Real Estate Exam Guide. If you’re considering a career in real estate, passing the real estate licensing exam is one of the most crucial steps. Today, many states offer the flexibility of taking the real estate exam online from home. This blog post will cover which states allow online exams, how to prepare, eligibility requirements, where to complete pre-licensing education, and an exam breakdown.
States That Allow Online Real Estate Exams
With more states adopting remote proctoring, taking the real estate exam online is now more accessible. However, there are still some states that require in-person testing. Real Estate Exam Guide
States Allowing Online Real Estate Exams:
- California – Remote proctoring through the California Department of Real Estate.
- Georgia – Offers online testing through Pearson VUE.
- Texas – Remote proctoring is available through Pearson VUE.
- Virginia – PSI offers online exams for real estate candidates.
- Florida – Pearson VUE administers remote real estate exams.
- North Carolina – Online testing is available through PSI.
- Michigan – Online proctoring is supported by PSI.
States Not Allowing Online Real Estate Exams:
- New York – Requires in-person testing at designated centers.
- New Jersey – Only allows exams at physical proctored locations.
- Illinois – Real estate exams must be taken in person at official centers.
- Ohio – Exams are only administered in person.
- Pennsylvania – Requires candidates to take the exam at a proctored testing center.
Where to Complete Pre-Licensing Education
Before you can even schedule your exam, you’ll need to complete state-approved pre-licensing education. This can typically be done through:
- Real Estate Schools
Many states have accredited real estate schools offering both in-person and online courses. These programs cover state-specific laws and national real estate principles. - Community Colleges
Some community colleges offer real estate pre-licensing courses as part of their continuing education programs. - Online Education Providers
Online real estate education platforms such as Kaplan Real Estate Education, The CE Shop, Real Estate Express, and AceableAgent offer flexible, self-paced pre-licensing courses tailored to state requirements. - Brokerage Programs
Certain brokerages offer training programs that include pre-licensing courses to help prepare future agents for their exam.
Steps to Take for Your Real Estate Exam
Here’s a general overview of the steps you’ll follow to take your real estate exam:
- Complete Pre-License Education
Most states require anywhere from 60 to 180 hours of pre-licensing education. The curriculum typically includes property ownership, real estate law, contracts, agency relationships, and finance. - Submit Your Exam Application
After completing the course, you’ll need to submit an application to your state’s real estate commission. This application usually involves a background check, fingerprinting, and paying exam fees. - Prepare for the Exam
Utilize exam prep resources, study guides, and practice tests to review the material. Focusing on both the national and state-specific portions of the exam is crucial. - Schedule Your Exam
Once your application is approved, you’ll receive instructions on how to schedule your exam. If your state offers online testing, choose a convenient time. Otherwise, schedule a date at a nearby testing center. - Take the Exam
Ensure your testing environment (for online exams) is quiet, free of distractions, and equipped with a stable internet connection. In-person candidates should arrive early with valid identification. - Pass the Exam and Apply for Your License
Once you pass the exam, submit your passing certificate and application for your real estate license. Each state has additional requirements before the license is granted, which may include fees and submission of further paperwork.
Who Is Eligible to Take the Real Estate Exam?
Each state has specific eligibility requirements, but here are the common criteria across most states:
- Age – Most states require candidates to be at least 18 years old. Some states, such as Texas, require applicants to be 21.
- Education – A high school diploma or its equivalent is typically required. Additional education beyond pre-licensing may be needed in some states.
- Completion of Pre-Licensing Education – The completion of required coursework is a must, and candidates must provide proof when submitting their exam application.
- Background Check – A criminal background check is often part of the application process. Certain felonies may disqualify you from obtaining a license.
- U.S. Citizenship or Legal Residency – You must be either a U.S. citizen or a legal resident to apply for a real estate license.
Breakdown of the Real Estate Exam
The real estate exam consists of two parts: the national portion and the state-specific portion. Both sections typically include multiple-choice questions.
National Portion:
The national section focuses on general real estate principles applicable in all states. Topics covered include:
- Property Ownership – Types of ownership, real estate interests, and land use controls.
- Land Use Controls and Regulations – Zoning laws, environmental regulations, and government controls.
- Valuation and Market Analysis – Basic real estate appraisals, pricing, and market factors.
- Financing – Real estate financing methods, loans, mortgages, and liens.
- General Principles of Agency – Types of agency relationships, duties of agents, and client relationships.
- Property Disclosures – Required disclosures and non-disclosure penalties.
- Contracts – Elements of a valid contract, breach of contract, and types of contracts in real estate.
- Leases – Leasing property, lease agreements, and tenant rights.
- Real Estate Math – Calculations for property value, mortgage payments, and commission.
State-Specific Portion:
The state portion varies based on local laws and regulations. Topics typically include:
- Real Estate Licensing Laws – State-specific laws regarding obtaining and maintaining a license.
- Agency Relationships – State-specific rules regarding how agents represent clients.
- Contracts and Legal Documents – Understanding state-required forms and contracts.
- State Property Laws – Regulations regarding property transfers, zoning, and property taxes.
The exam duration varies by state but usually ranges between 2 to 4 hours. Passing scores are also determined by individual state guidelines, often requiring at least a 70% on both portions.
Final Thoughts
Taking the real estate exam can be a significant challenge, but with proper preparation and understanding of state requirements, you can succeed. Ensure that you complete your pre-licensing education, prepare thoroughly for both the national and state-specific portions of the exam, and follow your state’s application process closely. Real Estate Exam Guide
At Grade Hustler, we’re committed to helping you succeed on your real estate journey. Stay tuned for more insights, tips, and resources!
Real Estate Exam Guide: Steps, Requirements, and Practice Tests on Grade Hustler
Getting your real estate license requires passing a licensing exam that tests both your knowledge of general real estate principles and your understanding of state-specific laws. The flexibility of taking the exam online from home is available in some states, but before you get started, it’s important to know how the exam works, where to complete pre-licensing education, and how to prepare for success. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about taking your real estate exam.
States That Allow Online Real Estate Exams
Certain states now offer the convenience of taking your real estate exam from home, but many still require in-person testing. Here’s a breakdown:
States Allowing Online Real Estate Exams:
- California, Texas, Georgia, Virginia, Florida, North Carolina, and Michigan all offer online proctoring options.
States Not Allowing Online Real Estate Exams:
- New York, New Jersey, Illinois, Ohio, and Pennsylvania still require in-person exams at testing centers.
Where to Complete Pre-Licensing Education
Before you can sit for the real estate exam, you must complete your state’s required pre-licensing education. Here’s where you can do that:
- Real Estate Schools – Accredited institutions offer both in-person and online real estate courses.
- Community Colleges – Many community colleges offer real estate licensing courses as part of their continuing education programs.
- Online Education Providers – Trusted online providers like Kaplan Real Estate Education, The CE Shop, and Real Estate Express offer state-specific pre-licensing programs.
- Brokerage Programs – Some real estate brokerages offer training programs that include the required coursework for pre-licensing.
The Difference Between State and National Real Estate Exams
The real estate licensing exam consists of two main parts: the National Portion and the State-Specific Portion. Here’s how they differ:
National Real Estate Exam
The national portion of the exam focuses on general real estate principles and practices that apply across all states. Topics include:
- Property ownership and land use controls
- Real estate contracts and laws
- Financing and mortgages
- Agency and fiduciary duties
- Real estate math and appraisal
This section tests your understanding of broad concepts that every real estate professional should know, regardless of location.
State-Specific Real Estate Exam
The state portion covers laws, rules, and regulations specific to the state where you are seeking your license. This section is more specialized and typically includes:
- Licensing requirements and procedures
- State-specific agency laws and contracts
- Property transfer rules and taxation
- Zoning, land use, and property disclosures
- State-specific ethics and legal procedures
In short, the national portion covers universal real estate knowledge, while the state portion focuses on the legalities and regulations particular to your state. Real Estate Exam Guide
Steps to Take for Your Real Estate Exam
Here’s a quick overview of the steps you’ll need to follow to take your real estate exam:
- Complete Pre-Licensing Education – Enroll in an approved real estate course that meets your state’s requirements.
- Submit Your Exam Application – Apply with your state’s real estate commission and undergo a background check.
- Prepare for the Exam – Use study guides, real estate prep courses, and practice exams to review key topics.
- Schedule Your Exam – Once approved, book your exam either online (if your state allows) or at an authorized testing center.
- Take the Exam – Pass both the national and state portions, then apply for your real estate license.
Real Estate Exam Breakdown
The real estate exam is made up of multiple-choice questions split into two parts:
National Portion
This part of the exam covers general real estate knowledge. You’ll face questions on:
- Real Estate Law – Property ownership, types of interests, and rights.
- Financing – Mortgages, loans, and liens.
- Contracts – Essentials of contracts, listing agreements, and agency.
- Real Estate Math – Calculating property values, commissions, and loan payments.
- Disclosures and Environmental Issues – Required disclosures and penalties for non-disclosure.
State-Specific Portion
This section focuses on your state’s unique real estate laws. You’ll be tested on:
- Licensing Requirements – How to obtain and renew your license.
- Contracts and Agency Relationships – How agents operate under state law.
- Property Management – State regulations on property management.
- Real Estate Practices – Zoning laws, land use regulations, and local ordinances.
Passing scores vary by state, but you generally need to score at least 70% to 75% on each section to pass.
Real Estate Practice Tests and Past Exams
Preparation is key to passing the real estate exam on your first try. One of the most effective ways to prepare is by taking real estate practice tests or reviewing past exam questions. These practice exams can help you familiarize yourself with the format, question types, and time constraints of the real exam.
Why Practice Tests Are Important:
- Identify Weak Areas: Practice tests help you discover which topics need more attention.
- Build Confidence: Familiarity with the question format reduces exam-day anxiety.
- Timing: Practice managing your time effectively to ensure you can answer all questions within the time limit.
You can access high-quality real estate practice tests and past exam questions at Grade Hustler. Our tests are designed to simulate the real exam experience, giving you the practice you need to succeed. Remember, you can hire tutors on our website to do everthing for you.
Tips for Success
- Create a Study Plan – Break down study materials into manageable sections and set a schedule.
- Take Practice Tests – Use real estate practice tests to gauge your readiness and adjust your study plan accordingly.
- Focus on Weak Areas – Spend extra time studying topics where you score low on practice tests.
- Join Study Groups – Connect with other real estate candidates to share knowledge and tips.
- Stay Organized – Keep track of important dates, application materials, and exam results.
Conclusion
Passing the real estate exam is a significant milestone on your path to becoming a licensed real estate professional. By understanding the difference between the national and state portions of the exam, completing the required pre-licensing education, and using resources like practice tests from Grade Hustler, you’ll set yourself up for success.
For more practice tests, study tips, and resources, visit Grade Hustler and take your first step toward a rewarding real estate career! Real Estate Exam Guide
