How to Get Your Real Estate License in Texas: A Step-by-Step Guide
Are you considering a career in real estate in Texas? Getting your real estate license is the first step toward entering this exciting industry. Texas is a thriving market, and becoming a licensed real estate agent opens the door to numerous opportunities. In this article, we’ll walk you through the necessary steps to obtain your Texas real estate license.
Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements
Before starting the licensing process, ensure you meet the basic qualifications:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Be a U.S. citizen or lawful resident.
- Meet TREC’s (Texas Real Estate Commission) honesty, trustworthiness, and integrity standards. You’ll need to undergo a background check, so it’s essential to disclose any criminal history upfront.
Step 2: Complete the Required Education
Texas requires aspiring real estate agents to complete 180 hours of pre-licensing education. These hours are divided into six mandatory 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)
These courses can be taken online or in-person through an accredited provider. Schools such as Champions School of Real Estate offer various formats to suit your learning style.
Step 3: Submit Your License Application
Once you’ve completed the educational requirements, the next step is to submit an application to TREC. You can complete the process online at the TREC website. The application fee is approximately $185. At this point, TREC will also initiate a background check, including fingerprinting.
Step 4: Schedule and Pass the Licensing Exam
After TREC approves your application, you’ll receive instructions on how to schedule your licensing exam. The Texas real estate licensing exam consists of two parts: a national section and a state section. The national portion covers general real estate knowledge, while the state portion focuses on Texas-specific laws and practices.
You must pass both parts of the exam with a minimum score of 70%. Be sure to use study aids and practice exams to prepare thoroughly.
Step 5: Find a Sponsoring Broker
Before you can practice real estate in Texas, you must be sponsored by a licensed real estate broker. Your sponsoring broker will guide you through your early career and provide the necessary mentorship and support. Make sure to choose a broker who aligns with your professional goals and provides the training and resources you need to succeed.
We’re thrilled to introduce you to EPIQUE Realty and all the amazing opportunities it has to offer. If you’re interested in discovering the full range of benefits that come with joining us, feel free to check out our webinar here: EPIQUE Realty Webinar.
Step 6: Activate Your License
Once you pass the exam and find a sponsoring broker, you’re ready to activate your real estate license! You can do this by submitting the required documentation through the TREC website. Once activated, you can start working as a real estate agent in Texas.
We’re thrilled to introduce you to EPIQUE Realty and all the amazing opportunities it has to offer. If you’re interested in discovering the full range of benefits that come with joining us, feel free to check out our webinar here: EPIQUE Realty Webinar.
Additional Tips and Resources
- Continuing Education: After obtaining your license, you will need to complete additional courses, such as Sales Agent Apprentice Education (SAE), within your first two years.
- Stay Updated: Keep track of any changes in licensing requirements or real estate regulations by regularly visiting TREC’s website.
By following these steps and investing in the right education, you’ll be well on your way to launching a successful career in Texas real estate!
For more information, check out the detailed requirements on TREC or explore education options at Champions School of Real Estate.