How Difficult is It to Get a Real Estate License
Getting a real estate license is moderately challenging, requiring 60 to 180 hours of state-approved coursework, passing a comprehensive state exam with a 70% to 75% score, passing a background check, and finding a sponsoring broker.
Real Estate Licensing Requirements by State
Every state sets its own pre-licensing educational hours and minimum age requirements to become a licensed real estate salesperson.
| State Example | Required Pre-Licensing Hours | State Exam Passing Score | Average Time to Complete |
|---|---|---|---|
| California (DRE) | 135 Hours (3 College-Level Courses) | 70% Score | 3 - 5 Months |
| Texas (TREC) | 180 Classroom Hours (6 Courses) | 70% (National) / 75% (State) | 4 - 6 Months |
| Florida (DBPR) | 63 Hours Coursework | 75% Score | 1 - 2 Months |
| New York (DOS) | 77 Hours Qualifying Course | 70% Score | 2 - 3 Months |
Exam First-Time Pass Rates and Total Startup Costs
Nationwide, first-time pass rates range between 50% and 65%. Budgeting for licensing courses, exam fees, and broker association dues ensures smooth launch.
| Licensing Expense | Fee Breakdown | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Licensing Real Estate School | Online or in-person course packages | $200 - $600 |
| State Exam & Background Check | Exam proctoring & FBI fingerprinting | $100 - $200 |
| State License Application Fee | Official 2-year license issuance | $150 - $350 |
| Realtor Association & MLS Dues | Local board, NAR, and MLS database access | $600 - $1,500 / Year |
How to Get Your Real Estate License in 4 Steps
Follow this roadmap to complete coursework, pass the exam, and activate your license.
Step 1: Complete State Pre-Licensing Education
Enroll in an accredited online real estate school and finish required credit hours.
Step 2: Submit Fingerprints and Background Check
Schedule a live-scan electronic fingerprinting appointment with your state licensing board.
Step 3: Pass the State and National Real Estate Exam
Take the computerized proctored exam and score 70% or higher on both sections.
Step 4: Join a Sponsoring Brokerage Firm
Select a licensed real estate broker to sponsor and activate your active license with the state.
Frequently Asked Questions (7 Questions Answered)
Q1: What is the hardest part of getting a real estate license?
Memorizing real estate law, legal property descriptions, finance calculations, and fiduciary rules for the state-specific exam portion is widely considered the most challenging part.
Q2: What is the pass rate for the real estate exam?
Nationwide first-time real estate exam pass rates average between 50% and 65%, though taking practice prep exams raises pass rates above 80%.
Q3: How much does it cost to get a real estate license in total?
Total startup costs range between $1,200 and $2,500 including pre-licensing education, exam fees, fingerprints, licensing fees, and first-year MLS board dues.
Q4: Can you get a real estate license with a criminal record?
Each state board reviews criminal history on a case-by-case basis. Non-violent misdemeanors are often approved, while financial fraud, forgery, or felony convictions may disqualify applicants.
Q5: Can you finish real estate courses online at your own pace?
Yes. Most states approve self-paced online real estate schools, allowing motivated students to finish coursework in 3 to 6 weeks.
Q6: Do you need a college degree to get a real estate license?
No. A high school diploma or GED equivalent and minimum age (18 or 19 depending on the state) is all that is required.
Q7: Can you sell real estate part-time?
Yes. Many licensed agents start part-time while maintaining another job, provided their sponsoring broker permits part-time agent sponsorship.
Final Thoughts & Key Takeaways
In conclusion, understanding how difficult is it to get a real estate license provides essential clarity, practical strategies, and actionable advice. By incorporating these foundational insights, adhering to verified safety guidelines, and following structured best practices, you ensure reliable, long-term outcomes while preventing common mistakes. Stay informed, consult certified professionals when needed, and maintain consistent quality care.