Texas Real Estate Exam Guide 2026

Becoming a licensed Texas real estate agent opens doors to one of the nation's hottest housing markets. With cities like Houston, Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio experiencing rapid growth, Texas offers exceptional opportunities for new agents. But first, you must pass the Texas real estate salesperson exam.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need: exam format, state-specific requirements, testing centers, study strategies, and 1,200+ practice questions to help you pass on your first try.

Texas Real Estate Exam Format

The Texas Real Estate Salesperson Exam is administered by Pearson VUE and consists of:

• Total questions: 100 multiple-choice
• National portion: 85 questions (covers federal real estate principles)
• Texas portion: 15 questions (Texas-specific laws and practices)
• Time limit: 90 minutes
• Passing score: 70% (70 correct answers)
• Exam fee: $54

You must score at least 70% on BOTH the national and Texas portions to pass.

Texas Real Estate License Requirements

Pre-Licensing Education

Before you can take the exam, you must complete 180 hours of approved real estate courses:

• Principles of Real Estate I (30 hours)
• Principles of Real Estate II (30 hours)
• Law of Agency (30 hours)
• Law of Contracts (30 hours)
• Promulgated Contract Forms (30 hours)
• Real Estate Finance (30 hours)

Application Process

1. Complete 180 hours of coursework
2. Submit license application to Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC)
3. Pay $205 application fee
4. Pass fingerprint-based background check
5. Receive exam authorization from TREC
6. Schedule and pass exam at Pearson VUE
7. Find a sponsoring broker within one year

Texas-Specific Content You Must Know

The 15 Texas-specific questions focus on state laws and practices unique to Texas:

1. Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC)

• 9 members (6 brokers, 3 public members)
• Appointed by Governor, confirmed by Senate
• 6-year staggered terms
• Regulates all Texas real estate licensees

2. TREC-Promulgated Forms

Texas requires use of specific contract forms for most residential transactions. Key forms include:

• One to Four Family Residential Contract (Resale)
• New Home Contract (Incomplete Construction)
• Farm and Ranch Contract
• Unimproved Property Contract
• Residential Condominium Contract (Resale)

3. Texas Homestead Laws

Texas offers some of the nation's most generous homestead protections:

• Urban: Up to 10 acres (family) or 1 acre (single)
• Rural: Up to 200 acres (family) or 100 acres (single)
• Protection: Cannot be seized to pay most debts
• Taxes: Homestead exemption reduces property taxes

4. Texas Disclosure Requirements

• Seller's Disclosure Notice (required for most residential sales)
• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (pre-1978 homes)
• Information About Brokerage Services (IABS) form
• Residential Service Company (home warranty) disclosure

5. Texas License Law

• Licenses expire on December 31 of each year
• 18 hours of continuing education per renewal (Sales Agent on Active Status)
• Brokers may supervise up to 3 locations simultaneously
• All advertising must include broker's name

Major Texas Real Estate Markets

Houston Metropolitan Area

The largest city in Texas and 4th largest in the U.S. Houston's diverse economy (energy, healthcare, aerospace) creates constant housing demand. Average home price: $325,000. No zoning laws make Houston unique among major U.S. cities.

Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex

The fastest-growing metro area in the nation. Corporate relocations and job growth fuel strong real estate activity. Average home price: $375,000. DFW offers opportunities across all price ranges.

Austin

The state capital and tech hub. Austin's booming tech industry attracts high-earning buyers. Average home price: $550,000. Competitive market with fast sales.

San Antonio

Military presence and tourism drive this market. More affordable than Austin or Dallas. Average home price: $290,000. Growing rapidly with strong job market.

Study Strategy for Texas Exam

Week 1-2: National Content

Focus on federal real estate principles that make up 85% of the exam:

• Property ownership and transfer
• Contracts and agency
• Financing and mortgages
• Valuation and appraisal
• Real estate calculations

Week 3: Texas-Specific Content

Dedicate one full week to Texas laws:

• TREC rules and promulgated forms
• Texas homestead laws
• Texas disclosure requirements
• Texas license law and continuing education

Week 4: Practice Exams

Complete at least 3 full 100-question practice exams under timed conditions (90 minutes). Aim for 80%+ scores consistently.

Test Day Tips for Texas

• Arrive 30 minutes early with two forms of ID
• You'll receive a calculator and scratch paper at the testing center
• Read each question carefully—watch for "NOT," "EXCEPT," "LEAST"
• Answer all questions (no penalty for wrong answers)
• You'll receive results immediately after completing the exam
• If you pass, TREC will issue your license within 7-10 business days

What Happens After You Pass?

Once you pass the Texas real estate exam:

1. Find a sponsoring broker within one year
2. Submit sponsorship form to TREC
3. TREC processes your license (7-10 days)
4. You can start working as a licensed sales agent!

Your license expires December 31 each year and requires 18 hours of continuing education for renewal.