Illinois vs New York
Compare real estate exam requirements, costs, and career potential between Illinois and New York
IL vs NY At a Glance
| Category | Illinois (IL) | New York (NY) |
|---|---|---|
| Exam Questions | 140 | β |
| Passing Score | 70% | β |
| Exam Fee | $58 | β |
| Pass Rate | 55% | 63% |
| Avg Salary | $59,000 | $72,000 |
| Renewal Period | β | Every 2 years |
| CE Hours | β | 22.5 hours |
Detailed Comparison
Licensing Authorities
Frequently Asked Questions
Exam formats are set by IDFPR and DOS; see each candidate handbook for the current number of questions and passing score. New York typically has a higher first-attempt pass rate.
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 IDFPR and DOS for current reciprocity agreements.
Illinois real estate agents earn an average of $59,000 annually, while New York agents average $72,000. However, consider cost of living and market conditions in your decision.
Exam fees are set by IDFPR and DOS. Total licensing costs including pre-license education, application fees, and background checks typically range from $400-$1,000 in both states.
Renewal cycles and CE hours are set by IDFPR and DOS. Both states require completion of CE before license renewal.
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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