Frequently Asked Questions

What Must I Know About Real Estate License Requirements in Tennessee?

The Commission requires that I:

  1. Be 18 years or older to submit a licensing application after I pass the official licensing exams. The online courses (pre-licensing education and exam preparation) and the official licensing exams may be taken and completed prior to turning 18.
  2. Submit fingerprints for a background check.
  3. Provide proof of a high school diploma or equivalent certification.
  4. Provide proof of completion of 60 credit hours of education before sitting for the PSI exam and have completed the 30-hour New Affiliates course before applying for a license. Kaplan will provide you with completion certificates.
  5. Successfully pass the state and national portions of the real estate exam. Both exams must be taken and passed within 6 months of each other and submitted to the Commission.

Why Should I Become a Real Estate Agent?

  • Real estate agents are often their own boss.
    • Agents are typically independent contractors and control their own schedule, but they are also responsible for generating leads and networking to earn commissions from sales.
  • Real estate agents can make a good income.
    • Income isn’t limited by an hourly wage or salary and is affected by the time that is invested. The first sale could take a couple of months or more before income is recognized, so it is best to have some savings to start. Real estate agents earn a percentage of a commission on the sale of real estate property.
  • Real estate agents work flexible schedules.
    • Agents do not work typical business hours, and a schedule can be set that works for the individual; however, individuals need to be flexible to adjust to clients’ needs, which tend to be when others are not working.
  • Real estate agents help people with their largest transactions.
    • Agents get satisfaction from helping their clients find their perfect home or sell their property. It can be a stressful time for clients, so agents need to be confident and understanding.

How do I apply for the program?

Please complete this application.

How many participants can participate in the program?

TREC has allocated $222,500.00 for this initiative. Funding is available for each participant to take all three courses (including the course that is not required) and will allow for 150 students to complete the program. There may be variables that will allow for more high school students to take the required professional education to obtain a real estate license, such as a student not completing training or students not needing to take the exam preparation course.

What is the Tennessee Real Estate Commission?

Formed in 1951, the Commission licenses, registers and regulates real estate brokers and affiliate brokers, real estate firms, rental location agents, time-share salespersons and developments, vacation clubs and vacation lodging services. The Commission also enacts rules addressing professional conduct and standards of practice.