How to Get Your Real Estate License in Ontario
Getting your real estate license in Ontario requires completing an education program through an approved provider (Humber College, Algonquin College, or Niagara College), passing all exams, and registering with the Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO). Here's the complete process for 2026.
Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Enroll in a Pre-Registration Program
You must complete the pre-registration education program through one of Ontario's approved providers. The most popular is Humber College, which offers the entire program online (see our Humber vs Algonquin comparison). The program consists of:
- Course 1: Real Estate Essentials — foundations, TRESA, RECO, property law
- Course 2: Residential Real Estate Transactions — agency, APS, valuation
- Course 3: Additional Residential Real Estate Transactions — condos, rural, new builds
- Course 4: Commercial Real Estate Transactions — commercial properties, leasing, investment
Step 2: Pass All Four Course Exams
Each course has a final exam with a minimum passing grade of 75%. Exams are multiple choice, open book, and proctored online through Meazure Learning. You can study at your own pace and take exams when ready.
Step 3: Complete Two Simulation Exams
After passing all four courses, you must complete:
- Simulation 1: Tests practical application of residential transaction knowledge
- Simulation 2: Tests more complex scenarios including commercial transactions
Step 4: Register with RECO
Once you've passed everything, apply to RECO for registration as a salesperson:
- Submit your completed education transcripts
- Pass a criminal background check
- Obtain errors and omissions insurance
- Find a registered brokerage to sponsor you
- Pay registration fees
Step 5: Begin Your Articling Phase
After registration, you enter a 24-month articling phase where you work under a broker of record. During this period, you must complete additional elective courses covering specialized topics.
Complete Cost Breakdown (2026)
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Humber Course 1 | $575 |
| Humber Course 2 | $575 |
| Humber Course 3 | $575 |
| Humber Course 4 | $575 |
| Simulation 1 | $575 |
| Simulation 2 | $575 |
| RECO Registration | $590 |
| Insurance (E&O) | $480/year |
| Real Estate Board Entrance | $460 |
| Board Membership (Annual) | $680 |
| OREA & CREA Entrance | $400 |
| OREA & CREA Membership (Annual) | $1,080 |
| Total (First Year) | ~$7,140 |
Timeline
Most students complete the program in 6-12 months depending on pace:
- Fast track (4-6 months): Taking 1 course per month, studying full-time
- Standard (6-9 months): Taking courses every 6-8 weeks while working
- Part-time (9-12 months): Studying evenings and weekends at a comfortable pace
Requirements
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
- No university degree required — the Humber program is open to all
- Must pass a criminal background check
- Must be sponsored by a registered brokerage (after completing education)
TRESA: The New Regulatory Framework
As of 2023, Ontario real estate is governed by the Trust in Real Estate Services Act (TRESA), which replaced the old Real Estate and Business Brokers Act (REBBA). All 2026 course content reflects TRESA requirements. Key changes include updated disclosure obligations, new personal real estate corporation rules, and enhanced consumer protection measures.
Start With Course 1
The first step to your real estate license is passing Course 1. Our study guide makes it easy — 1,500 textbook pages condensed into what you actually need.
Get the Course 1 Guide — $19.99Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to get a real estate license in Ontario?
The total first-year cost to get your real estate license in Ontario is approximately $7,140. This includes Humber College course fees ($2,300 for 4 courses), simulation exam fees ($1,150), RECO registration ($590), insurance ($480), real estate board fees ($1,140), and OREA/CREA fees ($1,480).
How long does it take to get a real estate license in Ontario?
Most students complete the Humber College pre-registration program in 6-12 months. After passing all exams and simulations, RECO registration takes an additional 2-4 weeks. The total timeline from enrollment to active license is typically 8-14 months.
Do you need a degree to get a real estate license in Ontario?
No, you do not need a university or college degree to get a real estate license in Ontario. You must be at least 18 years old and a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. The main requirement is completing the approved pre-registration education program through Humber College or another approved provider.
Can I get my real estate license online in Ontario?
Yes, the entire pre-registration education program can be completed online. Humber College offers all four courses and both simulation exams through their online learning platform. Exams are proctored online through Meazure Learning, so you never need to attend in person.
What is the passing grade for Ontario real estate exams?
The passing grade for all Humber College real estate pre-registration exams is 75%. You must achieve at least 75% on each of the four course exams and both simulation exams to qualify for RECO registration.