ALL ABOUT CALIFORNIA REAL ESTATE EXAM
The California real estate exam is required to become a licensed real estate agent in the state of California. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about the California real estate exam including exam format, topics covered, passing score requirements and how to prepare for the exam.
Exam Format
The California real estate exam consists of two sections – the California real estate principles exam and the California real estate practice exam. Both sections are administered as computer-based tests at approved Pearson VUE test centers.
The principles exam consists of 80 multiple choice questions testing your knowledge of real estate principles as well as laws. You have 90 minutes to complete the exam. The practice exam also consists of 80 multiple choice questions testing your knowledge of real estate practices and 80 minutes is given to complete it. Both sections must be passed within 6 months to become licensed.
Topics Covered
The principles exam covers topics like types of properties, contracts, financing, valuation, taxes and regulations.
Some key topics included are:
- Types of properties – Residential, commercial, raw land etc.
- Property ownership – Estates, interests, co-ownership
- Contracts – Essential elements, types of contracts
- Financing – Mortgages, liens, foreclosure
- Valuation – Appraisal methods, comparable properties
- Taxes – Property taxes, special assessments
- Land use regulations – Zoning, general plans, CC&Rs
The practice exam covers topics related to the day-to-day operations of an agent like listing and selling process, disclosures, taxes, financing and escrow.
Some important topics are:
- Listing presentations and contracts
- Buyer representations and services
- Property disclosures
- Escrow and title insurance
- Tax considerations for buyers and sellers
- Financing residential real estate transactions
Passing Score Requirements
To pass each section of the California real estate exam, you need to score at least 70% or 56 questions correct out of the 80 questions. There is no penalty for wrong answers. You will get your exam results immediately after completing each section.
If you fail a section, you must wait 7 full days before retaking it. There is no limit on the number of times you can retake a failed section. Both sections must be passed within 6 months to become licensed. Your exam scores are valid for 1 year from the date of passing.
Preparing for the Exam
Here are some effective ways to prepare for the California real estate exam:
- Study the California Real Estate Principles and California Real Estate Practice books authored by Dearborn. These are the official exam prep books.
- Take an exam prep course either online or in-person from Kaplan or Real Estate Express. Their materials are designed around the exam content outline.
- Use exam prep apps like Real Estate Express or Pocket Prep to study on the go and take practice tests.
- Review real estate terms, concepts, laws and regulations thoroughly with flashcards.
- Make outlines of key topics and concepts to study. Teach these to someone to reinforce your learning.
- Take as many full-length practice exams as possible under timed conditions to simulate the real exam.
- Get good sleep, eat healthy and avoid cramming right before the exam date to be well-rested on exam day.
Conclusion
The California real estate exam is challenging but passing it is the first step to becoming a california real estate license. With adequate preparation using the right study materials and strategies, you can pass both sections of the exam on the first attempt. Always be sure to follow test-taking tips as well as strategies to maximize your performance on exam day. With dedication and hard work, you can achieve your goal of becoming a licensed real estate professional in California.
