Maryland real estate exam: format, passing score, and how to prepare 

The Maryland real estate exam is a required step to become a licensed agent. It includes 110 questions, is administered by PSI, and requires a score of at least 70% on both sections to pass. This guide covers the format, scheduling, test day expectations, and how to prepare. 

The Maryland real estate exam consists of 110 multiple-choice questions divided into two sections: 80 national questions and 30 Maryland-specific questions. 

Exam Component Details 
Total questions 110 multiple-choice questions 
Exam sections National (80) + Maryland (30) 
Time limit 2 hours (120 minutes total) 
Passing score 70% on each section 
Question format Multiple-choice 
Administered by PSI Examination Services 
Math questions ~6–8 questions 
Results Immediate (on screen) 
Penalty for guessing None 

The Maryland real estate exam is challenging but passable with proper preparation. The Maryland Real Estate Commission does not publish official pass rates. 

What test-takers commonly say: 

  • Questions focus on application, not memorization 
  • You must pass both sections under time pressure 
  • Time averages just over one minute per question 
  • Maryland law and brokerage rules require careful study 

To improve your chances of passing:

CRE exam prep dashboard screens

To schedule your Maryland real estate exam, you must complete your 60-hour pre-licensing course and be approved by PSI. 

Steps: 

  • Complete your pre-licensing course 
  • Wait for PSI eligibility confirmation 
  • Create an account at PSI 
  • Select a testing center 
  • Choose a date and time 
  • Pay the $44 exam fee 

You must take the exam in person at a PSI testing center. Online testing is not currently available. 

Maryland testing locations include: 

  • Baltimore 
  • College Park 
  • Crofton 
  • Hagerstown 
  • Laurel 
  • Rockville 
  • Salisbury 
  • Waldorf 

Testing centers are available statewide, and appointment availability may vary.  


Yes, you can retake the Maryland real estate exam if you do not pass. 

Key rules: 

  • No limit on retake attempts 
  • Retake fee: $44 per attempt 
  • You only need to retake the section you failed 
  • Passing scores are valid for up to 1 year from course completion 

You can typically reschedule as soon as PSI processes your results.


What to bring: 

  • One valid government-issued photo ID 

Check-in process: 

  • Identity verification and security screening 

Prohibited items: 

  • Phones, smartwatches, and electronics 
  • Bags or study materials 

Testing rules: 

  • Computer-based exam 
  • Scratch paper provided 
  • Basic calculator may be permitted; check PSI guidelines 
  • No penalty for guessing 

Results: 

You’ll receive your results immediately after completing the exam. 


Question 1  

A buyer is represented by a brokerage under a written agreement. The buyer wants to submit an offer on a property listed by the same brokerage but with a different agent. What must occur? 

a) The transaction must be canceled 
b) The brokerage must act as a dual agent with disclosure and consent 
c) The buyer must find a new agent 
d) The listing must be withdrawn 

Answer: b) 
Explanation: When both parties are represented by the same brokerage, dual agency applies and requires full disclosure and consent. 

Question 2  

Which ownership type allows each owner to transfer their interest independently without consent? 

a) Joint tenancy 
b) Tenancy in common 
c) Community property 
d) Life estate 

Answer: b) 
Explanation: Tenancy in common allows independent transfer of ownership interests. 

Colibri Real Estate has helped over 1.5 million students prepare for their real estate exams over the past 29 years. Our Maryland 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 two exam prep options depending on how much guidance 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. 

Are you just getting started? If you’re just 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 handle your coursework and exam prep together without purchasing anything separately. 

woman at laptop preparing for real estate exam

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   

How long is your Maryland real estate exam score valid?

Your score is valid for up to one year from your course completion date. 

What happens if you pass one section and fail the other?

You only need to retake the section you failed.  

How soon can you retake the Maryland real estate exam?

You can retake it as soon as PSI processes your results, usually the next business day.   

How many math questions are on the Maryland real estate exam?

There are typically around 6–8 math questions. 

What is the most difficult part of the Maryland real estate exam?

Many candidates find the Maryland-specific section most challenging due to detailed laws and regulations.  

Have a question?

Connect with an enrollment advisor today.

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