EstatePass
State Comparison

Alabama vs Illinois

Compare real estate exam requirements, costs, and career potential between Alabama and Illinois

AL Salary
$46K
IL Salary
$59K
AL Pass Rate
56%
IL Pass Rate
55%

AL vs IL At a Glance

CategoryAlabama (AL)Illinois (IL)
Exam Questions120140
Passing Score70%70%
Exam Fee$73$58
Pass Rate56%55%
Avg Salary$46,000$59,000
Renewal Period——
CE Hours——

Detailed Comparison

Exam Format
AL
IL
Salesperson Questions
120
140
Time Limit
210 min
240 min
Passing Score
70%
70%
Costs & Fees
AL
IL
Exam Fee
$73
$58
Career Potential
AL
IL
Average Salary
$46,000
$59,000
Pass Rate
56%
55%
License Renewal
AL
IL
Renewal Period
—
—
CE Hours Required
—
—

Licensing Authorities

AL
Alabama Real Estate Commission
AREC
IL
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
IDFPR

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is easier: Alabama or Illinois real estate exam?

The Alabama exam has 120 questions with a 70% passing score, while Illinois has 140 questions with a 70% passing score. Alabama typically has a higher first-attempt pass rate.

Can I transfer my real estate license from Alabama to Illinois?

License reciprocity varies. Some states offer partial reciprocity where you may only need to take the state-specific portion of the exam. Check with both the AREC and IDFPR for current reciprocity agreements.

Which state pays more for real estate agents: Alabama or Illinois?

Alabama real estate agents earn an average of $46,000 annually, while Illinois agents average $59,000. However, consider cost of living and market conditions in your decision.

How much does it cost to get a real estate license in Alabama vs Illinois?

The exam fee in Alabama is $73, while Illinois charges $58. Total licensing costs including pre-license education, application fees, and background checks typically range from $400-$1,000 in both states.

What are the CE requirements for Alabama vs Illinois?

Renewal cycles and CE hours are set by AREC and IDFPR. Both states require completion of CE before license renewal.

Can I hold a real estate license in both Alabama and Illinois?

Yes, you can hold licenses in multiple states. You would need to meet each state's individual requirements, including education, exams, and fees. Some agents who work in border areas maintain licenses in both states to serve more clients.

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