If you’re looking to join the exciting world of real estate in Texas, you’ll need to obtain a state license first. To become a licensed real estate agent in Texas, you need to meet specific requirements as set by the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC).
Here’s a quick overview of the requirements to become a licensed real estate agent in Texas:
Age Requirement
You must be at least 18 years of age to become a licensed real estate agent in Texas.
Residency Requirement
There is no residency requirement to obtain a Texas real estate license. You can live anywhere in the United States or even outside the country and still apply for a Texas real estate license.
Educational Requirement
Before you can apply for a real estate license, you need to complete 180 hours of approved real estate education. This includes:
1. 60-hour Principles of Real Estate course
2. 30-hour Law of Agency course
3. 30-hour Law of Contracts course
4. 30-hour Promulgated Contracts Forms course
5. 30-hour Real Estate Finance course
You can take these courses in a traditional classroom setting or online through an approved provider.
Exam Requirement
Once you complete the required education, you need to pass the Texas real estate licensing exam. The exam has two parts:
1. National portion – which covers general real estate principles, such as contracts, property ownership, and agency laws.
2. State portion – which covers Texas-specific laws and regulations, such as property taxes, rights of redemption, and homestead laws.
You’ll need to pass both the national and state portion of the exam with a minimum score of 70% to pass. If you fail, you can retake the exam as many times as you need to pass, but you’ll need to pay the examination fee for each attempt.
Background Check Requirement
As part of the real estate license application process, you’ll need to undergo a criminal background check. Any felony conviction or misdemeanor related to fraud, dishonesty, or breach of trust may disqualify you from obtaining a Texas real estate license.
Payment of Fees
You’ll need to pay a non-refundable license application fee of $205 when you submit your application. Once your application is approved, you’ll need to pay a $10 fee for a background check and a $20 fee for the real estate recovery trust account.
To maintain your Texas real estate license, you’ll need to complete continuing education requirements every two years and pay a renewal fee.
Final Thoughts
If you’re interested in becoming a licensed real estate agent in Texas, make sure you meet all the requirements and take your real estate education seriously. With hard work and dedication, you can build a successful career in the exciting and dynamic world of real estate.