Can You Get an Iowa Real Estate License with Violations such as Felony, DUI or Misdemeanor?
It is definitely possible to get a real estate license in Iowa should you have past convictions on your criminal record.
However, there’s no cut-and-dry guarantee you’ll get approved for a license, no matter the crime.
In this article, we discuss the background check procedure in the state, as well as what you can do should your license application be denied.
Keep reading to fully understand how the Iowa Real Estate Commission looks at criminal records and evaluates past crimes, and how this impacts your chances of obtaining a real estate license.
Should I Pass a Background Check for an Iowa Real Estate License?
It’s a required part of the licensing process in Iowa to submit fingerprints for a criminal record check.
You should do this early on in the process of obtaining a license since it can take anywhere from 4-8 weeks for your criminal record check to be ready.
The report is only good for 210 days though, so it’s also necessary to keep that in mind within your overall timeline.
You must use DataPro to schedule your fingerprints. Once you create an online account, the system will prompt you on what steps to take to get this appointment made.
The cost for the criminal record check in its entirety is $51.
Can You Get a Real Estate License with a Felony in Iowa?
It is possible to get an Iowa real estate license should you have a felony on your criminal record, however, it may delay your ability to apply.
Iowa code states you must wait five years after fulfillment of any sentence related to felonies such as:
- Forgery
- Embezzlement
- Obtaining money under false pretenses
- Theft
- Arson
- Extortion
- Conspiracy to defraud
- Crimes related to a breach of fiduciary duty
You must wait for a one-year period after the fulfillment of any sentence related to a felony involving moral turpitude.
After waiting the established time period, you may apply for your license, but the Commission still reserves the right to deny your application based on the details of your conviction.
Can You Get a Real Estate License with a Misdemeanor in Iowa?
You may also still be eligible to receive a real estate license should you have a misdemeanor on your criminal record.
When reviewing your application, factors the Commission takes into consideration include:
- Nature of offense
- Any aggravating or extenuating circumstances (must be documented)
- Time lapsed since conviction
- Rehabilitation, treatment, and/or restitution
- Any additional relevant factors
The Commission may also request character references from other licensed real estate brokers or salespersons.
Convictions that include a serious or aggravated misdemeanor may delay your ability to apply for a license, having to wait five years from when you completed your sentencing.
Can You Get a Real Estate License with a DUI in Iowa?
Since a DUI in Iowa can be considered a misdemeanor or a felony, there is a chance a DUI will prevent you from getting a real estate license.
Classified as operating while intoxicated (OWI), this conviction is closely reviewed based on the severity of the offense.
Even though you can get a real estate license if you have a DUI, you may have to wait five years after fulfilling conviction requirements to even begin the process.
And, there’s still a chance the Commission could deny your license based on the details of your conviction.
Tips for Applying for an Iowa Real Estate License with Criminal Record or Misdemeanor
One of the most important things to take into account when applying for a real estate license in Iowa is the need to be honest on your application.
Everything will come out in your criminal records check, but making a false statement on your application for a real estate license may lead to a denial of the license.
The next best way to handle a past conviction is to be responsive and helpful should the Commission have additional questions or requests.
Make sure you’ve secured a few people you can call on as character references as well should the Commission ask for this additional requirement.
It’s also a good idea to be aware of what crimes may require you to delay your license application, so you don’t apply too early.
Can I Appeal the Commission’s Negative Decision?
If your criminal background does lead to a denial of a real estate license, you are able to request a hearing for further review.
You must submit a written request within 30 days of the Commission’s decision to be eligible for the proceedings to occur.
Can a Real Estate License Be Suspended or Revoked Because of a Violation Committed After Receiving It?
Any written complaint against both licensed Iowa real estate agents and those unlicensed who are practicing real estate will be reviewed under the right circumstances.
The complaint must contain probable cause that a license law or rule may have been violated, and the transaction in question must have happened in Iowa.
Once the Commission completes their review, they can take appropriate action if it’s proven a license law or rule has been violated.
Consequences may include license disqualification or revocation. The severity of the results are based on the acts or offenses the licensee is guilty of.
Where to Study for a Real Estate License Exam?
Aside from getting your application approved as someone with a criminal background, the next most important prerequisite to obtaining an Iowa real estate license is passing the exam.
Examinees are required to complete a 60-hour pre-licensing course taken at one of the accredited real estate agent schools in Iowa, prior to taking the exam.
You have the option to complete your coursework via remote learning or through attending in-person classes.
Choosing the best method to learn is crucial to your study strategy, so it is best to weigh the pros and cons of real estate classes online vs classroom courses to know which format suits your learning style.
While you’ll learn a lot in your pre-licensing course, studying is essential.
The more time you can set aside for study and review, the better your chances of passing the Iowa real estate exam on your first attempt, saving you time and money.
To stay on top of studying for the real estate exam and using your time efficiently, make sure you’re organized.
Begin by taking detailed notes during class and then transforming that information into study materials.
You can create topic outlines for quick review, as well as flashcards for help memorizing facts.
It’s also a good tip to review the exam outline you’ll find in the Licensing Information Bulletin from PSI.
Once your materials are good to go, you need to find a good place to study. This is usually somewhere quiet, where distractions and interruptions are minimal.
Set aside a little time each day for review so to not overwhelm yourself as your test date approaches.
If you need some extra support, setting up a study group can help keep you on track as well.
Get a good night’s sleep before exam day, and don’t forget to eat breakfast before you head to the testing center. All this, and plenty of studying, can really make a big difference in acing that test.
Additional Information
Before filing your license application, you must pick a broker to work for.
Being under the supervision of a licensed brokerage is required to be able to receive an active license when your application gets approved. The Commission does not issue salesperson licenses on inactive status.
Review our vetted list of the best real estate brokerages in Iowa and for sure you will find one that meets your career goals.
It’s also best to know how much a real estate license in Iowa costs to budget for licensing expenses ahead of time.
Our guide on how long to get an Iowa real estate license provides an estimated timeline to complete the process.
As you gear up to become a licensed salesperson in the state of Iowa, equip yourself with the following helpful information to ensure a successful real estate practice:
- Learn from experienced agents on what it’s like being a real estate agent as a career.
- Know the next steps after passing the real estate exam.
- Get a good start to your real estate career by joining a real estate team.
To help you build and grow your real estate career quickly, we at Real Estate Bees created a directory for real estate professionals.
It’s designed to help you get more exposure for your business, including receiving leads. Create a free profile by signing up here.
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About the Author
Kristina Morales is a REALTOR® with over 20 years of professional experience. She actively practices real estate in Ohio but also has practiced real estate in California and Texas. Conducting her real estate business in three states has allowed her to gain unique experiences that make her a well-rounded realtor. She obtained her Bachelor of Arts in Business Management and her MBA with a concentration in Banking and Finance. Prior to real estate, Kristina had an extensive corporate career in banking and treasury. She ended her finance career as an Assistant Treasurer at a publicly traded oil & gas company in Houston, TX.