Key Takeaways
- The Idaho Real Estate Commission (IREC) operates under the Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses (DOPL)
- IREC consists of five members appointed by the Governor: four licensed brokers and one public member
- IREC has authority to investigate complaints, conduct audits, and take disciplinary action including license suspension or revocation
- Idaho requires 90 hours of pre-license education split into two 45-hour modules
- New two-year license renewal cycle effective July 1, 2025
Idaho Real Estate Commission (IREC)
The Idaho Real Estate Commission (IREC) is the state agency responsible for licensing, regulating, and overseeing real estate professionals in Idaho under the Idaho Real Estate License Law (Title 54, Chapter 20, Idaho Code).
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IREC Structure and Authority
Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses (DOPL)
IREC operates under DOPL (Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses), which provides administrative support and oversight for professional licensing boards in Idaho.
Commission Members
IREC consists of five members appointed by the Governor:
| Member Type | Number | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Licensed brokers | 4 | Active Idaho broker license |
| Public member | 1 | Not licensed in real estate |
Members serve four-year staggered terms with terms expiring on different years.
Key IREC Functions
| Function | Description |
|---|---|
| Licensing | Process applications, approve education providers, issue licenses |
| Education | Set education requirements, approve courses and schools |
| Enforcement | Investigate complaints, conduct audits of trust accounts |
| Discipline | Suspend, revoke, or deny licenses; impose civil penalties |
| Rulemaking | Adopt administrative rules implementing the license law |
Idaho Real Estate License Law
The Idaho Real Estate License Law (Title 54, Chapter 20, Idaho Code) is the primary statute governing real estate licensing. Key provisions include:
- Who must be licensed - Definitions of broker and salesperson activities
- Exemptions - Attorneys, property owners, certain employees
- Prohibited conduct - Actions that violate the law
- Disciplinary actions - Grounds for suspension or revocation
- Trust fund handling - Requirements for client funds
IDAPA Rules
IREC adopts administrative rules (IDAPA 24.39.01) that implement the License Law. These rules cover:
- License application procedures
- Education requirements and course approval
- Advertising standards
- Trust account requirements
- Agency disclosure procedures
Exam Tip: IREC can impose civil penalties up to $10,000 per violation and revoke licenses for serious misconduct.
Real Estate Recovery Fund
Idaho does not maintain a real estate recovery fund. Unlike many states, there is no state-administered fund to compensate consumers harmed by licensee misconduct.
Consumer Protection Alternatives
| Protection | Description |
|---|---|
| E&O Insurance | MANDATORY for all licensees before license activation |
| Civil lawsuits | Consumers can sue licensees directly |
| License discipline | IREC can suspend/revoke for misconduct |
| Criminal prosecution | For fraud or theft |
Key Difference: Many states have recovery funds, but Idaho relies on mandatory E&O insurance instead. This is a frequently tested topic on the Idaho exam.
IREC Contact Information
| Resource | Information |
|---|---|
| Website | dopl.idaho.gov/irec |
| Main Office | Boise, Idaho |
| Phone | (208) 334-3285 |
| Online System | Idaho DOPL online licensing portal |
Recent Changes - July 1, 2025
Effective July 1, 2025, Idaho implemented a new two-year license renewal cycle:
| Change | Details |
|---|---|
| Previous system | Annual renewal |
| New system | Two-year renewal cycle |
| License term | 2 years |
| CE requirement | Adjusted for 2-year cycle |
Important: This transition affects when licensees complete continuing education and renew their licenses. Current licensees should verify their new renewal date with IREC.
How many members serve on the Idaho Real Estate Commission?
Which agency does the Idaho Real Estate Commission operate under?
Does Idaho have a Real Estate Recovery Fund?