Washington real estate exam: format, passing score, and what to expect
The Washington real estate exam is a required step to become a licensed real estate broker. It consists of 130 scored multiple-choice questions plus 5–10 unscored pretest questions, is administered by PSI, and tests your knowledge of national real estate principles and Washington-specific laws. This guide covers the exam format, scheduling process, test day expectations, and how to prepare with confidence.
- Washington real estate exam overview
- What is the passing score for the Washington real estate exam?
- How hard is the Washington real estate exam?
- Washington real estate exam math questions
- How to schedule the Washington real estate exam
- Where can you take the Washington real estate exam?
- Can you retake the real estate exam?
- What to expect on exam day
- Practice questions for the Washington real estate exam
- FAQs
Washington real estate exam overview
The Washington real estate exam is required to obtain a real estate broker license and is administered by PSI. You must complete your pre-licensing education before taking the exam.
| Exam Component | Details |
| Scored questions | 130 scored questions |
| National section | 100 questions |
| Washington section | 30 questions |
| Pretest questions | 5–10 unscored questions |
| Time limit | National: 150 minutes | State: 90 minutes |
| Passing score | Scaled score of 70 on each section |
| Question format | Multiple-choice |
| Administered by | PSI |
| Results | Immediate (pass/fail + score report) |
You must pass both the national and Washington-specific portions of the exam within two years of completing your pre-licensing education.
What is the passing score for the Washington real estate exam?
To pass the Washington real estate exam, you must achieve a scaled score of at least 70 on both the national and state sections.
Important scoring details:
- Sections are scored separately
- You must pass both portions
- Results are provided immediately after completion
- Numeric scores are only provided to failing candidates
- Failing candidates receive a diagnostic report showing strengths and weaknesses by topic area
PSI uses scaled scoring, which means your score is not reported as the exact percentage of questions answered correctly.
How hard is the Washington real estate exam?
The Washington real estate exam covers a broad range of national real estate concepts along with Washington-specific laws and regulations. Many candidates find the national portion more challenging because it focuses heavily on applying concepts and real-world scenarios.
What test-takers commonly experience:
- Questions focus on applying concepts, not just memorization
- Washington-specific laws and regulations require focused study
- Time management matters across a lengthy exam
- Scenario-based questions are common
What makes it challenging:
- Broad coverage across multiple topic areas
- Similar-looking answer choices
- State-specific agency and licensing rules
- Real estate math calculations
Common reasons people fail:
- Not taking enough practice exams
- Weak understanding of Washington-specific content
- Poor time management
- Focusing only on memorization instead of understanding concepts
Best ways to pass:
- Take multiple timed practice exams
- Focus heavily on the national section
- Review Washington agency laws carefully
- Use structured exam prep tools
- Review explanations for missed questions carefully
Washington real estate exam math questions
The Washington real estate exam includes math-related questions on the national portion.
Common math topics include:
- Commission calculations
- Prorations
- Property measurements
- Loan-to-value ratios
- Seller proceeds and closing costs
Physical calculators are allowed at PSI testing centers but are not permitted during remote online exams.
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.
How to schedule the Washington real estate exam
Before scheduling the Washington real estate exam, you must complete your pre-licensing education.
Steps:
- Complete 90 hours of Washington-approved pre-licensing education
- Wait for your education provider to submit your eligibility to PSI
- Receive your PSI eligibility email
- Create a PSI account
- Select the Washington Real Estate Broker exam
- Choose a testing location or remote online exam appointment
- Pay the $210 examination fee
- Receive your confirmation
You can also schedule by phone at (855) 746-8168.
Candidates should schedule at least 48 hours in advance. Walk-in exams are not available.
Your exam fee remains valid for one year from the date PSI receives payment.
Where can you take the Washington real estate exam?
You can take the Washington real estate exam at PSI testing centers throughout Washington and nationwide.
Washington testing locations include:
- Bellevue
- Bremerton
- Ellensburg
- Everett
- Kennewick
- Olympia
- Richland
- Spokane
- Tacoma
- Vancouver
- Yakima
PSI also offers additional nationwide testing centers.
Can you take the Washington real estate exam online?
Yes. Washington allows candidates to take the real estate exam online through PSI’s remote proctoring platform.
For online testing, you must:
- Complete PSI’s system compatibility check before exam day
- Use a computer with a webcam and reliable internet connection
- Test in a quiet, private room
- Remain visible to the remote proctor throughout the exam
Important remote testing rules include:
- Scratch paper is not permitted
- Physical calculators are not permitted
- Cell phones and electronic devices are prohibited
- Breaks are not allowed during remote exams
You must launch the exam within 15 minutes of your appointment time or your fee may be forfeited .
Can you retake the real estate exam?
Yes, you can retake the Washington real estate exam if you do not pass.
| Retake Detail | Information |
| Number of attempts | No set limit |
| Waiting period | No mandatory waiting period |
| Retake fee | $210 per attempt |
| Sections to retake | Only the failed section |
| Passing section validity | 6 months |
If you pass one portion of the exam, you must pass the remaining portion within six months or you will need to retake the entire exam.
Your overall exam eligibility remains valid for two years after completing your pre-licensing education.
After passing both portions, your exam results remain valid for one year while you complete the licensing process.
What to expect on exam day
You must arrive early and follow PSI testing procedures.
✓ Bring:
- One valid government-issued photo ID with signature
✗ Do not bring:
- Phones or electronic devices
- Notes or study materials
- Bags or personal belongings
- Smart watches
Testing Details:
- Arrive at least 30 minutes early
- Computer-based testing
- Scratch paper provided for in-person exams
- Immediate results after completion
Practice questions for the Washington real estate exam
Question 1
Which type of agency allows a broker to represent both buyer and seller in the same transaction with informed consent?
a) Single agency
b) Designated agency
c) Dual agency
d) Transaction brokerage
Answer: c
Question 2
A property sells for $300,000 with a 5% commission. What is the total commission?
a) $10,000
b) $12,500
c) $15,000
d) $18,000
Answer: c
Get ready to pass your 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 Washington 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 support 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.
Pass or Don’t Pay Guarantee
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
No. You do not need to be sponsored by a broker before taking the exam.
You only need to retake the section you failed, but both sections must be passed within six months of each other.
Yes. Washington allows candidates to take the exam online through PSI’s remote proctoring platform.
You must pass both portions of the exam within two years of completing your pre-licensing education.