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Real Estate Agent License Requirements in Texas

Issued by: Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC)Verified: April 2026
License Required
Required
Application Fee
$206
Renewal
2 years
Exam Required
Yes
Processing Time
Up to 1 year from application date to meet all requirements
Bond Required
No

Requirements

  1. 1Must be 18 years or older and a U.S. citizen or lawfully admitted alien
  2. 2Complete 180 classroom hours of qualifying real estate courses (6 courses x 30 hours each)
  3. 3Submit fingerprints for DPS background check ($37 fingerprint fee)
  4. 4Submit application and fee ($206 total) via REALM Portal
  5. 5Pass the Sales Agent licensing exam administered by PearsonVUE ($43 exam fee)
  6. 6Obtain sponsorship from an active Texas-licensed broker to activate license

How to Apply

To become a real estate sales agent in Texas, applicants must complete 180 hours of qualifying education, pass a background check and fingerprinting with DPS, pass the sales agent exam through PearsonVUE, and be sponsored by a licensed Texas broker. The total original application fee is $206.
Apply at Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC)

Costs

Application Fee
$206
Renewal Fee
$110
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get a real estate license in Texas?
Complete 180 hours of qualifying education, pass a background check, pass the PearsonVUE exam, and submit your application ($206) to TREC. You then need sponsorship from a licensed broker.
What is the application fee for a Texas real estate sales agent license?
The total original application fee is $206, which includes the $150 base fee, $6 Texas Online fee, $40 Texas A&M Research Center fee, and $10 Real Estate Recovery fee.
How long does it take to get a real estate license in Texas?
You have up to one year from your application date to meet all requirements. The process typically takes several months depending on how quickly you complete education and pass the exam.
Who regulates real estate agents in Texas?
The Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) regulates real estate sales agents and brokers in Texas.
How often do I need to renew my Texas real estate license?
Texas real estate sales agent licenses renew every 2 years. The renewal fee is $110.

Related pages

Real Estate Agent in other states
Other licenses in Texas
Data sourced from official state government portal. Last verified April 2026.
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