 6 schools are Minnesota MN Commerce-approved. Price: Low to High.
Quick Price Comparison (Course Only)
RealEstateU
Best ValueStarting at
$299
$239
- Audio-based learning
- Mobile-friendly
- Downloadable study materials
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Available Packages (3)
Course + e-Textbook
- 90-Hour MN Pre-License Course
- e-Textbook
- Audio Lessons
- Self-Paced Online Access
AYPO Real Estate
Starting at
$459
- Affordable pricing
- Online proctoring included (Deluxe)
- Downloadable PDF course materials
- Practice exams with test simulators
Available Packages (2)
Basic Package
- 3 x 30-Hour MN Pre-License Courses (90 hrs total)
- Course I, II, and III
- Chapter quizzes and final exams
- Certificate of completion
Colibri Real Estate
Starting at
$679
- AI Tutor (Rubi)
- Live instructor support
- Narrated audio option
- Pass or Don't Pay guarantee available
Available Packages (4)
The Basics
- 90-Hour MN Pre-License Course
- Live Instructor Support
- Study Guides & e-Books
- AI Tutor (Rubi)
The CE Shop
Starting at
$689
- LEAP 2.0 interactive platform
- Scenario-based learning
- 5-day free trial
- High exam pass rates
Available Packages (4)
Courses Only
- 90 Hours of MN Pre-Licensing
- Business eBooks
- Digital Flashcards
- Study Schedule
- Career Resources
Kaplan Real Estate Education
Starting at
$729
- Live Online Learning Hub access
- National & state exam prep QBanks
- Expert licensed instructors
- Flexible online + live options
Available Packages (2)
Minnesota Salesperson Licensing with Exam Prep Package (90 Credit Hours)
- 90-Hour MN Pre-License Courses (3 courses)
- MN Real Estate Exam Prep Online Video Courses
- Drill and Practice QBanks (National & State)
- Digital Flashcards
The Realty School
Local FavoriteStarting at
$837
- Local Minnesota school (Roseville)
- In-person + online video options
- All materials included
- 90-day money-back guarantee
Available Packages (1)
90-Hour Pre-License Package (3 Courses)
- Course 1 – Real Estate Fundamentals (30 hrs)
- Course 2 – Real Estate Practices (30 hrs)
- Course 3 – Real Estate Law (30 hrs)
- All course materials, binders & pens included
- Online video (on-demand) or in-person options
Prices verified March 2026. Prices may change. Always confirm current pricing on the school's website before enrolling.
How Much Do Real Estate Agents Make in Minnesota?
Average Annual Income
$58,000 – $85,000
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) May 2024
Top Earners
$100,000 – $150,000+
Experienced agents in top markets
Commission Structure
Minnesota real estate agents typically earn 2.5%-3% commission per transaction. On a $350,000 home (Minnesota median), that's approximately $8,750–$10,500 per sale. New agents on a 70/30 split with their brokerage would keep $6,125–$7,350. Closing 6-8 deals your first year is a common benchmark, putting first-year earnings at $36,750–$58,800.
Top-Earning Minnesota Markets
Is a Minnesota Real Estate License Worth It?
👍 Pros
- + Strong Market: The Twin Cities metro area is one of the most active real estate markets in the Midwest with consistent demand.
- + Higher Earnings: Minnesota agents earn above the national average, with top earners exceeding $150,000.
- + Growing Population: Minneapolis–Saint Paul continues to attract new residents, driving housing demand.
- + No Degree Required: Start a high-earning career with just a 90-hour course and no college degree.
👎 Cons
- - Commission-Only Income: No salary — you don't get paid until you close a deal.
- - 90 Hours Required: Minnesota requires more pre-license education than many states, meaning a longer time to start.
- - Seasonal Market: Minnesota's harsh winters can slow real estate activity from November through March.
How to Get a Real Estate License in Minnesota
Complete 90 Hours of Pre-License Education
Enroll in a Minnesota Department of Commerce-approved 90-hour pre-license program. The curriculum covers Real Estate Fundamentals, Real Estate Practices, and Minnesota Real Estate Law (30 hours each).
Pass the Course Final Exam
Each school requires you to pass a final exam at the end of the course. This is separate from the state exam and typically easier.
Submit Fingerprints & Background Check
Complete fingerprinting through an approved provider (~$40). The Minnesota Department of Commerce will conduct a background check as part of your application.
Pass the Minnesota State Exam
Register with PSI Services to take the Minnesota real estate exam. The exam has 140 questions (national + state portions) and requires a 75% score to pass. Cost: $65.
Apply for Your License
Submit your license application to the Minnesota Department of Commerce. Application fee: $100. Once approved, you can activate your license under a sponsoring broker.
Find a Sponsoring Broker & Start Your Career
Minnesota requires you to work under a licensed broker. Research brokerages in your area — Twin Cities, Rochester, and Duluth are top markets.
Minnesota Real Estate License Requirements
Eligibility Requirements
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Must have a valid Social Security Number
- No college degree required
- Must pass background check
Education & Exam Requirements
- 90 hours of approved pre-license education
- 3 courses: Fundamentals, Practices, MN Law (30 hrs each)
- Pass Minnesota state exam (PSI Services)
- 140 questions: 75% required to pass each section
Minnesota Real Estate License Cost
Here's the complete breakdown of what it costs to get your Minnesota real estate license in 2026:
| Pre-License Course (90 hours) | $239 - $1,025 | Use CertLaunch discount |
| State Exam Fee | $65 - $65 | PSI Services |
| License Application | $100 - $100 | MN Department of Commerce |
| Fingerprinting | $35 - $45 | Approved provider |
| Estimated Total | $439 – $1,235+ | Save up to 20% with CertLaunch |
The Minnesota Real Estate Exam
Exam Details
- Format: Multiple-choice questions (national + state)
- Questions: 140 total (national + state portions)
- Passing score: 75% on each section
- Provider: PSI Services
- Cost: $65
- Pass rate: ~55–65% first attempt
Exam Topics
- Real estate principles & practices
- Minnesota real estate law
- Contracts and agency relationships
- Property ownership and land use
- Real estate math and calculations
- Financing and mortgage basics
💡 Exam Prep Tip
The Minnesota real estate exam covers both national and state-specific content. Minnesota real estate law is often the most challenging section for students. Schools that include exam prep packages (practice tests, flashcards, simulated exams) significantly improve your chances of passing on the first try. Consider packages from The CE Shop or Colibri that include exam prep tools.
How Long Does It Take?
4–6 weeks
Full-time
Studying 4-6 hours/day
2–3 months
Part-time
Studying 1-2 hours/day
4–6 months
Casual pace
A few hours per week
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Compare Real Estate Licensing in Other States
Explore how Minnesota's real estate licensing requirements and earning potential compare to other states across the country.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to get a real estate license in Minnesota?
Total costs range from $444 to $1,230+. This includes the 90-hour pre-license course ($239–$1,025), state exam fee ($65), license application ($100), and fingerprinting (~$40). Using a CertLaunch discount code can save you up to 20% on the course.
How long does it take to get a real estate license in Minnesota?
Most students complete the process in 4–12 weeks. The 90-hour pre-license program can be finished in as little as 4–6 weeks studying full-time, or up to 4 months part-time. After passing the course, you can schedule your state exam within 1–2 weeks.
What are the requirements to get a real estate license in Minnesota?
You must be at least 18 years old, complete 90 hours of approved pre-license education, pass the Minnesota state exam with a score of 75% or higher, submit fingerprints, pass a background check, and apply through the Minnesota Department of Commerce.
Is the Minnesota real estate exam hard?
The Minnesota real estate exam has a pass rate of approximately 55–65% on the first attempt. It consists of 140 questions (national and state portions), and you need 75% to pass each section. Proper preparation with a quality pre-license course and exam prep significantly improves your chances.
Can I take the Minnesota real estate course online?
Yes. All schools listed on CertLaunch offer online, state-approved 90-hour pre-license courses. Online courses are self-paced, meaning you can study on your own schedule from anywhere in Minnesota.
How much do real estate agents make in Minnesota?
Minnesota real estate agents earn an average of $58,000–$85,000 per year. Top agents in the Twin Cities metro can earn $100,000–$150,000+. Income depends on commission structure, brokerage, and market activity.
Do I need a college degree to become a real estate agent in Minnesota?
No. Minnesota does not require a college degree to obtain a real estate license. You only need to complete the 90-hour pre-license program, pass the state exam, and meet the basic application requirements.
What is the best real estate school in Minnesota?
The best school depends on your budget and learning style. RealEstateU offers the best value starting at $239 with a CertLaunch discount code. The CE Shop is top-rated for interactive content. The Realty School is the top local Minnesota option with in-person classes in Roseville. Compare all options above to find your best fit.
How do I choose between online and in-person real estate classes in Minnesota?
Online courses offer flexibility and are typically cheaper. In-person classes provide structured schedules and direct instructor interaction. If you are self-motivated and prefer studying at your own pace, online is ideal. If you prefer a classroom setting, consider The Realty School in Roseville.
Can I get my Minnesota real estate license if I have a criminal record?
It depends on the offense. The Minnesota Department of Commerce reviews each application individually. Certain felonies and misdemeanors may disqualify you, but many offenses do not automatically prevent licensure. You can contact the Department of Commerce before enrolling to discuss your situation.