Texas requires real estate professionals to pass a state licensing or certification exam before practicing independently. Licensing in Texas is overseen by the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC). ExamsLib offers free practice questions and study guides to help you prepare for the Texas real estate exam.
Overview
Exam Overview
In Texas, the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) sets the standards candidates must meet to be licensed in the real estate field. The exam is administered by Pearson VUE and focuses on real estate principles, agency, contracts, and finance, along with the state-specific rules that apply to Texas practitioners.
Because licensing details differ from state to state, it is important to study the Texas requirements specifically rather than relying on national averages. The sections below summarize the license types, exam format, and typical requirements for Texas.
Scope
License Types
Texas recognizes several real estate credential types:
- Sales Agent - Practice under a sponsoring broker. Requires 180 hours of qualifying education.
- Broker - Operate independently and sponsor sales agents. Requires added education and active experience.
- Business Entity Broker - A licensed brokerage entity designated by a broker.
Structure
Exam Format
The Texas real estate exam is a multiple-choice examination administered by Pearson VUE. It is typically delivered by computer at an approved testing center. The number of questions and the time limit vary by license type and exam version, so review the current candidate handbook from Pearson VUE before your test date.
Score
Passing Score
Texas generally requires a passing score on both the national and state sections to pass the real estate licensing exam. Passing thresholds can differ by license type and can be updated by the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC). Confirm the current passing requirement with the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) before your exam date.
Eligibility
Requirements
Typical requirements to sit for the Texas real estate exam include:
- 180 hours of qualifying real estate education.
- A completed application submitted to the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC).
- Payment of applicable examination and licensing fees.
- Any background check or eligibility documentation required by the state.
Requirements can change. Always confirm current licensing rules with the official state licensing authority before applying.
Cost
Fees
Examination and licensing fees in Texas are set by the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) and the testing provider, and are subject to change. Plan for both an application fee and a separate exam scheduling fee paid to Pearson VUE. Always confirm current fee amounts with the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) or Pearson VUE before submitting payment.
Plan Ahead
Study Plan
A focused 4 to 6 week study plan works well for most candidates:
- Week 1-2: Review the fundamentals of Real Estate Principles and Contracts and Agency.
- Week 3-4: Work through Real Estate Finance and Texas-specific rules, then take a full-length practice test.
- Week 5-6: Review every missed question, drill weak areas, and simulate exam timing.
Practice topics on ExamsLib cover Real Estate Principles, Contracts and Agency, Real Estate Finance.
Focus Areas
Study Topics
RP Real Estate Principles
Study real estate principles for your licensing exam. Covers property ownership types, legal descriptions, fair housing law, and appraisal approaches.
Study this topicCA Contracts and Agency
Study contracts and agency for the real estate exam. Covers contract elements, void vs voidable, fiduciary duties, dual agency, and purchase agreements.
Study this topicRF Real Estate Finance
Study real estate finance for your licensing exam. Covers mortgage types, FHA and VA loans, TILA, RESPA, LTV, PMI, and loan amortization basics.
Study this topic
Keep Exploring
Related Pages
Frequently asked questions
Who issues real estate licenses in Texas?
Licensing in Texas is handled by the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC), operating under the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC). Always verify the current process directly with that authority, since rules can change.
Is the Texas real estate exam multiple choice?
Yes. The Texas real estate exam delivered by Pearson VUE is primarily multiple choice and is taken by computer at an approved testing center. Review the current candidate handbook for the exact format.
What score do I need to pass the Texas real estate exam?
Texas generally requires a passing score on both the national and state sections. Passing standards can be revised by the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC), so confirm the current requirement before scheduling.
How do I apply for the Texas real estate exam?
Applications are submitted to the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC). After your eligibility is approved, you schedule the exam through Pearson VUE. Requirements can change, so always verify the current steps with the official authority.