Minnesota real estate exam: format, passing score, and how to schedule

The Minnesota real estate exam is a required step to become a licensed real estate agent. It includes 130 questions, is administered by PSI Services, and requires a score of at least 75% on both the national and state portions to pass. This guide covers the format, scheduling, test day expectations, and how to prepare. 

The real estate exam consists of two sections: a national portion and a Minnesota-specific portion. You must pass both sections to qualify for a license, but you do not have to pass them on the same day. 

Exam Component Details 
Total questions 130 multiple-choice questions (includes unscored experimental questions) 
National section 80 questions 
Minnesota section 50 questions 
Time limit 150 minutes (national) + 90 minutes (state) 
Passing score 75% on each section 
Question format Multiple-choice 
Administered by PSI Services 
Results Immediate (on screen + email report) 
Penalty for guessing No stated penalty for guessing 

To pass the 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 
  • Minnesota 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 
  • Scores are displayed immediately after completing the exam 
CRE exam prep dashboard screens

The Minnesota Department of Commerce and PSI do not publish official pass rates, but test-takers generally describe the exam as moderately challenging. 

What test-takers commonly say: 

  • Questions focus on applying concepts rather than memorization 
  • The state section requires detailed knowledge of Minnesota laws 
  • Time management is important across both sections 

What makes it challenging: 

  • Coverage of both national and Minnesota-specific topics 
  • Application-based and scenario-based questions 
  • Real estate math calculations 

Common reasons people fail: 

  • Not taking enough practice exams 
  • Weak understanding of Minnesota licensing law 
  • Rushing through questions 

Best ways to pass: 

  • Take multiple timed practice exams 
  • Focus on Minnesota-specific content 
  • Use structured exam prep tools 

The national portion includes math-related questions covering real estate calculations. 

Common math topics include: 

  • Commission calculations 
  • Prorations 
  • Property measurements 
  • Loan calculations 
  • Investment calculations 

An on-screen calculator is provided, and personal calculators are not permitted.


To schedule the real estate exam, you must complete your pre-licensing education and create an account with PSI Services. 

Steps: 

  1. Complete your required pre-licensing course  
  2. Create a PSI account or call: (866) 395-1006 
  3. Select the Minnesota real estate exam  
  4. Choose testing format (in-person or remote)  
  5. Select a date and time  
  6. Pay the exam fee ($68 for both portions)  

You can take the Minnesota real estate exam at PSI testing centers across the state or through secure remote online proctoring from home. 

Minnesota testing locations include: 

  • Blaine 
  • Brainerd 
  • Duluth 
  • Eagan 
  • Mankato 
  • Rochester 
  • St. Paul 
  • Willmar 
  • Woodbury 

With remote proctoring, you can test from your own computer while being monitored live by a PSI proctor. This option requires a quiet space, a webcam, and a stable internet connection. 


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

Retake Detail Information 
Number of attempts No set limit 
Waiting period As soon as next available appointment 
Retake fee $45 per section 
Passing one section Only retake the failed section 
Score validity 1 year to pass both sections 

You cannot retake a section you have already passed, and you must pass both sections within one year. 


You must bring one valid government-issued photo ID that matches your registration.

✓ Bring: 

  • Government-issued photo ID 
  • Proof of course completion (required for each attempt)

✗ Leave at home: 

  • Phones 
  • Smartwatches 
  • Bags 
  • Notes or study materials
  • Personal calculators 

Testing Details: 

  • Arrive at least 15 minutes early 
  • Computer-based exam 
  • Scratch paper provided (test center only) 
  • On-screen calculator provided
  • Immediate results after completion

Question 1 
A seller fails to disclose a known defect before closing. What is the most likely outcome? 
a) The sale cannot proceed 
b) The buyer may seek legal remedies 
c) The agent is automatically fined 
d) The contract becomes void 

Answer: b 

Question 2 
A property sells for $240,000 with a 6% commission. What is the total commission? 
a) $10,000 
b) $12,000 
c) $14,400 
d) $15,000 

Answer: c 

Colibri Real Estate has helped over 1.5 million students prepare for their real estate exams over the past 29 years. Our Louisiana 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. 

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   

Can you take the Minnesota real estate exam online?

Yes. PSI offers both in-person testing and remote online proctoring.

What happens if you fail one section?

You only need to retake the section you failed. Your passing score on the other section remains valid. 

How soon can you retake the exam?

You can typically reschedule as soon as the next available testing appointment.

Do you need to complete your pre-licensing education before the exam?

Yes. You must complete Course I before taking the salesperson exam.

What happens after you pass the Minnesota real estate exam?

After passing, your sponsoring broker submits your license application through the PULSE system.

Have a question?

Connect with an enrollment advisor today.

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