The question of whether the official real estate licensing exam can be taken online has a nuanced answer, largely depending on the specific state issuing the license. While the pre-licensing courses and their associated exams are widely available online, the final, high-stakes licensing examination is treated differently. This article focuses exclusively on the official state licensing exam required to become a practicing real estate agent.
The Current State of Online Testing
The industry standard for the official real estate licensing exam remains the secure, in-person testing center. Major testing providers, such as Pearson VUE and PSI, maintain extensive networks of physical locations where candidates must appear to take the exam under strict supervision. This traditional method is preferred by most state regulatory bodies to maintain the integrity and security of the examination content.
A small but growing number of states have begun to offer a remote proctoring option. Remote proctoring involves taking the exam from a private location, such as a home or office, while being monitored by a live human proctor via webcam, microphone, and screen-sharing technology. This online option is the exception, not the rule, and is only available in jurisdictions that have approved the necessary security protocols.
Exam security is the primary concern driving the preference for in-person testing. When remote options are offered, they rely on sophisticated software that locks down the candidate’s computer, preventing access to unauthorized applications or external websites. This technology, combined with live human monitoring, attempts to replicate the controlled environment of a physical testing center.
Requirements for Remote Real Estate Exams
Candidates who are eligible for a remote exam must meet stringent technical and environmental prerequisites to ensure a secure testing session.
Technical Requirements
A stable, high-speed internet connection is mandatory, with providers often recommending a minimum of 6 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload speed, preferably using a wired connection. The candidate must use a personal computer with a compatible operating system, such as Windows 10 or macOS 13 or higher, and must have a working webcam and microphone. The testing software, such as Pearson VUE’s OnVUE or PSI’s platform, must be installed and will lock down the computer, preventing the use of multiple monitors, virtual machines, or unauthorized applications.
Environmental and Behavioral Rules
Environmentally, the candidate must be in a private, quiet room with no interruptions, and no one else is permitted to enter the space during the exam. The desk must be completely clear of all materials, including notes, books, and scratch paper, as most remote exams prohibit their use.
During the check-in process, the proctor will require the candidate to present a government-issued photo ID and perform a complete 360-degree camera scan of the room and desk area. Strict behavioral rules are enforced throughout the exam, including prohibitions against talking aloud, mumbling, or looking away from the screen for extended periods. Failure to comply with any of these rules can result in the immediate termination of the exam and forfeiture of the exam fee.
State-Specific Rules and Verification
Real estate licensing is governed entirely at the state level, meaning the availability of an online exam option is highly variable and subject to change. No single national rule dictates the exam format, making it necessary for every candidate to verify the requirements for the specific state in which they seek licensure. The state’s Real Estate Commission or Licensing Board is the ultimate authority on approved examination methods.
The most reliable source of information is the official Candidate Handbook or Exam Scheduling Guide, published by the state’s contracted testing vendor (e.g., PSI or Pearson VUE). This document details the exact format, location options, and security rules for the current licensing period. Candidates must navigate directly to their state’s official commission website and follow the links to the examination provider to find the most current handbook. Relying on general or outdated sources can lead to significant delays or the loss of an exam registration fee.