Getting to this stage in your quest to become a realtor in TX requires a pat on the back. However, exam time strikes fear in many students. The real estate exam will gauge your understanding of the pre-licensing program.
Prepping for the exam is a crucial step. Registering for the exams if you are still unprepared and not confident will jeopardize your chances of acing them. In this guide are the steps to follow when scheduling your exams. Also included are tips to help you revise and prepare for the test.
Contents
First Things First – Understanding the Texas Real Estate Licensing Requirements
When preparing for your realtor exams in Texas, the first step is to familiarize yourself with the state’s licensing requirements. Texas has specific criteria that must be met before you can even sit for the exam, including completing the required pre-licensing education hours and passing a background check. It’s essential to thoroughly understand these requirements to avoid any surprises down the line. According to studies, a significant number of applicants delay their exam preparation due to incomplete or misunderstood requirements. Taking the time to get this right can save you both time and frustration.
When preparing to become a realtor in Texas, it’s essential to start with a clear understanding of the state-specific licensing requirements. Here’s a practical guide to help you seamlessly:
- Educational Requirements:
- Complete the Required Pre-Licensing Courses: You must complete 180 hours of approved real estate courses, which include:
- Principles of Real Estate I (30 hours)
- Principles of Real Estate II (30 hours)
- Law of Agency (30 hours)
- Law of Contracts (30 hours)
- Promulgated Contract Forms (30 hours)
- Real Estate Finance (30 hours)
- Choosing a Real Estate School: Opt for a TREC (Texas Real Estate Commission) approved school. Online options are available, and some schools offer exam prep in their curriculum.
- Complete the Required Pre-Licensing Courses: You must complete 180 hours of approved real estate courses, which include:
- Background Check:
- Fingerprinting and Background Check: As part of the application process, you’ll need to submit fingerprints and undergo a background check by the Texas Department of Public Safety and the FBI. This step is crucial to ensure there are no legal impediments to your licensure.
- Addressing Potential Issues: If you have prior misdemeanors or felonies, consult with a licensing attorney to discuss how this might affect your application.
- Exam Preparation:
- Register for the Exam: Once your education is complete, apply to take the licensing exam through the Texas Real Estate Commission’s website.
- Study and Preparation: Utilize study guides and consider enrolling in additional exam prep courses if needed. Understanding the format and types of questions can significantly improve your confidence on exam day.
- Application Process:
- Submitting Your Application: You can apply online via the TREC website. Ensure all information is accurate to avoid delays. The application fee as of now is $205.
- Sponsorship by a Broker: Before you can practice, you must be sponsored by a licensed Texas real operator broker. Start networking early to find a suitable sponsorship.
- Post-License Education:
- Continuing Education: After obtaining your license, you’ll need to complete 98 hours of Sales Agent Apprentice Education (SAE) within the first two renewal periods, and then 18 hours of continuing education every two years thereafter.
- Practical Tips:
- Timeline: Start the process early, as gathering documents and completing courses can take longer than anticipated.
- Investment: Budget for not only the educational and application costs but also for the period where you might not yet be earning commissions.
- Networking: Engage with local real estate groups and find a mentor who can guide you through the early stages of your career.
Your Exam Check List
To ensure you’re thoroughly prepared on the day of your Texas real estate licensing exam, follow this detailed checklist:
- Documentation:
- Bring two forms of identification; one must be a government-issued photo ID.
- Have your exam confirmation number handy, typically provided after you register for the exam.
- Materials Needed:
- Check if you are allowed to bring a calculator and ensure it meets the exam requirements (usually non-programmable).
- Bring basic stationery like pens, pencils, and erasers.
- Study Materials:
- Review all course materials thoroughly in the week leading up to the exam.
- Carry any allowed reference materials, as specified by the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC).
- Health and Well-being:
- Get a good night’s sleep before the exam day.
- Eat a healthy meal before the test to ensure you are energized and alert.
- Time Management:
- Arrive at the exam center at least 30 minutes early to accommodate any last-minute registration formalities and to settle in.
- Wear a watch to keep track of time during the exam, as some centers might not have a visible clock.
- Exam Strategies:
- Read each question carefully before answering and watch out for keywords that might affect your answer.
- Manage your time effectively, ensuring that you have enough time to review your answers.
- Post-Exam Requirements:
- Familiarize yourself with the procedure for obtaining your exam results.
- Understand the next steps after passing the exam, such as applying for your license and finding a broker sponsorship.
Don’t be in a hurry to plan your exams before going through this checklist. You must have a certificate issued by the school where you did your real estate pre-licensing program. This is proof that you finished the pre-licensing coursework offered by realty schools like RealEstateU as required by TREC.
By following this checklist, you can approach your exam day with confidence, knowing that you are well-prepared and have everything you need.
Pearson VUE is the official exam partner in Texas. As a student, you need to create an account on the Pearson VUE website if you don’t have one. You can register, schedule your exams, and choose your testing center via your user account.
The last thing you require is the exam fee. This charge is payable every time you register for the exam. Registering for the exam in TX will set you back around $54. You can register and retake the exams if you don’t pass on your first attempt.
Scheduling Your Test
You can do everything online via your Pearson VUE portal. However, you can also contact the support team for extra help if you aren’t tech-savvy. The website will display available exam dates and testing centers near your location.
Take your time and plan well to avoid issues later. We recommend choosing a testing location near your home or place of work. The goal is to reduce stressful travel time and ensure that you are at the location on time.
Also, check your schedule and choose a date that you don’t have other extra commitments.
Adequate Preparation is Crucial
Nervousness before the exam should not scare you. However, adequate revision and preparation can help calm your nerves. You can invest in exam preparation courses or hire a professional tutor to help you study.
If you don’t have money to buy an exam prep package, check out your local library for study materials. While you’re at it, don’t forget to get your copy of the Pearson VUE Texas real estate candidate handbook. This book contains all of the exam rules and regulations, exam format, and topics that will be tested.
Ensure that you get a good night’s sleep on the eve of the exam day. This will help you feel energized and more focused the next day.
Summing Up
Real estate exam scheduling involves adequate preparation. Take time and invest in quality revision materials before scheduling your exams. Join discussion forums and ask questions on topics or concepts you don’t understand well.
As mentioned, select a testing center near you to avoid too much travel on the exam day.
