Your path to a Wisconsin license
We're so excited you're thinking about a career in real estate with Real. Getting licensed is a lot like building a house: it goes smoothly when you follow the steps in order. Here's the whole journey at a glance.
What it costs to get started
Your one-time startup costs, before association and MLS dues.
Plus REALTOR® association dues and MLS fees, which vary by area (see Step 4). Prefer a printed course book? Tap "Printed book" above to see the difference (about $60 more).
Ongoing costs
What to plan for after you're up and running.
Real annual brokerage fee
Association dues and MLS fees, set by your local board
License renewal, plus 18 hours of CE
No monthly desk fee
At Real, you won't pay a monthly fee just to hang your license. Your split and transaction fees only apply when you close a deal.
Pre-License Course
Register through our discount form and save.
Fill out our Pre-License Course Registration form to sign up for the Salesperson pre-license course through the Wisconsin REALTORS® Association (WRA).
Within 3 business days, we'll email you a secure payment link. Once you pay, WRA will email you your login details so you can start learning at your own pace.
Sign up now →License Exam
The exam is $65 and is given by Pearson VUE.
Before you test, you need one of these:
- Proof you finished the required DSPS-approved pre-license course
- Proof of 10 semester-hour credits in real estate or real estate law from an accredited college (send transcripts to DSPS for approval before you apply)
- Proof you're licensed to practice law in Wisconsin
Where to test
The exam is offered in cities across Wisconsin and nearby states. Test center locations can change, so check the Candidate Handbook for the latest details and study tips.
Register with Pearson VUE →Apply for Your License and Join Real
Step one: complete your Real application at joinreal.com.
Once you've finished your coursework and passed the exam, submit your application to join Real Broker, LLC.
- If it asks for a license number, enter all 0s.
- Use your name exactly as it will appear on your Wisconsin license.
- Our Wisconsin team will then send you the forms and step-by-step instructions for your path.
Find your onboarding path
Steps to get your Wisconsin license.
$75 DSPS application feeSteps to transfer your Wisconsin license to Real.
$75 fee, if anySteps to reinstate your Wisconsin license.
Reinstatement fee variesSteps to add a Wisconsin license after joining Real in another state.
$75 application feeOnboarding made simple
Wisconsin uses LicensE, the state's online system, for all license applications and transfers. Please read every instruction carefully to avoid delays.
Review the Real Wisconsin Onboarding Guide →
Review Real's New Agent Onboarding Resources →
DSPS can't process your license application until you've finished your coursework and passed the exam. To avoid delays, use only the forms and instructions our Wisconsin Broker Team sends you.
Keep More of What You Earn
A simple, competitive plan with no monthly desk fees.
After you cap, you keep 100% commission for the rest of your anniversary year, minus a small post-cap transaction fee.
You're Never Building Alone
Starting out can feel like learning to drive in a new city. You'll want a co-pilot for the first few trips. Here's who's in your corner.
Your Wisconsin Broker Team
Questions on contracts, compliance, or "is this okay?" moments. Reach your broker by email or through ROAR, our internal call routing platform.
Mentorship Program
New agents can find a mentor to help guide them through their first couple of transactions.
Real Academy
Live trainings every day, led by some of our most successful agents. Join live or watch the replay.
Your Sponsoring Agent
The person who brought you to Real is a great first call.
Become a REALTOR®
Your local board is your home base for membership, education and the Code of Ethics. Joining one also makes you a member of the Wisconsin REALTORS® Association and NAR.
We handle the paperwork. Once the state issues your license, our team will send you a new member application by e-signature. When you complete it, it comes straight to us, and we'll submit it for you.
16 REALTOR® associations
Pick Your MLS
Your MLS is where listings live. Pick the one that covers the area where you do most of your business.
10 MLSs serving Wisconsin
Good to know
Most Wisconsin MLSs share listing data through WIREX, so listings from other parts of the state still show up in your MLS. La Crosse Area REALTORS® doesn't run its own MLS. Its members use Metro MLS.
About fees
Association dues and MLS fees change often, so we don't list them here. Visit your board's and MLS's website for current pricing. All agents must stay members in good standing with their association and MLS.
Associations, MLS coverage areas and websites can change. Always check with the association or MLS directly before joining.
Renewal & Continuing Education
Two things to keep on your calendar every two years.
License renewal fee. Next renewal: December 14, 2026. Late renewals add a $25 fee.
Continuing education. Usually $100 to $150 online (in person costs more). Try the WRA or local in-person options.
Your New Agent Toolkit
Once your license is active with Real, watch your inbox for a Welcome to Real Broker email with important steps for your first 30 days.
New Agent Welcome Email
Your checklist for the first 30 days. Bookmark it.
Open →New Agent Startup Session
A live session to set up your accounts and tools.
Open →Real New Agent Toolkit
An easy guide to the tools you'll use most.
Open →Real Broker Wisconsin Website
Staff contacts, training, and compliance info.
Open →
Feeling stuck? We're here to help.
Reach the Wisconsin Broker Team by email or phone. No question is too small.