Your Guide to a Texas Real Estate License
Navigating the path to becoming a real estate agent in Texas can seem complex. This interactive guide breaks down the process into clear, manageable steps, from initial requirements to your first renewal.
The Path to Your License
Follow these steps to successfully obtain your Texas real estate license. Click on each step to reveal more detailed information and requirements.
1. Meet Eligibility Requirements
▼2. Complete Pre-License Education
▼3. File Your Application
▼4. Fingerprinting & Background Check
▼5. Pass the Licensing Exam
▼6. Find a Sponsoring Broker
▼Estimated Cost Breakdown
Getting your license involves several fees. While education costs can vary, the state fees are fixed. This chart provides an estimated breakdown of the primary expenses, which typically range from $800 to $1,500 in total.
Fee Details
- Pre-License Education $500 - $1,000
- Application Fee $185
- Fingerprinting Fee $40
- Exam Fee $43
- Initial License Fee $205
- Estimated Total $973 - $1,473
Projected Timeline
The time it takes to get your license can vary greatly depending on how quickly you complete your education and the processing times at TREC. On average, you can expect the process to take between 2 to 5 months.
TREC and Continuing Education
What is TREC?
The Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) is the state agency that governs real estate brokers and sales agents. TREC's primary purpose is to protect the public through regulation, licensing, and education of real estate professionals. They establish the rules and requirements for getting and maintaining a license, and they investigate complaints against license holders.
Continuing Education (CE)
Your education doesn't stop once you get your license. To renew your license every two years, you must complete Continuing Education (CE) courses.
First Renewal: You must complete 90 hours of Sales Agent Apprentice Education (SAE) plus 8 hours of Legal Update I & II, totaling 98 hours.
Subsequent Renewals: You must complete 18 hours of CE, which includes 8 hours of Legal Update I & II and 10 hours of elective courses.