How to get a real estate license in Columbus, OH
There is no separate Columbus real estate license. Agents in Columbus hold an Ohio salesperson license from the Ohio Division of Real Estate and Professional Licensing and the Ohio Real Estate Commission, the same as everywhere else in the state. Here is what that means locally, with the full steps in the Ohio guide.
The Ohio steps at a glance
- Meet the basics
- Take 100 hours of prelicense courses
- Apply with a broker's recommendation
- Pass each portion of the exam
- Finish 20 hours of post-licensing in 12 months
Full Ohio guide · Renewal and CE rules
Picking a brokerage in Columbus
The Ohio guide explains when you need to work under a broker. Many new agents talk to a few local offices before they decide. These franchise offices list an address in Columbus.
Offices in Columbus
2 real estate franchise offices list an address in Columbus: 1 Century 21 and 1 Coldwell Banker.
- CENTURY 21 Excellence Realty 2472 E. Main Street, 43209 (800) 783-2100 · Office site
- Coldwell Banker Realty 8800 Lyra Dr Ste 600, 43240 (614) 880-0808 · Office site
Source: All The Places (CC-0), from each brand's public office locator, as of October 18, 2026. Not affiliated and not a recommendation; confirm details with the office.
Agents and offices in Columbus
Questions
Do I need a separate license to sell real estate in Columbus?
Not for the real estate license itself: the Ohio Division of Real Estate and Professional Licensing and the Ohio Real Estate Commission issues it and it covers all of Ohio. The city may have its own business license rules, so check with the city.
Where do I take the course if I live in Columbus?
Any school approved by the Ohio Division of Real Estate and Professional Licensing and the Ohio Real Estate Commission works, in a classroom or online where the state allows it. Check the approval before you pay.
Nearby city guides: Cincinnati · Centerville · Fairlawn · Ironton · Marietta · Newark · Oxford · Warren
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Rules change, so always confirm with the official source.
Licensed already?
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