Education · 1 of 4
The path
The fastest licensed career on this site. Months, not years.
- 1
Finish high school and turn 18
Grade 12
Every state sets a minimum age of 18 or 19 and expects a high school diploma or equivalent.
- 2
Pre-license courses
Weeks to months
State-approved coursework in real estate principles, contracts, agency law and finance. Texas requires 180 classroom hours across six courses. Several states require far fewer.
- 3
Pass the license exam
One day
A state section and a national section, usually at a testing center. Fail three times in Texas and you must take more coursework before retesting.
- 4
Background check
Weeks
Fingerprints and a criminal history check through the state.
- 5
Find a sponsoring broker
Weeks
Your license is inactive until a licensed broker sponsors you. You cannot work on your own as a brand new agent in any state.