How to become a real estate agent in Tennessee
Learn the five simple steps to get a real estate license in Tennessee.
How to get your real estate license in Tennessee
Ready to launch your real estate career and become a licensed affiliate broker in Tennessee? We’ve broken down the requirements into clear, manageable steps so you can navigate the process with confidence.
Step 1
Meet the basic eligibility requirements
Before diving into the licensing process, you need to make sure you meet the essential criteria set by the state. To be eligible, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a high school diploma or a GED equivalent
- Be legally authorized to work in the United States and have a valid Social Security number or equivalent
- Disclose any criminal history as part of a background check
Step 2
Complete your Tennessee pre-licensing education
The state requires aspiring affiliate brokers to complete two sections of pre-licensing education from an approved provider.
- Total hours: 90
Colibri Real Estate offers flexible, self-paced courses in Tennessee, allowing you to learn in a way that fits your schedule. Each course is designed by active, experienced real estate professionals who understand the Tennessee market, so you gain practical, up-to-date industry knowledge.
Step 3
Prepare for and pass the licensing exam
Once your school forwards proof of completing the first part of your licensing courses to the testing company (PSI), you can register for the Tennessee real estate licensing exam. This exam assesses your knowledge of national and state-specific real estate laws, practices, and procedures.
To pass the exam, you should utilize quality exam prep tools and complete the following:
- Take practice tests to familiarize yourself with the content.
- Join study groups to exchange knowledge with peers.
Review state-specific laws and national real estate principles.
Step 4
Find a sponsoring brokerage
After passing the licensing exam, you must affiliate with a sponsoring brokerage to activate your license. This real estate brokerage firm will be your professional foundation, so research potential partners thoroughly.
Ask these questions when choosing a broker:
- Do they offer training and mentorship for new agents?
- What are their commission splits and fee structures?
- Does the company have a strong reputation and ample resources to support your growth?
Step 5
Complete the application process
Before you can be licensed, you must complete the final section of pre-licensing education. When those hours are complete, you need to submit your official license application to the Tennessee Real Estate Commission (TREC) within one year of passing your first exam section. Ensure all documents are accurate and submitted on time to avoid processing delays.
You’ll need to:
- Submit fingerprints for a mandatory background check through IdentoGO.
- Provide proof of citizenship or legal presence affidavit.
- Provide proof of completed coursework and your passing exam results.
- Pay the application fee.
- Obtain Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance to protect yourself and your clients.
Take the first step toward your Tennessee real estate career
Becoming a real estate agent in Tennessee is an exciting first step toward a financially rewarding career.
Ready to get started? Colibri Real Estate has helped more than 1.5 million aspiring agents launch their careers with confidence. Our Tennessee courses are designed by industry experts and built for flexibility, so you can learn at your own pace while staying on track.
With built-in exam prep, realistic practice tests, and Rubi, your AI-powered study assistant, you’ll have the tools and support you need to prepare effectively and walk into exam day ready.
FAQs
The process generally takes three to five months, depending on how quickly you complete coursework and schedule your exam.
Becoming a real estate agent in Tennessee is more affordable than you would think, compared with training required for other career changes.
Cost of becoming a real estate agent in TN
– Pre-licensing courses $200 – $800
– Exam fee $63 (per attempt)
– License application fee $91
– Errors & omissions insurance $115 (for two years)
– Fingerprinting & background check Approx. $40
– Total estimated cost $509 – $1,109
An affiliate broker works under the supervision of a sponsoring broker. A broker has additional training, experience, and authority to open their own brokerage.