Real Estate License in Indiana With Multiple DUIs

[Julie ODonnell]

Hello,

I am an alcoholic, sober now for over five years, but have a history of five DUIs in another state, none in Indiana.  They are all misdemeanors because they were spaced apart so I have no felony convictions, and thankfully no incidents that resulted in any injury to anyone.  I am very ashamed of my past behavior and have worked hard to put all of that behind me.  I have no other criminal history.  It has always been a dream of mine to work in real estate and now that my kids have graduated college, I am hoping to pursue this goal but feel like with my DUI history, I will never be able to qualify for a license anywhere, under any circumstances.  I am hoping to get some feedback here without judgment as no one can make me feel any worse about my past mistakes than I already do.  Thanks.

[Account Closed]

Julie, welcome to BiggerPockets.  

My cursory review of Indiana's licensing process shows that it is similar to most (all?) states.  You will submit fingerprints for a criminal background check after you apply for your license.  Upon receiving your background information the board will either approve your application or request you appear in person to provide clarifying and mitigating information.  

I don't know, but I hope that Indiana will take a "whole person" view of your life and weigh your past five years of sobriety in your favor.  But if not there are other ways to be involved in real estate to include being an investor.  Spending time on this website will show you the almost unlimited ways you can succeed in real estate (as well as the many ways to fail).

Good luck.