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What Is the Cost of a Real Estate License in Texas?

Written by Kacie Goff

In previous blogs, we’ve outlined the steps required to get your Texas real estate license and explored how long the process should take. But that might leave you with one important question: How much does a real estate license cost in Texas? This guide will help you get a good idea of how much you’ll pay to get your Texas real estate license — including completing pre-license courses and paying the relevant Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) fees. Here’s a quick rundown of the cost ranges for a real estate license in Texas.  

The Cost of a Texas Real Estate License

Unfortunately, there isn’t just one price to consider when getting your license. Many steps throughout the process have a cost, like education courses or state fees. In most cases, all of these costs come out of your own pocket. But since part of the application process involves finding a broker to sponsor you, your brokerage may be willing to help with these expenses. Now, let’s look at each step and help you plan your budget.

Pre-license Courses: $360 to $1,000+

Part of TREC’s license application requirement is to complete 180 hours of TREC-approved pre-license education. Fortunately, you can complete these education hours online, making the experience convenient and less costly. In fact, you can find one of the most affordable online Texas real estate pre-license education programs right here.  

Application Fees: $200+

After finishing your pre-license education, you must complete the Inactive Real Estate Sales Agent License (Form ID: ISL-9) application online or fill out a paper copy. The current fee for a two-year license application, which includes fingerprinting and a background check, is about $220. If you have a history of criminal offenses, unpaid judgments, disciplinary action, or unlicensed activity, TREC recommends including a Fitness Determination with your application. If necessary, this additional step adds about $50 to the application cost.

Exam Fees: $40

Before becoming licensed, students must pass the Texas Real Estate Sales Agent licensing exam. TREC uses PearsonVUE, a testing service company, to administer the exam. You can expect to pay an exam fee of about $40 for each attempt.

Total Cost of Your Real Estate License

Now, let’s look at an estimated price range you can expect when totaling the costs:

Other Costs of Becoming a Real Estate Agent in Texas

While the above should cover the cost of getting a real estate license in Texas, there are other real estate license fees and expenses that you’ll encounter during your new career. For example, every two years, you’ll need to renew your license. That process includes taking continuing education (this usually costs less than $100) and paying TREC’s renewal fee. 

Is a Texas Real Estate License Worth the Cost?

Clearly, the cost of becoming a real estate agent can add up. But it comes down to balancing how much it costs to get your license against what you can earn with a real estate career.

According to the latest U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data, becoming a real estate agent in Texas can be a very rewarding career choice. The average annual salary for Texas real estate agents is $77,320, which is 16% higher than the national average. Texas also has the second highest employment rate for real estate agents, meaning there’s plenty of opportunity for you to enter this job market! 

Since your potential yearly salary is much higher than the cost of becoming licensed, we think becoming a real estate agent is definitely worth it! If you’re ready to start your real estate career, we can help! 

Visit the links below to view our online pre-license, exam prep, and continuing education course options: