🏡 How to Become a Real Estate Agent in Texas: Step-by-Step Guide to Launching Your Career
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Introduction: 💼 Turning Big Dreams into Big Deals in the Lone Star State
Texas isn’t just big in size—it’s big on opportunity. With booming cities like Austin, Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio, the real estate market in Texas is hotter than a summer afternoon in July. ☀️
Whether you're drawn by the flexible lifestyle, the potential for six-figure earnings, or a passion for helping others find their dream home, becoming a real estate agent in Texas is an exciting and rewarding journey.
In this article, we’ll walk you through how to become a real estate agent in Texas, step by step. From education and exams to getting licensed and building your brand, we’ll cover everything you need to know to hit the ground running in the Texas property game.
how to become a real estate agent in texas
📚 Step 1: Meet the Basic Eligibility Requirements
Before you dive into classes or applications, make sure you meet the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) requirements:
✅ Be at least 18 years old
✅ Be a U.S. citizen or lawfully admitted alien
✅ Meet TREC's honesty, trustworthiness, and integrity standards
💡 Tip: If you have any criminal background or professional disciplinary history, you can submit a Fitness Determination form to TREC before applying.
🏫 Step 2: Complete the Required 180 Hours of Pre-Licensing Education
The state of Texas requires all aspiring agents to complete 180 hours of qualifying real estate education from a TREC-approved provider. The courses include:
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)
📍Where to Study?
Online schools like Kaplan, AceableAgent, or The CE Shop offer flexibility and state-approved content.
📌 Pro Tip: Choose a provider with strong exam prep tools to help you pass the licensing exam on the first try.
📝 Step 3: Submit Your Application to TREC
Once your education is complete, you’ll need to:
Create an account on the TREC website
Submit the Sales Agent License Application (Form ID: SAE)
Pay the fee: $185
💡 TREC will notify you once your application is accepted and will send details for your background check.
👮 Step 4: Get Fingerprinted and Pass a Background Check
Every applicant must submit fingerprints for a criminal background check.
Schedule your fingerprinting with IdentoGO, the official vendor
Cost: Around $38.25
Your results will be sent directly to TREC.
📘 Step 5: Schedule and Pass the Texas Real Estate Exam
The licensing exam is administered by Pearson VUE and includes:
National Portion (85 questions)
Texas State Portion (40 questions)
You need at least a 70% on both sections to pass.
💡 Exam Tips:
Take multiple practice exams
Study contract forms and state-specific laws
Use flashcards for terminology
🧠 Fun Fact: You can retake the exam up to three times before needing additional education.
🏢 Step 6: Find a Sponsoring Broker
You can’t activate your license without a licensed real estate broker to sponsor you.
What to Look For in a Broker:
Strong training and mentorship programs
Technology and marketing support
Competitive commission splits
Local market knowledge
Popular Texas brokers include:
Keller Williams
Coldwell Banker
RE/MAX
EXP Realty
🔄 Tip: Interview several brokers before choosing. This is your first big career decision—make it count.
🚀 Step 7: Activate Your License and Start Selling!
Once your sponsoring broker is in place, your license will be activated through the TREC system. You’re officially a licensed Texas real estate agent!
What’s Next?
Create your business plan
Build your personal brand (logo, website, business cards)
Leverage social media for lead generation
Start networking and attending open houses
📈 Successful agents often close their first deal within 90 days with the right hustle and mentorship.
🧠 Bonus Tips for New Texas Agents
Join your local REALTOR® association to access MLS and networking events
Invest in customer relationship management (CRM) tools
Never stop learning—consider niche certifications like SRS, ABR, or GRI
Stay current on Texas real estate laws and market trends
📊 Key Metrics to Track Early in Your Career
📞 Number of leads generated per week
💬 Conversion rate from leads to clients
📆 Number of showings and listings booked
💰 Gross commission income (GCI)
🤝 Client satisfaction and referral rates
💬 Final Thoughts: Your Texas Real Estate Career Starts Now
Becoming a real estate agent in Texas is not just a job—it’s a lifestyle and a long-term career path with unlimited potential. By following these steps and staying committed to continuous learning and ethical practice, you’ll be well on your way to making a name for yourself in the Lone Star State’s dynamic real estate market.
Whether you're dreaming of luxury listings in Dallas or starter homes in San Antonio, remember this: the journey to success starts with the decision to begin.
So, saddle up—it’s time to close your first deal! 🤠💼
how to become a real estate agent in texas
🙋 FAQ: Becoming a Texas Real Estate Agent
Q: How long does it take to become a real estate agent in Texas?
A: Typically 3 to 6 months, depending on your pace of completing education and passing the exam.
Q: Can I take the pre-licensing courses online?
A: Yes, many TREC-approved providers offer online options.
Q: What is the average income of a real estate agent in Texas?
A: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average is around $63,000, but top performers earn well into six figures.
Q: Do I need a college degree to become a real estate agent?
A: No. A high school diploma or equivalent is sufficient.
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