Have you ever considered becoming a real estate agent but wondered, “How hard is it to get a real estate license?” You’re not alone. This is one of the most common questions people ask when thinking about starting a career in real estate. The answer depends on many factors like your state’s requirements, your time commitment, and your ability to pass the real estate exam.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know — from education to licensing — to help you understand how challenging (or manageable) the process really is.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction: Why People Ask “How Hard Is It to Get a Real Estate License?”
The real estate industry is attractive. It promises flexibility, high earning potential, and independence. But many hesitate because they’re unsure how difficult it is to get started. If you’re searching for “how hard is it to get a real estate license”, you likely want a straightforward, honest answer — and that’s what this article delivers.
2. Real Estate License Basics
Before we dive into the difficulty level, let’s get a clear picture of what a real estate license actually is.
A real estate license allows an individual to legally help people buy, sell, or rent property in a particular state. There are two main types:
- Real Estate Salesperson License (entry-level)
- Real Estate Broker License (advanced; requires experience)
To get licensed, you’ll typically need to:
- Meet age and education requirements
- Complete pre-licensing education
- Pass the state licensing exam
- Submit a background check
- Get sponsored by a brokerage (in most states)
- Pay license application and exam fees
3. State-by-State Licensing Requirements
The process to get a real estate license varies by state. For example:
| State | Pre-License Education Hours | Pass Score | Continuing Ed |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 135 hours | 70% | 45 hrs/4 yrs |
| Texas | 180 hours | 70% | 18 hrs/2 yrs |
| Florida | 63 hours | 75% | 14 hrs/2 yrs |
| New York | 77 hours | 70% | 22.5 hrs/2 yrs |
| Illinois | 75 hours | 75% | 12 hrs/2 yrs |
So, how hard is it to get a real estate license in your state? It depends on how many hours of education are required and how tough the exam is.
4. How Long Does It Take to Get a Real Estate License?
For most people, it takes 2 to 6 months to get a real estate license. This timeline depends on:
- How quickly you complete your courses
- Your availability to study and prepare
- How soon you schedule and pass your exam
Some states like Texas require more hours, so it may take longer there.
5. Cost Breakdown of Getting Licensed
Let’s be honest — cost can be a factor in how hard it feels to get licensed. Here’s a breakdown of typical expenses:
| Expense | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Pre-licensing course | $200 – $1,000 |
| Exam fee | $50 – $100 |
| Background check/fingerprints | $50 – $100 |
| License application fee | $100 – $300 |
| MLS & association fees | $500 – $1,200/year |
| Total initial cost | $900 – $2,500 |
Some brokerages may reimburse part of these costs after you join them.
6. Is the Real Estate Exam Hard?
Here’s where it gets tricky.
The real estate license exam is considered moderately difficult. Nationally, the pass rate for first-time test-takers ranges from 50% to 65%.
The exam usually has two parts:
- National Portion – Laws and general principles
- State Portion – State-specific laws and regulations
You’ll need to pass both sections in a limited time, typically 2-4 hours total.
Real Estate Exam Topics:
- Real property characteristics
- Contracts and agreements
- Agency relationships
- Financing and mortgages
- Property valuation
- Real estate law and ethics
- State-specific laws
So, how hard is it to get a real estate license? The exam is the biggest hurdle for most, but it’s manageable with good preparation.
7. Tips to Pass the Real Estate Exam
Here’s how to improve your chances of passing the real estate licensing exam on your first try:
- Choose a Reputable Pre-Licensing School
- Use Exam Prep Materials
- Take Practice Exams
- Create a Study Plan
- Join a Study Group
- Review State-Specific Content
- Get Enough Rest Before Exam Day
Remember: passing the exam isn’t just about memorizing — it’s about understanding real estate concepts.
8. Online vs In-Person Licensing Courses
The mode of learning can impact how hard it feels to get your license.
Online Courses
Pros:
- Self-paced
- More affordable
- Flexible
Cons:
- Requires discipline
- No in-person interaction
In-Person Courses
Pros:
- Structured schedule
- Real-time instructor help
Cons:
- Less flexible
- Often more expensive
Choose the format that fits your lifestyle and learning preferences.
Publised By: Aakashdeep Times