How Challenging Is the Real Estate Exam? Pass Rates, Online Options, and Comparing NMLS vs. Real Estate

By Sophia MartinezLast Updated May 8, 2025

Can You Take the Real Estate Exam Online?

The ability to take your real estate licensing exam online depends on your state’s regulations and the type of license you are seeking. In Florida, for example, the state mandates that the real estate licensing exam must be taken in person at an approved testing center. While the pre-licensing education can be completed online through accredited schools, the final exam itself is generally proctored in a secure, designated location to ensure compliance with regulatory standards. Some states have introduced remote proctoring on a limited basis, especially following the COVID-19 pandemic, but as of the most recent updates, Florida requires in-person testing for the official licensing exam. It’s important to verify current requirements by visiting your state’s official real estate commission or department of business and professional regulation website.

How to Find Verified Exam Locations and Requirements

To confirm if your state allows online exam proctoring or requires in-person testing, you can:

Visit your state’s official real estate licensing board website (for Florida, this is the Department of Business and Professional Regulation).
Contact approved real estate schools, as they are required to stay up-to-date on testing regulations and can provide guidance.
Review the candidate handbooks provided by official testing vendors.

For Florida, all licensing exam scheduling and testing information is handled through the state-sanctioned vendor, Pearson VUE. You can locate nearby test centers and their protocols by searching for ‘Florida Real Estate Exam Pearson VUE’.

How Long Does It Take to Finish Real Estate School Online?

The time required to complete online real estate education varies widely depending on your state’s licensing requirements, your schedule, and the pace you set. In Florida, you must complete a 63-hour pre-licensing course for the sales associate license. Many online schools offer self-paced options, allowing you to finish as quickly or as slowly as you need. Some accelerated programs claim you can complete the coursework in as little as one week if you devote significant time each day, while most students take several weeks to a few months depending on their other commitments [1] .

Online real estate schools typically provide access to course materials for 6 to 12 months, so you can revisit lessons and prepare for the exam at your own pace. When choosing a school, look for features such as live instructor support, practice exams, and comprehensive study guides to help you succeed.

Step-by-Step Guidance for Completing Online Real Estate School

Enroll in a state-approved online real estate school that fits your schedule and learning style.
Set a realistic study schedule, breaking the 63-hour requirement (or your state’s equivalent) into manageable sessions.
Complete all units, quizzes, and any required practice exams as stipulated by your course provider.
Request your completion certificate, which is required to apply for the state licensing exam.

Some schools, such as Gold Coast Schools in Florida, offer options for both accelerated and self-paced learning to fit a variety of needs [1] .

Is the Florida Real Estate Exam Hard?

The Florida real estate exam is widely regarded as challenging, with a pass rate that typically ranges between 40% and 60% for first-time test takers [1] . According to official statistics, the passing score is 75%, and the exam covers a range of complex topics including real estate law, finance, contracts, and ethics [3] . In 2021, for instance, the pass rate for the Sales Associate exam was approximately 42% [3] .

Several factors contribute to the difficulty:

The breadth and depth of material covered, including legal concepts and mathematical calculations.
The requirement to memorize specific statutes and regulations.
Time constraints, as the exam is timed and typically consists of 100 multiple-choice questions.

Despite these challenges, many candidates succeed by investing in high-quality exam prep courses, practicing with sample questions, and reviewing core concepts regularly [1] . Schools with strong reputations often offer exam review sessions and additional support for students who need help mastering the material.

How Hard Is It to Pass the Real Estate Exam?

Passing the real estate exam is considered challenging in Florida and in many other states. Statewide statistics indicate that less than half of all candidates pass on their first attempt [3] . This is reflected in the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation’s published results, which reported a 42% pass rate for Sales Associate candidates in 2021 [3] .

However, pass rates can vary based on the education provider. Some online schools report significantly higher pass rates among their students; for example, AceableAgent notes a 95% pass rate among its Florida enrollees, much higher than the state average [4] . This suggests that well-structured online programs, with strong instructional support and practice resources, can dramatically improve your odds of passing.

Practical Tips for Success

Focus on understanding key legal terms and concepts, as these form the bulk of the exam questions.
Take multiple practice exams under timed conditions to simulate the real test environment.
Consider joining study groups or online forums to discuss difficult topics and get clarification.
Utilize all review materials provided by your online school, including flashcards and exam prep modules.

Remember, failing the exam is not the end of the journey. Candidates are permitted to retake the test, usually after a waiting period and payment of a retest fee. Most successful agents take the time to review their weak areas before attempting the exam again.

Is the NMLS Test Harder Than the Real Estate Exam?

The Nationwide Multistate Licensing System (NMLS) test, required for mortgage loan originators, is often compared to the real estate licensing exam. Both tests are considered challenging, but they differ in content and focus. The NMLS test is noted for its emphasis on federal mortgage regulations, ethics, and complex loan calculations, with a national pass rate that typically ranges from 55% to 60%-comparable to the Florida real estate exam’s pass rates [1] .

Candidates with strong backgrounds in finance or compliance may find the NMLS test manageable, while those with a preference for property law and transactions may prefer the real estate exam. Anecdotally, many test-takers report that the NMLS test can feel more technical and math-intensive than the real estate exam, but the perceived difficulty will depend on your strengths and background. Both exams require significant preparation, familiarity with regulations, and the ability to apply concepts in practical scenarios.

Accessing NMLS Test Prep Resources

For guidance in preparing for the NMLS test, visit the official Nationwide Multistate Licensing System & Registry (NMLS) Resource Center by searching for ‘NMLS Resource Center’. Here, you can find candidate handbooks, sample questions, and a list of approved test prep providers. Many real estate schools also offer NMLS prep courses for those seeking dual licensure.

Accessing Real Estate Education and Exam Opportunities

To get started on your real estate or mortgage education journey, follow these steps:

Determine which license you need: real estate salesperson, broker, or mortgage loan originator.
Research your state’s requirements by visiting the official real estate commission or licensing board website.
Choose a state-approved online school that fits your schedule and learning preferences. Look for recent reviews, high pass rates, and comprehensive support resources.
Complete required pre-licensing education and obtain your course completion certificate.
Register for the state exam through the official testing vendor (for Florida, search for ‘Pearson VUE Florida Real Estate Exam’).
Invest time in exam prep using practice tests and review guides.
If pursuing an NMLS license, access official resources by searching for ‘NMLS Resource Center’ and review the SAFE MLO Test Handbook for specific requirements.

If you have questions about the process, you can contact your chosen online school directly or reach out to your state’s real estate licensing board for personalized guidance. Most schools offer live chat, phone, and email support for prospective students.

Summary and Key Takeaways

The path to a real estate or mortgage license can be demanding, but with the right preparation and resources, success is within reach. While Florida requires in-person testing for the real estate licensing exam, online education options offer flexibility and support. Pass rates for the Florida exam hover around 40-60%, but top-performing online schools frequently report much higher success rates for their students. Both the Florida real estate exam and the NMLS test are challenging, each with its unique focus, and require dedicated study and practice. By choosing the right online program, understanding your state’s requirements, and leveraging official resources, you can maximize your chances of passing-whether your goal is to become a real estate agent, broker, or mortgage loan originator.