North Columbus News

The Ohio Real Estate Commission and the Kentucky Real Estate Commission have reached an agreement to ease licensing restrictions for real estate professionals operating across state borders. As per the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed by both parties, real estate professionals licensed in one state will be able to practice in the other state without needing additional licenses.

This agreement follows Ohio's Senate Bill 131, passed during the 134th General Assembly, which mandates reciprocal license recognition for out-of-state practitioners. The MOU clarifies the intent behind the legislation and streamlines cooperation between Ohio and Kentucky in terms of licensing real estate agents.

Under the terms of the agreement, real estate licensees, including brokers and salespersons licensed in either Ohio or Kentucky, will be eligible for reciprocal licensure upon meeting the required conditions. Both states have agreed to cooperate on investigative matters concerning licensees who hold credentials in both jurisdictions and to inform each other of any disciplinary actions taken.

Each state retains the authority to refuse license issuance based on their respective laws and may terminate the agreement with a 90-day notice. The performance of the agreement will be assessed annually to ensure compliance and effectiveness.

Ohio's existing licensing standards remain robust. Out-of-state real estate practitioners must pass the state law section of Ohio's licensing exam to practice in the state. Brokers from other states must also demonstrate at least two years of experience, with a minimum of 20 transactions completed as brokers, and must successfully pass the Ohio real estate law portion of the broker exam.

The new MOU between Ohio and Kentucky became effective on April 25, 2025. Details of the agreement can be accessed through the linked document: Ohio-Kentucky MOU.