How to Become a Texas Real Estate Agent
Unlike other professions that require years of training – or even a college degree – you can get your real estate license in Texas within a few months. We’ll walk you through the process and help you pick out a Texas real estate school.
Prerequisites to get your real estate license in Texas:
- You must be at least 18 years old.
- You must be eligible to work in the U.S. — either a U.S. citizen or a lawfully admitted alien.
Here’s the step-by-step process.
5 Steps To Get Your Real Estate License in Texas
Step 1: Enroll in a Texas real estate school
The Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) requires candidates to take 180 hours of coursework before sitting for the real estate licensing exam.
The Texas real estate pre-licensing course covers heavy topics like agency law, real estate ethics, and contracts. You need to have an intimate knowledge of these subjects to pass the licensing exam – and to guide your future clients as they buy and sell properties.
Do your research when choosing a Texas real estate school. Most people choose to take the courses online because that method offers more flexibility than in-person classes.
As you research online real estate schools, look at previews of their materials to understand how the subject matter is presented. Read reviews and look at success rates. Some real estate schools even offer a pass-or-don’t-pay guarantee.
Step 2: Pass the course final exam
When you have completed the 180-Hour Texas Pre-licensing Course, you must pass a course final exam that will help prepare you to pass the licensing exam..
Step 3: Complete the background check
Once you have your TREC ID number, schedule an appointment at one of the MorphoTrust locations across the state. Bring a photo ID, your TREC eligibility letter, and a check for $39.70 to your appointment. (You can use a credit card if you pay online in advance, but you will be charged a slightly higher rate –$40.85.)
Step 4: Apply for your Texas real estate license
Once you have completed your coursework, begin the application process by visiting the TREC website to create an account. Then, complete the online Application for an Inactive Real Estate Sales Agent License and pay the $185 fee.
The application will only take a few minutes to complete and requires your legal name found on your government-issued ID and your Social Security number.
The rest of the application requires you to provide information on your legal background and previously held professional licenses. This information is required, as you must pass a background check to work as a real estate sales agent in Texas.
Once your application is submitted and approved, TREC will send you a letter with your ID number. Once you have received that number, you can continue the licensing process.
Step 5: Pass the state license exam
Have you completed your pre-licensing real estate courses (and have the documentation to prove it?) Have you passed your background check? If so, it’s time to schedule your license exam.
Pearson VUE administers the real estate exam in Texas. Visit their website or call Pearson VUE to schedule your test. You may be able to take your exam at home with virtual proctoring. The exam costs $43 each time you take it.
Related: Texas real estate license exam prep
(TIP: When you sign up for the exam, make sure your name and personal information match the data found on your ID.)
The Texas real estate license exam includes both a national and Texas-specific section. You have four hours to complete the multiple-choice test.
As you can imagine, most people need time to prepare for the Texas real estate exam. Some real estate schools include exam prep materials to make studying easier. If your real estate school didn’t provide these tools, we recommend purchasing an exam prep package with practice exams.
Your score will immediately appear on the screen when you finish the licensing exam. If you pass the test and the background check, you’ll receive your license from TREC via email within five to 10 business days. From there, you’ve officially become a licensed real estate agent in Texas!
Additional Steps
For New License Holders: Find a Sponsoring Broker
Beginning real estate agents in Texas must have a broker oversee all their transactions. In fact, this is a requirement for all real estate agents unless or until they become a broker themselves.
Once you have found a broker to work under, you can begin your career as a real estate agent!
For First-Time License Renewal: Complete Post-Licensing Course
Complete the required 98-hour post-licensing education in Texas in order to maintain and renew your Texas real estate license for the first time.
What Should You Do After You Get Your Texas Real Estate License?
1. Grow your network with other real estate agents
Becoming a real estate sales agent is a fantastic way to kickstart your career. By joining a reputable real estate agency, you can gain valuable experience, access resources, and benefit from mentorship from seasoned professionals.
Start networking with local real estate agencies to explore potential opportunities. Attend open houses and industry events to build relationships and learn from experienced agent.
Work closely with your agency’s broker and colleagues to develop your skills and build a strong client base.
Consider specializing in a niche market, such as luxury properties, commercial real estate, or residential sales, to differentiate yourself and target specific clients.
2. Pursue a Texas Broker Certification
If you are aspiring to take your real estate career to the next level and have the ambition to manage your own brokerage or team, pursuing a broker certification is a wise choice. Here’s how to proceed:
- Accumulate a few years of experience as a real estate salesperson to meet the prerequisites for broker certification.
- Enroll in a Texas-approved broker pre-licensing course, which typically involves 270 hours of coursework.
- Pass the Texas broker’s licensing exam.
- Apply for your broker license.
Consider specializing in a specific area, such as property management, real estate investment, or commercial brokerage to broaden your expertise and attract clients.
Ultimately, the decision between becoming a salesperson or pursuing broker certification depends on your career goals and aspirations. Both paths offer exciting opportunities in the dynamic world of real estate.
How long does It take to become a real estate agent in Texas?
On average, it takes between four to five months to get a Texas real estate license. This includes the time required to finish your Texas pre-licensing course, undergo the background check, take the licensing exam, and receive a license. However, this may vary from person to person.