How Many Questions Are on the Real Estate Exam?
A comprehensive state-by-state breakdown of real estate exam length, format, time limits, and what to expect on test day.
🎯The Quick Answer
Most real estate licensing exams contain 100-150 questions, split between national and state-specific portions. The exact number varies by state, with total testing time typically ranging from 3-4 hours.
For example, California has 150 questions (salesperson exam), Texas has 125 questions, Florida has 100 questions, and New York has 75 questions. The exam is divided into two sections: a national portion covering general real estate principles and a state-specific portion covering local laws and regulations.
State-by-State Question Count
| State | National Portion | State Portion | Total Questions | Time Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | 100 | 50 | 150 | 3 hours 15 min |
| Texas | 85 | 40 | 125 | 4 hours |
| Florida | 80 | 20 | 100 | 3 hours 30 min |
| New York | 50 | 25 | 75 | 1 hour 30 min |
| Pennsylvania | 80 | 40 | 120 | 3 hours 30 min |
| Illinois | 80 | 40 | 120 | 2 hours 30 min |
| Ohio | 80 | 40 | 120 | 3 hours 45 min |
| Massachusetts | 80 | 40 | 120 | 3 hours 30 min |
| Michigan | 80 | 40 | 120 | 3 hours 30 min |
| Georgia | 80 | 40 | 120 | 3 hours 30 min |
Note: These numbers are for salesperson licenses. Broker exams typically have more questions and longer time limits. Always verify current requirements with your state's real estate commission, as these numbers may change.
Understanding Exam Structure
National Portion
The national portion typically accounts for 60-70% of the exam and covers general real estate principles that apply across all states. This section tests your knowledge of:
- Property ownership - Types of ownership, estates, deeds, and transfer of title
- Land use and regulations - Zoning, building codes, environmental restrictions
- Valuation and appraisal - Methods of valuation, market analysis, depreciation
- Real estate financing - Mortgages, loans, interest calculations, lending practices
- Contracts - Types of contracts, essential elements, breach and remedies
- Agency relationships - Duties, disclosures, types of representation
- Fair housing laws - Protected classes, prohibited practices, ADA compliance
- Federal regulations - RESPA, TILA, Equal Credit Opportunity Act
State-Specific Portion
The state portion typically accounts for 30-40% of the exam and focuses on laws, regulations, and practices unique to your state. This section covers:
- State licensing requirements - Education, renewal, continuing education
- State-specific real estate law - Local statutes, property law variations
- Commission regulations - Rules governing brokers and salespeople
- Local practices - Common forms, local customs, regional requirements
- State disclosure requirements - Property condition, lead paint, environmental
- Trust account regulations - Handling client funds, escrow requirements
- Disciplinary procedures - Violations, penalties, complaint process
Question Format and Types
Multiple Choice
95-100%
Nearly all questions are multiple choice with 4 answer options. Select the single best answer from the choices provided.
Time Per Question
90-120
seconds average per question. This includes time for reading, thinking, and selecting your answer.
Common Question Types
1. Definitional Questions (30-40%)
Test your knowledge of real estate terms and concepts.
Example: "What is the term for a written instrument that conveys an interest in real property?"
2. Situational Questions (30-40%)
Present a scenario and ask you to apply your knowledge.
Example: "A buyer has a $200,000 mortgage at 6% interest. What is the first month's interest payment?"
3. Mathematical Questions (10-15%)
Require calculations for commissions, interest, prorations, or area.
Example: "A property sold for $350,000 with a 6% commission split equally between brokers. What does each broker receive?"
4. Law and Regulation Questions (15-25%)
Test your understanding of legal requirements and ethical practices.
Example: "Under the Fair Housing Act, which of the following is a protected class?"
Passing Score Requirements
70%
Minimum Passing Score
Most common requirement
75%
Higher Requirement
Some states (e.g., Texas, CA)
Both
Sections Must Pass
National AND state portions
Important: Most states require you to pass both the national and state portions separately. You can't compensate for a low score on one section with a high score on the other.
For example, if your state requires 70% on each section, scoring 85% on the national portion and 65% on the state portion would result in a failing grade, even though your overall percentage might be above 70%.
Time Management Strategy
Recommended Time Allocation
First Pass (60-70% of time)
Answer all questions you know confidently. Skip difficult ones to return to later.
Second Pass (20-30% of time)
Return to flagged questions. Eliminate wrong answers and make educated guesses.
Review (10% of time)
Double-check calculations, ensure all questions are answered, review flagged items.
⏰ Pro Tip:
Calculate your "checkpoint times" before the exam. For example, if you have 150 questions in 195 minutes, you should be through question 50 by minute 65, question 100 by minute 130, etc. This helps you pace yourself without rushing.
How to Prepare for the Number of Questions
📝Take Full-Length Practice Exams
The best way to prepare for the exam's length is to take full-length practice tests under timed conditions. This builds your stamina and helps you experience the mental fatigue that comes with 3+ hours of testing.
- Take at least 3-5 full-length practice exams before test day
- Simulate real testing conditions (quiet environment, timed, no breaks)
- Review all incorrect answers to understand your weak areas
- Track your progress and focus study time on low-scoring topics
🎯Focus on High-Value Topics
Not all topics carry equal weight. Prioritize your study time based on how many questions each topic represents on the actual exam.
High-Weight Topics (Study These First):
- • Contracts and Agency (20-25% of questions)
- • Real Estate Law and Regulations (15-20%)
- • Finance and Mortgages (15-20%)
- • Property Ownership and Transfer (10-15%)
🧮Master the Math
While math questions are only 10-15% of the exam, they're often the ones students fear most. These questions have definitive right answers—master the formulas and you have free points.
- Commission calculations
- Interest calculations (monthly and annual)
- Proration (taxes, rent, HOA fees)
- Area and volume measurements
- Percentage problems (loan-to-value, down payments)
💪Build Testing Endurance
A 3-4 hour exam requires mental stamina. In the weeks before your exam, practice maintaining focus for extended periods. Take practice tests without breaks, stay well-hydrated, and get adequate sleep in the days leading up to your test.
What to Expect on Test Day
📋 Check-In Process
Arrive 30 minutes early. Bring two forms of ID (one with photo). Personal items go in a locker—you'll only have scratch paper and a calculator (if allowed).
💻 Computer-Based Testing
Most exams are computer-based. You'll have a tutorial before starting. Questions appear one at a time, and you can flag questions to review later.
⏸️ Breaks
Some testing centers allow optional breaks between sections, but the clock keeps running. Plan bathroom breaks strategically, or skip them to finish faster.
✅ Immediate Results
You'll typically receive your pass/fail result immediately after completing the exam. Official score reports follow within a few business days.
Ready to Tackle Your Real Estate Exam?
Now that you know how many questions to expect, it's time to start practicing. Use our state-specific practice tests to prepare for the exact format and content you'll see on test day.