South Carolina real estate exam: format, passing score, and how to prepare
The South Carolina real estate exam is a required step to become a licensed real estate agent. It includes 120 questions, is administered by PSI, and requires a score of at least 70% on both the national and state portions to pass. This guide covers the format, scheduling process, test day expectations, and how to prepare.
- South Carolina real estate exam overview
- What is the passing score for the South Carolina real estate exam?
- How hard is the South Carolina real estate exam?
- South Carolina real estate exam math questions
- How to schedule the South Carolina real estate exam
- Where can you take the South Carolina real estate exam?
- Can you retake the real estate exam?
- What to expect on exam day
- Practice questions for the South Carolina real estate exam
- FAQs
South Carolina real estate exam overview
The real estate exam consists of two sections: a national portion and a South Carolina-specific portion. You must pass both sections to qualify for a license.
| Exam Component | Details |
| Total questions | 120 multiple-choice questions |
| National section | 80 questions |
| South Carolina section | 40 questions |
| Time limit | 200 minutes total |
| Passing score | 70% on each section |
| Question format | Multiple-choice |
| Administered by | PSI |
| Results | Immediate (on screen + score report) |
| Penalty for guessing | No penalty for guessing |
What is the passing score for the South Carolina real estate exam?
To pass the real estate exam, you must score at least 70% on both sections.
Passing breakdown:
- National section: 56 out of 80 questions correct
- South Carolina section: 28 out of 40 questions correct
Important scoring details:
- Sections are scored separately
- You can pass one section and retake the other
- Results are displayed immediately after completing the exam
How hard is the South Carolina real estate exam?
The South Carolina real estate exam is moderately challenging, but official pass rates are not publicly available.
What test-takers commonly say:
- Questions focus on applying concepts, not memorization
- State-specific laws require careful study
- Time management is important across both sections
What makes it challenging:
- Broad coverage of national and state topics
- Application-based questions
- Math questions that can slow pacing
Common reasons people fail:
- Not taking enough practice exams
- Weak understanding of state-specific content
- Poor time management
Best ways to pass:
- Take multiple timed practice exams
- Focus on South Carolina laws and regulations
- Use structured exam prep tools
South Carolina real estate exam math questions
The exam includes math-related questions covering real estate calculations.
Common math topics include:
- Commission calculations
- Prorations
- Property taxes
- Loan-to-value ratios
- Property measurements
A basic, non-scientific calculator is allowed.
How to schedule the South Carolina real estate exam
To schedule the real estate exam, you must first complete your pre-licensing education and receive approval from the South Carolina Real Estate Commission.
Steps:
- Submit your application to SCREC
- Complete fingerprinting and background check
- Receive your exam eligibility letter (valid for 1 year)
Schedule your exam online with PSI (Or call: (855) 340-3701)
- Pay the $63 exam fee
Where can you take the South Carolina real estate exam?
You can take the South Carolina real estate exam at PSI testing centers.
Testing locations include:
- Greenville / Spartanburg
- Columbia
- North Charleston
- Beaufort / Hilton Head
- Myrtle Beach
- Charlotte
Can you retake the real estate exam?
Yes, you can retake the South Carolina real estate exam if you do not pass.
| Retake Detail | Information |
| Number of attempts | Unlimited within 1-year eligibility period |
| Waiting period | As soon as next available appointment |
| Retake fee | $63 per attempt |
| Passing one section | Only retake the failed section |
| Score validity | 1 year to pass both sections |
You cannot schedule a retake on the same day as your exam.
What to expect on exam day
You must bring proper identification and follow PSI testing rules.
✓ Bring:
- One form of government ID
- A non-programmable, silent, battery-operated calculator
✗ Leave at home:
- Phones
- Smart devices
- Study materials
- Bags
Testing Details:
- Arrive at least 30 minutes early
- Computer-based exam
- Scratch paper provided
- Immediate results after completion
Practice questions for the South Carolina real estate exam
Question 1
Which of the following is required to create an agency relationship in South Carolina?
a) Verbal agreement only
b) Written agreement between broker and client
c) Listing advertisement
d) Closing statement
Answer: b
Question 2
A property sells for $200,000 with a 5% commission. What is the total commission?
a) $8,000
b) $10,000
c) $12,000
d) $15,000
Answer: b
Get ready to pass your South Carolina 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 Georgia 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.
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Colibri Real Estate offers two exam prep options depending on how much guidance you want:
- Exam Prep
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Pass or Don’t Pay Guarantee
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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
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- If you don’t pass, submit your results to request your refund
FAQs
No. You can take the national and South Carolina sections together or separately. If you pass one section, you only need to complete the remaining section within your one-year eligibility window.
If your one-year eligibility period expires before you pass both sections, you’ll need to reapply with the South Carolina Real Estate Commission and restart the exam approval process.
It’s best to schedule your exam as soon as you receive your eligibility letter, especially if you want a preferred testing date or location. Popular testing slots can fill up quickly.
Yes. You can reschedule or cancel your exam through PSI, but changes must be made at least two days before your scheduled test date to avoid losing your exam fee.
If you arrive after your scheduled start time, you may be denied entry and forfeit your exam fee. Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes early to allow time for check-in.
Yes. PSI offers a nationwide network of testing centers, so you may be able to take the exam outside South Carolina if a location is available.
After passing both sections, your results are sent to the Commission, and you can complete your license application once all requirements, including education and background checks, are on file.