Idaho Business Broker & M&A Advisor License Requirements
Becoming a licensed business broker or M&A advisor in Idaho requires meeting specific education, exam, and experience standards. This guide covers every requirement, fee, and regulatory pathway for Idaho as of 2025–2026.
License Type Required in Idaho Real estate broker license required. Idaho business brokers operate under the Real Estate Broker License, regulated by the Idaho Real Estate Commission (IREC).
Education Requirements
Pre-license (salesperson): 90 hours of approved coursework
Experience Required 2 years as licensed salesperson/broker.
Exam & Licensing Fees
Exam: PSI national + Idaho state exam
Application fee: $160
License fee: $80
Exam note: Must pass both national and state portions at broker level
Continuing Education 20 hours per 2 years required to maintain active Idaho broker license. Include mandatory ethics and law topics.
M&A Advisor Requirements in Idaho Idaho is a growing market, particularly in agriculture, manufacturing, and tech. Business brokers operate under the real estate broker license. Idaho Department of Finance oversees securities laws. M&A advisors on deals above $10M typically affiliate with FINRA-registered firms.
Industry Certifications (Optional but Career-Critical)
CBI (Certified Business Intermediary) — International Business Brokers Association (IBBA)
M&AMI (M&A Master Intermediary) — IBBA, for deals $5M+
CMAP (Certified M&A Professional) — AM&AA
Series 79 (Investment Banking Representative) — FINRA, for larger M&A advisory
Series 82 (Private Securities Offerings Representative) — FINRA
How to Get Started as a Business Broker in Idaho 1. Complete 90 hrs pre-license coursework 2. Pass the PSI national + Idaho state exam 3. Obtain your Idaho salesperson/associate license 4. Work under a licensed broker for 2 years as licensed salesperson/broker 5. Complete 90 hrs additional broker coursework and pass the broker exam 6. Pursue CBI certification via IBBA to establish market credibility