Agent License FAQs
Common questions about becoming a real estate agent, state exams, and the licensing process.
What are the requirements to become a real estate agent?
The basic path is the same in every state: complete pre-licensing education, pass the state exam, find a sponsoring broker, and submit your application. The details vary quite a bit, though.
Core requirements across all states:
- Be at least 18 years old (19 in a few states)
- Complete state-approved pre-licensing education (40-180 hours depending on the state)
- Pass the state licensing exam (national + state portions)
- Pass a background check
- Find a sponsoring/supervising broker
- Submit your application and pay licensing fees
| Requirement | Range Across States |
|---|---|
| Pre-licensing hours | 40 hrs (MA, MI) to 180 hrs (TX) |
| Exam passing score | 70-75% (varies by state) |
| Application fee | $50-$300 |
| Minimum age | 18-19 |
The sponsoring broker requirement trips up a lot of new agents. You can’t practice independently—you must work under a licensed broker who supervises your transactions. Start interviewing brokerages before you even take your exam so you’re ready to activate your license right away.
Check your specific state’s requirements for exact hours, fees, and deadlines.
What is the real estate licensing exam like?
The exam has two sections: a national portion covering general real estate principles and a state-specific portion covering your state’s laws and regulations. You need to pass both.
| Section | Questions | Topics |
|---|---|---|
| National | 80-100 | Property ownership, contracts, financing, agency, fair housing |
| State | 30-50 | State laws, regulations, commission rules, local practices |
Key details:
- Format: Multiple choice, computer-based
- Time limit: 2.5-4 hours total (varies by state)
- Passing score: Typically 70-75%
- Cost: $50-100 per attempt
- Provider: PSI Services handles about 70% of states; Pearson VUE covers the rest
Pass rates hover around 50-60% on the first attempt nationally, according to exam provider data. That sounds intimidating, but most people who fail didn’t study enough for the state-specific section. The national portion is more predictable.
Study tips that actually work:
- Focus extra time on the state portion—it’s where most people stumble
- Take practice exams under timed conditions
- Don’t just memorize; understand the “why” behind the rules
- Most people need 40-80 hours of study beyond their coursework
If you fail, you can retake it (usually after a short waiting period). Check our exam prep guide for detailed strategies.
How do I find a sponsoring broker?
Every new real estate agent must work under a licensed broker—you can’t hang your license independently. Think of your sponsoring broker as your business home base: they provide legal supervision, office resources, and (usually) training.
What to look for:
- Training program quality — This matters more than anything else when you’re starting out. Ask specifically what their onboarding looks like.
- Commission split — New agents typically start at 50/50 to 70/30 (in your favor). Some brokerages offer 100% commission with monthly desk fees instead.
- Fees and costs — Monthly desk fees, technology fees, MLS dues, E&O insurance. Get the full picture before signing.
- Culture and support — Sit in on a team meeting if they’ll let you. The vibe matters.
Common brokerage models:
| Model | Examples | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional | Keller Williams, RE/MAX, Coldwell Banker | New agents wanting structure and training |
| Cloud-based | eXp Realty, Real | Tech-savvy agents wanting flexibility |
| Boutique/local | Varies by market | Agents wanting niche market focus |
Start reaching out to brokerages before you pass your exam. Many will interview you pre-license and have you ready to start on day one. Interview at least 3-4 offices before deciding—the right fit makes a huge difference in your first year.