Nebraska Reciprocity Requirements
The Nebraska Real Estate Commission (NREC) does not offer formal licensing reciprocity. However, if you’re an actively licensed real estate agent in another state (and in good standing), you can expedite your licensing process in obtaining a real estate license in Nebraska.
Under the Nebraska Real Estate License Act, you can apply for license recognition if you hold a current real estate license in good standing in another real estate regulatory jurisdiction where you primarily reside. You can apply for license recognition through two paths:
While remaining a non-resident of Nebraska, or
Upon moving to Nebraska directly from the jurisdiction where you hold your real estate license
Tips for Obtaining Nebraska License Recognition Faster
Start your fingerprint background check right away. NREC can’t finish your file until the Nebraska State Patrol report arrives, and processing often takes 4–6 weeks.
Time your request for a Certified License History and order it close to issuance so it’s no more than 30 days old when the NREC issues your license.
Complete the 3-hour Nebraska law/agency course early. Ask the provider to report completion electronically to the NREC.
Upload a current passport-style photo when applying for your Nebraska license.
Watch the one-year clock on your license application. Your application fees are valid for one year from when the NREC receives them.
Not ready to pick a broker yet? Choose inactive issuance for your license. You can activate your license later when you’re ready to choose your sponsoring broker.
If you're obtaining an active license, plan E&O insurance lead time.
Use the application checklist to understand timelines and all the materials you’ll need to gather before submitting your application.
Create an Account with the NREC and Apply for License Recognition Online. First, you’ll need to create an account with the NREC using the application portal. This is where you’ll submit your application for license recognition as a new Nebraska resident or a non-resident. Be sure to review the license recognition checklist to understand the process and materials you’ll need to provide.
Submit to a Fingerprint Background Check. Along with submitting your application, you are required to complete a fingerprint background check through Nebraska State Patrol. The NREC will send you instructions for completing fingerprint cards after you file your application. Once you submit your fingerprint cards, it takes an average of 4 to 6 weeks for criminal background check reports to be received by the NREC.
Complete a 3-Hour Nebraska Law/Agency Course. This Nebraska Law/Agency Course covers Nebraska real estate and agency laws and regulations. Once completed, you'll need to provide proof of completion to the NREC along with your application. The course will be reported by the provider to NREC upon completion.
Submit a Certificate of Licensure History from Your Current State. Next, you’ll need to request a Certificate of Licensure History from your home state’s real estate commission to help the NREC verify that your license is active and in good standing. You’ll need to time your request so that the document is no more than 30 days old at issuance. There may also be a small fee to complete this request in your state.
Provide Proof of Errors & Omissions Insurance. Like many other states, Nebraska requires real estate licensees to carry Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance. Learn more info about obtaining Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance in Nebraska in the NREC E&O Fact Sheet.
Complete and Submit the License Recognition Application. After gathering your materials, you’ll need to complete and submit a Salesperson or Broker application through the NREC portal and pay the required application fee.
Finalize Nebraska License Issuance. During this process, you’ll need to choose an application status — Active or Inactive — by submitting a license issuance form signed by you and your chosen sponsoring broker. If you are applying for a non-resident Nebraska license, you’ll need to also complete an Acknowledgement of Personal Jurisdiction form and submit to the NREC.
