Nebraska real estate exam: format, passing score, and tips 

The Nebraska real estate exam is a required step to become a licensed real estate salesperson. It consists of 130 scored multiple-choice questions, is administered by Pearson VUE, and tests your knowledge of national real estate principles and Nebraska-specific laws. This guide covers the exam format, scheduling process, test day expectations, and how to prepare with confidence. 

The Nebraska real estate exam is required to obtain a real estate salesperson license and is administered by Pearson VUE after the Nebraska Real Estate Commission approves your eligibility to test. 

Exam Component Details 
Total questions 130 scored multiple-choice questions 
National section 80 questions 
Nebraska section 50 questions 
Time limit 4 hours total 
Passing score 75% on each section 
Question format Multiple-choice 
Administered by Pearson VUE 
Results Immediate (pass/fail + score report) 
Pretest questions 5–10 unscored questions 

 You must pass both the national and Nebraska-specific portions to qualify for licensure.  


To pass the Nebraska real estate exam, you must score at least 75% on both the national and state sections. 

Passing breakdown: 

  • National section: 60 out of 80 questions correct 
  • Nebraska section: 38 out of 50 questions correct 

Important scoring details: 

  • Sections are scored separately 
  • You must pass both portions 
  • Results are provided immediately after completion 
  • Failing candidates receive a diagnostic report showing strengths and weaknesses by topic area 

Your Nebraska license application remains valid for 12 months from the date the Nebraska Real Estate Commission receives it. If your application expires before you complete the exam and licensing process, you must reapply. Shape 

CRE exam prep dashboard screens

The Nebraska real estate exam covers a broad range of national real estate concepts along with Nebraska-specific laws and regulations.  

What test-takers commonly experience: 

  • Questions focus on applying concepts, not just memorization 
  • Nebraska-specific laws and regulations require focused study 
  • Time management is important across a 4-hour exam 

What makes it challenging: 

  • Broad coverage across multiple topic areas 
  • Scenario-based questions 
  • Real estate math calculations 
  • State-specific agency and licensing rules 

Common reasons people fail: 

  • Not taking enough practice exams 
  • Weak understanding of Nebraska-specific content 
  • Poor time management 
  • Focusing only on memorization instead of understanding concepts 

Best ways to pass: 

  • Take multiple timed practice exams 
  • Focus on contracts, agency, and Nebraska law 
  • Use structured exam prep tools 
  • Review explanations for missed questions carefully 

The Nebraska real estate exam includes math-related questions on the national portion. 

  • Total math questions: 7 questions 
  • Topics include calculations involving area, valuation, financing, settlements, investments, and property management 

Common math topics include: 

  • Commission calculations 
  • Prorations 
  • Property measurements 
  • Loan-to-value ratios 
  • Seller proceeds and closing costs 

A calculator is provided on screen during the exam. Personal calculators are not permitted. 

The exam also expects you to know standard measurements such as: 

  • 43,560 square feet per acre 
  • 5,280 feet per mile 

If a math problem slows you down, skip it and return later so you can maximize time on easier questions. 


Before scheduling the Nebraska real estate exam, you must complete your pre-licensing education and submit your application to the Nebraska Real Estate Commission. 

Steps: 

  1. Complete the required Nebraska pre-licensing education  
  2. Submit your application and fees to the Nebraska Real Estate Commission  
  3. Receive approval and authorization to test from Pearson VUE  
  4. Create your Pearson VUE account  
  5. Select the Nebraska real estate exam  
  6. Choose a testing location and appointment time  
  7. Receive your confirmation email  

You can also schedule by phone at (800) 819-3966. 

Once the Nebraska Real Estate Commission receives your application, you have 12 months to complete the exam and licensing process before your application expires.Shape 


You must take the Nebraska real estate exam in person at a Pearson VUE testing center. 

Nebraska testing locations include: 

  • Columbus 
  • Grand Island 
  • Hastings 
  • Lexington 
  • Lincoln 
  • McCook 
  • Norfolk 
  • North Platte 
  • Omaha 
  • Scottsbluff 

Pearson VUE also offers additional nationwide testing centers and military-base testing options.   


No. The Nebraska real estate exam must be taken in person at an approved Pearson VUE testing center. Online remote proctoring is not available. 


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

Retake Detail Information 
Number of attempts Up to 3 retakes within authorization period 
Waiting period Must reapply through NREC before retesting 
Retake fee $150 per attempt 
Sections to retake Salespersons: failed section only 
Passing section validity 6 months or 3 attempts 

If you pass one portion but fail the other, salesperson candidates may retake only the failed section for up to three additional attempts or six months, whichever comes first. If you do not pass both sections within that timeframe, you must retake the full exam. 

Broker candidates must retake the full examination if they fail. 


You must arrive early and follow Pearson VUE testing center procedures.

✓ Bring: 

  • Two forms of valid, non-expired identification
  • One government-issued photo ID with signature 

✗ Do not bring:

  • Phones or electronic devices
  • Notes or study materials
  • Personal calculators
  • Bags or personal belongings 

Testing Details: 

  • Arrive at least 30 minutes early
  • Scratch paper provided
  • Onscreen calculator provided 
  • Immediate results after completion

Question 1 

Which type of agency relationship allows one brokerage to represent both buyer and seller with informed consent? 

a) Single agency 
b) Dual agency 
c) Subagency 
d) Transaction brokerage 

Answer: b 

Question 2 

A property sells for $300,000 with a 6% commission. What is the total commission? 

a) $12,000 
b) $15,000 
c) $18,000 
d) $20,000 

Answer: c 

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

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

Yes. You must complete the required Nebraska pre-licensing education before receiving authorization to test. 

What happens if you fail one section?

Salesperson candidates only need to retake the section they failed, but both sections must be passed within 6 months or 3 attempts.

Can you take the Nebraska real estate exam online?

No. The Nebraska real estate exam must be taken in person at an approved Pearson VUE testing center.

How long do you have to complete both sections?

You must pass both portions within 6 months or 3 additional attempts after passing your first section, whichever comes first. 

Have a question?

Connect with an enrollment advisor today.

By providing my personal information, including phone number, I consent to receive email messages, auto-dialed calls, texts, and prerecorded messages from Colibri Real Estate with information and offers, including current and possible future services, customer service and billing and agree to the Terms of Service & Privacy Policy. If, at any time, you wish to opt out of electronic or text communications, reply STOP to cancel, HELP for help. Msg & data rates may apply. To opt out of email, follow the unsubscribe process on the email communication. I understand that my consent is not required to purchase, and that cancellation of purchase does not automatically revoke this consent.