Real Estate Agent Permit Requirements in Bismarck, ND

Complete permit and license guide for starting a real estate agent in Bismarck, Burleigh County, North Dakota.

Updated 2026-03-15 5 stops $300–$1,000 est. 4–10 weeks
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Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. This guide was compiled from public and official sources (last updated ) and has not yet been independently source-verified — confirm each requirement before acting on it.

Federal — start here

1 stop

  1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

    Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC or corporation. Free from the IRS.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

State of North Dakota

2 stops

  1. North Dakota Office of State Tax Commissioner — Sales Tax Permit

    Required for all businesses selling taxable goods or services in North Dakota. North Dakota charges a 5% state sales tax; local jurisdictions may add up to 3.5%. Register with the ND Office of State Tax Commissioner.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online via Taxpayer Access Point)

  2. Errors and Omissions (E&O) Insurance

    Real estate agents and brokers are strongly advised to carry Errors and Omissions insurance. Many brokerages require agents to maintain E&O coverage as a condition of affiliation.

    $500–$2,000/yearImmediate to 1 week

City of Bismarck / Burleigh County

2 stops

  1. North Dakota Real Estate Commission — Salesperson or Broker License

    Real estate agents in North Dakota must be licensed by the ND Real Estate Commission. Requires 90 hours of pre-licensing education and passing the state exam.

    Official government source

    $75–$150 (salesperson)4–8 weeks

  2. City of Bismarck City Clerk — Business License

    Bismarck requires a Business License for certain regulated businesses within city limits. The City Clerk's office issues licenses for applicable business categories. This license must be renewed annually and displayed at your place of business.

    Official government source

    $50–$500/year depending on business type and gross revenues1–3 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $300–$1,000 · 4–10 weeks

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Official Sources

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