Background Check and Fingerprinting

While completing your license application in eLicense, you will answer questions that start the background check process.

You must answer all questions honestly. When in doubt, provide more information rather than less.

On average, the entire background check process, including fingerprinting, takes about 2 weeks, although it can take longer depending on your record.

If you take the license exam in person, your fingerprints will be taken at the PSI exam center after you pass. If you take the exam through PSI's remote online proctoring, you may have your fingerprints taken before or after you pass.

Fingerprints are processed through the Oregon State Police (OSP) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). You will pay a fee directly to PSI for fingerprint submission and processing. Please contact PSI for current fees.

Fingerprints must be submitted digitally through PSI.

Failing to disclose information on your license application may result in denial.

Having a criminal or otherwise adverse history does not automatically prevent you from getting a license. In these cases, the Oregon Real Estate Agency will review your application individually, which may delay the process. The Agency will contact you if additional information is needed.

• Read all questions carefully. You are responsible for providing complete and accurate information.
• Submit all required documents. Many applications are delayed because applicants did not provide required attachments, did not thoroughly answer all questions, or did not make full disclosure. Documents you submit become part of your background check and will not be returned. Photocopies are acceptable but must be legible.
• Disclose all felony and misdemeanor convictions and all arrests that have not been adjudicated. This includes major traffic violations such as DUI, reckless driving, fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer, and driving while suspended. "Convictions" include a guilty or no-contest plea, a verdict of guilty by a judge or jury, or a forfeiture of bail. Disclose all convictions and arrests regardless of whether they were later dismissed, whether you completed a diversion program, or whether they occurred when you were a minor. Do not assume a criminal record does not exist. The OSP and FBI retain criminal information for 30 years or more.
• Disclose any administrative proceedings in which you are involved, including investigations, sanctions, hearings, or other disciplinary actions by any administrative agency. The Agency runs applicants’ names through a nationwide database containing regulatory disciplinary actions.
• Disclose specific civil and financial matters, including any adverse judgments related real property, all unsatisfied judgments, or bankruptcies.

Each application requiring further review is evaluated individually. The purpose of the background check is to assess your current fitness to hold a license.

If the Agency requests additional information about your employment or references, please respond promptly. Positive information about your employment or business activity since the issues in question can be important to the Agency's determination.

The Agency cannot tell you in advance whether specific items from your past would prevent you from obtaining a license. You must complete the full background check process, including the application and fingerprints, for the Agency to make a determination.

For questions about the background check process, call the Licensing Division at (503) 378-4170.