This post was last modified on August 26, 2024.
Preparing for the California real estate exam? It’s a significant milestone for anyone entering the real estate industry. But what if you don’t succeed on your first attempt? Here’s what you should consider for your next steps.
Understanding the Examination Results
- Electronic Examination Results: Choosing an electronic examination means you’ll get your results immediately after finishing. Additional correspondence usually follows within five business days. If you complete the combo exam/real estate license application, you’ll receive your test results and real estate license together.
- Passing Criteria:
- Salespersons Exam (for “Real Estate Agents”): Answer at least 70% of the questions correctly.
- Brokers Exam (for Agency Owners): Answer at least 75% of the questions correctly.
- Feedback for Unsuccessful Candidates: If you don’t pass, you’ll receive your score and the percentage of questions answered correctly in each subject area. Keep in mind that your overall score isn’t simply an average of these percentages.
The Process of Re-taking the Examination
If you don’t pass the California real estate exam on your first try, it’s not the end of the road! Here’s how you can prepare to retake the test:
- Wait for the Official Notification: You need to wait for the official notification of your exam results before reapplying.
- Risks of Premature Application:
- Your exam record could be flagged.
- Test results might be withheld.
- You could incur additional fees.
- Your new test date might be changed, delayed, or even canceled.
- How to Re-apply: Use the eLicensing online system for a quicker process or your Examination Result Notice (RE 418A for Salespersons or RE 418B for Brokers).
Lost Your Examination Result Notice? Here’s What to Do
Misplacing your Examination Result Notice can be frustrating, but there’s a solution:
- Use the Salesperson Examination Change Application RE 415A or the Broker Examination Change Application RE 415B.
- Important: Only submit these forms after the examination results have been released to avoid forfeiting your fee.
How Many Times Can You Re-take the Exam?
The good news is, there’s no limit to how many times you can retake the exam, as long as it’s within two years of your original application date. However, if you wish to take it after this period, you’ll need to:
- Submit a new application.
- Meet all statutory requirements.
- Pay the appropriate fee which is $60 in California.
Duration to Wait Before Re-taking the Exam
The timing is key. Here’s what you should know about the waiting period:
- Computer-based Exam: You’ll receive your results before leaving the test center, with additional correspondence typically arriving within five days.
- Pen-and-Paper Exam: Expect your results about a week later by mail.
The Bottom Line
While not passing the California real estate exam can be disappointing, it’s essential to remember that many successful agents failed on their first try. With dedication, preparation, and the right resources, you can succeed! If you’re seeking a thorough real estate license course to increase your chances, we’re here to support you.
Missing the mark on the California real estate exam can be disappointing, but keep in mind that many accomplished agents didn’t pass on their first try. With dedication, preparation, and the right resources, you can succeed! If you need a comprehensive real estate license course to boost your chances, we’re here to help.
