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Getting your real estate license is an exciting time! Thinking about your real estate exam prep, though, can be nerve-wracking. If you’re like many aspiring real estate agents, it’s likely been a few years since you’ve been in school and taken a test.
Not to worry. Our helpful guide will point you in the right direction, providing you with the resources you need to go into your real estate exam with confidence and knowledge.
The basics of the exam
Before we get to the studying part, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the basics of the real estate exam. Check out our quick-start guide to the exam itself to help you get started.
The structure
Real estate exams are typically multiple-choice, with anywhere from 75 to 150 questions; however, the exact structure and number of questions vary by state. It consists of a combination of a national exam and a state exam.
In my state of Massachusetts, for example, the exam consists of 120 questions, 80 of which are about national real estate principles and 40 about state-specific laws. Our exam does include math, as do many state exams, so it’s a must to brush up on your basic math skills.
The format
These days, almost all real estate exams are administered online, either at designated testing centers or from the comfort of your home, often called “remote proctored” exams.
Time allotted
Depending on your state, you will have anywhere from two to four hours to complete the exam.
Topics covered
The most common topics covered in the real estate exam are:
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National topics |
State-specific topic |
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Look to your state’s real estate board website or search on one of our favorite education companies (The CE Shop, Kaplan, or Colibri Real Estate) for specifics for your state’s exam.
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The cost
The fee to take the real estate salesperson license exam is one of the lowest singular costs in the process of obtaining your license. Fees vary, ranging from $40 to $200, with the average cost being around $60. Your pre-licensing course and any exam prep courses are pricier, ranging from $100 to $1,000. Once you pass your real estate exam, you’ll also need to pay a fee to obtain your real estate license, with fees ranging from $80 to $400, depending on your state.
Eligibility requirements
Specific requirements and prerequisites vary by state, and most states require being at least 18 years old, completing a certain number of pre-licensing coursework through a real estate board-approved school, submitting to a background check, providing references and of course, passing the exam.
What to bring to the exam
While this can vary by state, most states will require you to bring two forms of ID, including a photo ID like your driver’s license and an ID with your signature (a credit card should work), with you when you arrive to take your exam. Some states allow a calculator, and others require you to bring proof of your completed pre-licensing education course. I’d always recommend bringing a bottle of water, a pencil and scratch paper and tissues, just in case.
How hard is the real estate exam?
The difficulty of the real estate exam depends on your state, how well prepared you are and whether you’re a good test taker. According to World Population Review, the national average pass rate for real estate exams is only 50% and the most difficult state to get licensed in is Texas. So don’t feel discouraged if you don’t pass the first time!
Most states require a score of at least 70% to pass, and you may be able to retake an individual portion of the exam if you pass one section but not another. Check with your state for details.
Strategies and tips for acing your real estate exam
Now that you know the basics, here are our strategies for how to study for the real estate exam and pass it on your first try.
1. Create a study schedule
Use your calendar as a tool to keep you on track with your study schedule. Plan to set aside time to study for the exam for 30 minutes per day; this consistency will help you stay on track without feeling overwhelmed. I’d start studying as soon as you’ve completed your pre-licensing coursework. I’d also schedule the test as soon as possible, so the information is fresh in your mind.
2. Gather study materials
Think about your individual learning style, and use the study tools that are best suited to you. Maybe you do well with flash cards, or perhaps you prefer watching videos. My personal favorite is taking timed practice tests. I find timed practice exams to be most effective because you’ll get a sense not only of the types of questions on the exam, but you’ll also be able to gauge your time management and improve that if necessary.
If you’re running out of time before answering all the questions on the practice exam, you’ll know you need to work on moving through the questions faster.
3. Take advantage of exam prep options
There are many real estate schools out there, offering the basic prelicensing curriculum plus add-ons to help you improve your study skills. Here are the best schools to help you prepare to take (and pass) your real estate exam:
- The CE Shop (use promo code: HW30 to save 30%): Offers an initial assessment to help you find your areas of focus, curated practice questions and recommendations for further study. Also, individual lessons by topic, unlimited practice questions, an interactive dashboard and exam readiness tracker.
- Colibri Real Estate (use promo code: Housingwire40 to save 40%): Offers a readiness assessment, digital flashcards, simulated exams, audio review lessons and a “pass or don’t pay” guarantee.
- Kaplan: Offers an exam prep course delivered by video or live online, access to unlimited practice questions, real estate exam prep book and lecture outlines with multiple-choice and true or false questions.
Each of these companies offers pre-exam prep for each state in the country. Utilize the resources available to you to set yourself up for success and increase your chances of passing your real estate exam on the first try!
Related article
Free real estate practice exam + 7 study hacks to ace the real estate exam
4. Start or join a study group
Collaborating with others who are pursuing their real estate licenses can be incredibly helpful. Quiz each other, ask questions and teach each other to sharpen your own skills and retain the necessary knowledge for the exam. Teaching others solidifies concepts in the mind, so this is a great hack! And if you can’t find a study group to join, start your own.
5. Take your time during the exam
While the time limit certainly adds an element of pressure, take your time answering the questions on the exam. Read each question carefully and review your answers before submitting to avoid making mistakes. And remember to breathe!
6. Get a good night’s sleep
Celebrate after you pass your exam, not the night before. Get a good night’s rest, and do whatever your mind and body need to be at your best for the test day, whether that’s exercising, eating a healthy breakfast or fasting.
7. Arrive at the testing center early
If you’re taking the exam in person, leave early and plan to arrive early. The stress of running late will put a strain on your mind and isn’t conducive to test-taking. If you’re using an online service, log in early to make sure you don’t have any connectivity issues.
8. Answer every question
Even if you have to make an educated guess, be sure to answer all the questions. An unanswered question is a guaranteed zero, while a guess gives you a chance at getting the answer correct.
9. Use the process of elimination
As you move through the exam questions, answer all the ones you are sure about first, skipping questions you don’t know the answer to. Go back to them at the end and make your best guess, using the process of elimination to increase your odds of getting it right.
10. Take deep breaths during the exam
Remember to breathe. Breathing through the stress will not only calm your nervous system and alleviate anxiety, but it will send more oxygen to your brain and actually improve brain function.
Helpful links
- Association of Real Estate License Law Officials
- National Association of Realtors
- Pearson Vue Examinations
- PSI Testing
The full picture
The real estate exam is a significant milestone on your journey to becoming a successful real estate agent or broker. By following our guide, you’ll unlock the secrets to mastering the real estate exam. Remember to stay focused, maintain a positive mindset and trust in your preparation. With dedication and perseverance, we have no doubt you’ll ace the real estate exam and embark on a fulfilling career in real estate.
About Ashley Harwood
Ashley Harwood began her real estate career in 2013 and built a six-figure business as a solo agent before launching Move Over Extroverts in 2018. She developed training materials, classes, and coaching programs for her fellow introverts. Beginning in 2020, Ashley served as Director of Agent Growth for three Keller Williams offices in the Boston metro area. She’s now the Lead Listing agent for the Fleet Homes team in Massachusetts and a regular contributor to Vetted by HousingWire. She created The Quiet Success curriculum and has taught thousands of real estate agents nationwide. She has also been a guest speaker at top industry events and has been named a leading real estate coach by prominent industry publications.
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By: Ashley Harwood, Natalia Oliver
Title: Real estate exam prep: The ultimate guide to passing your exam
Sourced From: www.housingwire.com/articles/real-estate-exam-prep/
Published Date: Mon, 29 Sep 2025 14:07:53 +0000
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