Indiana Business Broker & M&A Advisor License Requirements
Becoming a licensed business broker or M&A advisor in Indiana requires meeting specific education, exam, and experience standards. This guide covers every requirement, fee, and regulatory pathway for Indiana as of 2025–2026.
License Type Required in Indiana Real estate broker license required. Indiana business brokers operate under the Real Estate Broker License, regulated by the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency (IPLA) / Indiana Real Estate Commission.
Education Requirements
Pre-license (salesperson): 90 hours of approved coursework
Broker upgrade: Broker license pathway includes 90 hrs upfront
Experience Required 2 years as licensed salesperson/broker.
Exam & Licensing Fees
Exam: Pearson VUE — national + Indiana state exam
Application fee: $60
License fee: $40
Exam note: Indiana uses 'broker' for what other states call 'salesperson'
Continuing Education 12 hours per 3 years required to maintain active Indiana broker license. Include mandatory ethics and law topics.
M&A Advisor Requirements in Indiana Indiana's manufacturing base (automotive, pharma) generates steady M&A activity. Business brokers use the real estate broker license. Indiana Securities Division oversees securities law. M&A advisors on larger deals affiliate with FINRA broker-dealers. The SEC M&A Broker exemption applies to qualifying private company sales.
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 Indiana 1. Complete 90 hrs pre-license coursework 2. Pass the Pearson VUE — national + Indiana state exam 3. Obtain your Indiana salesperson/associate license 4. Work under a licensed broker for 2 years as licensed salesperson/broker 5. Complete Broker license pathway includes 90 hrs upfront and pass the broker exam 6. Pursue CBI certification via IBBA to establish market credibility