Exam Structure
National Portion vs State Portion: Real Estate Exam Structure
Most state real estate exams have two parts: a national portion (broad real estate concepts that apply everywhere) and a state portion (your state's specific laws and regulations). Some states score them separately; others combine them into a single overall score. Understanding the difference matters for study planning.
What's on Each Portion
National Portion
Broad concepts that apply in every state: property ownership, contracts, agency, finance, valuation, fair housing, settlement procedures, and real estate math. Typically 70–100 questions.
State Portion
Your state's specific real estate license law, agency disclosure rules, mandatory disclosures, trust account requirements, and state-specific concepts. Typically 30–50 questions.
Why Most Candidates Underestimate the State Portion
Generic national prep books and online courses focus heavily on national content because it sells across all states. State content is left for state-specific supplements that many candidates skip or skim.
But state portions can account for 30–50% of total exam questions, with their own passing thresholds in many states. A candidate who's strong on national but weak on state still fails.
Scoring Patterns
Combined score (FL, CA, NY, GA, AZ): single overall percentage required (70–75%)
Separate portions, same threshold (TX, CO, OK): must pass each portion at the same percentage
Separate portions, different thresholds (NC): different passing percentages for national (71%) and state (75%)
Failure on one portion only: most states allow single-portion retake at reduced fee
Don't Skip State Content
The diagnostic includes both national and state-style questions to show your real readiness — not just the easier half.
Related Pages
Portion FAQ
If I fail one portion, do I retake the whole exam?
Most states allow single-portion retakes at reduced fees. You only retake the portion you failed.
Are the portions taken in one sitting?
Usually yes. Most states administer national and state content as one continuous exam, scored as separate sections.
Which portion is harder?
Depends on your prep. Most candidates find state harder because they over-study national content and underestimate state-specific law.