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Becoming a real estate broker in Houston, Texas, involves meeting specific requirements set by the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC). Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:​

1. Meet Basic Eligibility Criteria:

   • Be at least 18 years old.​

   • Be a U.S. citizen or lawfully admitted alien.​

   • Demonstrate honesty, trustworthiness, and integrity. If you have concerns about meeting this criterion, consider requesting a fitness determination from TREC before applying. 

2. Accumulate Required Experience:

   • Have at least four years of active experience as a licensed real estate sales agent or broker within the five years preceding your application. This experience must total 360 points, as detailed in TREC’s Qualifying Experience Report for a Broker License. ​

3. Complete Educational Requirements:

   • Complete 270 classroom hours of qualifying real estate courses, including:​

     • Principles of Real Estate I (30 hours)

     • Principles of Real Estate II (30 hours)

     • Law of Agency (30 hours)

     • Law of Contracts (30 hours)

     • Promulgated Contract Forms (30 hours)

     • Real Estate Finance (30 hours)

     • Real Estate Brokerage (30 hours)—this course must be completed within two years prior to your application date.

   • Additionally, complete 630 classroom hours in related qualifying courses or approved continuing education (CE) courses. Holding a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited institution satisfies all related education requirements. ​

4. Submit Your Application:

   • Apply online through TREC’s Online Services or by mail. Ensure all required documents and fees are included. ​

5. Undergo fingerprinting and a background check.

   • Schedule a fingerprinting appointment with the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) for a background check. Note that fingerprints on file with other agencies are not accepted. A license will not be issued without a passed background check. ​

6. Pass the Broker Licensing Exam:

   • Once your application is approved, TREC will provide instructions to schedule your exam with PearsonVUE, the testing service. The exam covers both national and state-specific real estate topics. If you fail the exam three times, additional education will be required before retaking it. ​ 

7. Obtain sponsorship (if applicable):

   • If you plan to work under another broker, secure sponsorship from an active Texas-licensed broker. You can complete a sponsorship request through TREC’s online services. Once the broker accepts your request, your active license will be issued. ​

By fulfilling these steps, you can obtain your real estate broker license in Houston, Texas. For detailed information and updates, refer to TREC’s official website.