This post was last modified on January 26, 2024.
Are you gearing up to take the California real estate exam? It’s the first big milestone for every person joining the real estate industry. But what happens if you don’t pass on your first try? We’ve got all the information you need to navigate the next steps.
Understanding the Examination Results
- Electronic Examination Results: If you opt for an electronic examination, you’ll receive your results immediately after completion. Plus, you can expect additional correspondence, typically mailed within five business days. If you fill out the combo exam/real estate license application you will receive your test results along with your real estate license.
- 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 be informed of your score and the percentage of questions you answered correctly in each subject area. However, remember that your overall score isn’t just an average of these percentages.
The Process of Re-taking the Examination
If you fail the California real estate exam the first time, it’s no big deal! Here’s what you need to know about re-taking the test:
- Wait for the Official Notification: Before you can re-apply, you must wait for the official notification of your exam results.
- 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 cap on the number of times you can re-take the exam as long as you do it within two years from 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
Timing is everything. Here’s what you need to know about the waiting period:
- Computer-based Exam: You’ll get 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. You can ace it with dedication, preparation, and the right resources! And if you’re looking for a comprehensive real estate license course to boost your chances, we’ve got you covered.
