Kentucky real estate exam: format, passing score, and how to prepare
The Kentucky real estate exam is a required step to become a licensed real estate sales associate. It’s administered by PSI on behalf of the Kentucky Real Estate Commission and tests your knowledge of national real estate principles and Kentucky-specific laws. This guide covers the exam format, eligibility, scheduling process, and what to expect on test day so you can move forward with confidence.
- Kentucky real estate exam overview
- What is the passing score for the Kentucky real estate exam?
- How hard is the Kentucky real estate exam?
- Kentucky real estate exam math questions
- How to schedule the Kentucky real estate exam
- Where can you take the Kentucky real estate exam?
- Can you retake the real estate exam?
- What to expect on exam day
- Practice questions for the Kentucky real estate exam
- FAQs
Kentucky real estate exam overview
The real estate exam is required to obtain a Kentucky real estate license and is administered by PSI after you complete your pre-licensing education and begin the background check process.
| Exam Component | Details |
| Total questions | 130 multiple-choice questions |
| National section | 80 questions |
| Kentucky section | 50 questions |
| Time limit | 240 minutes total |
| Passing score | 75% on each section |
| Question format | Multiple-choice |
| Administered by | PSI |
| Results | Immediate (on screen + printed report) |
You must pass both sections to qualify for licensure.
What is the passing score for the Kentucky real estate exam?
To pass the Kentucky real estate exam, you must score at least 75% on both the national and state portions.
Passing breakdown:
- National section: 60 out of 80 questions correct
- Kentucky section: 38 out of 50 questions correct
- Both sections must be passed
Important scoring details:
- Sections are scored separately
- You can pass one section and retake the other
- Results are provided immediately after completing the exam
How hard is the Kentucky real estate exam?
The Kentucky Real Estate Commission and PSI do not publish official pass rates, but the exam is generally considered moderately challenging.
What test-takers commonly experience:
- Questions focus on applying concepts, not just memorization
- Kentucky-specific laws require focused study
- Time management is important across both sections
What makes it challenging:
- Broad coverage of national and state topics
- Scenario-based questions
- Real estate math calculations
Common reasons people fail:
- Not taking enough practice exams
- Weak understanding of Kentucky-specific content
- Rushing through questions
Best ways to pass:
- Take multiple timed practice exams
- Focus on Kentucky license law and rules
- Use structured exam prep tools
Kentucky real estate exam math questions
The exam includes math-related questions on the national portion.
Common math topics include:
- Commission calculations
- Prorations
- Property measurements
- Loan calculations
A non-programmable, silent calculator is allowed during the exam.
How to schedule the Kentucky real estate exam
To schedule the exam, you must complete your education and begin the background check process before registering with PSI.
Steps:
- Complete your pre-licensing education
- Create a PSI account at https://test-takers.psiexams.com/kyre
- Select the Kentucky real estate exam
- Choose a testing location and appointment time
- Pay the $100 exam fee
- Receive your confirmation
You can also schedule by phone at (855) 746-8176.
Where can you take the Kentucky real estate exam?
You can take the Kentucky real estate exam at PSI testing centers.
Testing locations include:
- Bowling Green
- Lexington
- Louisville
- Maysville
- Mount Sterling
- Owensboro
- Paducah
- Somerset
PSI also offers additional testing locations in other states.
Can you retake the real estate exam?
Yes, you can retake the Kentucky real estate exam if you do not pass.
| Retake Detail | Information |
| Number of attempts | No set limit within eligibility period |
| Waiting period | Next available appointment (not same day) |
| Retake fee | $100 |
| Passing one section | Only retake the failed section |
| Time limit | Must pass both sections within 4 months |
If you do not pass both sections within 4 months, you must retake the entire exam.
What to expect on exam day
You must arrive early and follow PSI testing center procedures.
✓ Bring:
- One valid government-issued photo ID that matches your registration
✗ Leave at home:
- Phones or electronic devices
- Notes or study materials
- Bags or personal items
Testing Details:
- Arrive at least 30 minutes early
- Scratch paper provided
- Calculator allowed (non-programmable)
- Immediate results after completion
Practice questions for the Kentucky real estate exam
Question 1
Which type of ownership grants use of a property for a lifetime?
a) Leasehold
b) Life estate
c) Joint tenancy
d) Fee simple
Answer: b
Question 2
A property sells for $200,000 with a 6% commission. What is the total commission?
a) $8,000
b) $10,000
c) $12,000
d) $15,000
Answer: c
Get ready to pass your real estate exam
Colibri Real Estate has helped over 1.5 million students prepare for their real estate exams over the past 29 years. Our Kentucky exam prep is built to help you pass on your first attempt with structured practice, proven tools, and realistic exam simulation so you walk into test day ready, not guessing.
Already completed your pre-licensing course elsewhere? You can purchase exam prep as a standalone program and still get access to Colibri Real Estate’s industry-leading prep tools.
Colibri Real Estate offers three exam prep options depending on how much support you want:
- Exam Prep
A self-paced program powered by CompuCram. Includes simulated exams, unlimited practice tests, flashcards, readiness tracking, and audio review tools. Fully mobile-friendly so you can study anytime, anywhere. - Exam Prep Live
Includes everything in Exam Prep, plus live Q&A with instructors and an Exam Crammer Webinar Series with six focused, instructor-led sessions to reinforce key topics before test day. - Exam Prep Ultimate
Our most comprehensive option. Includes everything in Exam Prep Live, plus the required 48-hour Kentucky post-license course with state-approved instructor support—so you’re prepared not just to pass your exam, but for your next step after licensing.
Are you just getting started? If you’re beginning the licensing process, Colibri Real Estate pre-licensing packages include exam prep tools, plus access to Rubi, an AI-powered study assistant that helps answer questions as you learn. Higher-tier packages also include instructor Q&A and live webinars, similar to Exam Prep Live, so you can complete your coursework and exam prep together without purchasing anything separately.
Pass or Don’t Pay Guarantee
Colibri Real Estate stands behind its exam prep with a clear promise.
If you purchase a qualifying pre-licensing package or standalone exam prep program and don’t pass your state exam on your first attempt, you may be eligible for a full refund.
Here’s how our Pass or Don’t Pay Guarantee works:
- Complete the exam prep program
- Pass at least three practice exams with a score of 80% or higher
- Take your state exam within 30 days of completing the exam prep program
- If you don’t pass, submit your results to request your refund
FAQs
Yes. You must begin the FBI criminal background check process before scheduling your exam.
You only need to retake the section you failed, but both sections must be passed within 4 months.
You must apply for licensure within 60 days of passing the exam.
Yes. PSI offers testing centers in multiple states where you may be able to take the exam.