Testing Vendors
PSI vs Pearson VUE: Real Estate Exam Testing Vendors Compared
PSI Services and Pearson VUE are the two major testing vendors that administer state real estate licensing exams. Most states contract with one or the other (some have used both at different times). The vendor doesn't change the content — your state determines that — but it does change check-in procedures, software interface, and scheduling logistics.
PSI vs Pearson VUE at a Glance
PSI Services
Long-time real estate exam vendor. Used by states including FL (transitioned to Pearson VUE in some periods), NC, SC, TX (in some states), AL, IL, IN, KY, MN, MO, OH, PA, TN, WA, and many others. Operates 300+ U.S. testing centers.
Pearson VUE
Major credentialing vendor. Used in many states including AZ, NV, NJ, FL (in some periods). Offers OnVUE online proctoring for some exams (real estate availability varies by state). Operates 200+ U.S. testing centers.
What's the Same
Exam content. The state real estate commission writes (or approves) the questions; the vendor delivers them. Switching vendors doesn't change what you study.
Security procedures. Both require government-issued ID, fingerprint or palm-vein scan, no personal items in the testing room, and live proctoring.
Pacing. Both provide on-screen calculators, scratch paper or whiteboards, on-screen timers, and the ability to flag and revisit questions.
What's Different
Scheduling interface — different websites, account creation, and confirmation flows
Check-in procedure — slight differences in biometric scan and locker assignment
Software interface — minor visual differences in question display and calculator look
Center locations — PSI and Pearson VUE have different physical centers; some areas have more of one than the other
Online proctoring — Pearson VUE's OnVUE has been more widely deployed historically; PSI has Live Online Proctoring (LOP). Real estate availability is rare today regardless
Practice Realistic Exam Conditions
Whichever vendor administers your exam, the content is what matters. Take the diagnostic to see your starting score.
Related Pages
Vendor FAQ
Which vendor administers MY state's exam?
Check with your state real estate commission. Vendors and contracts change periodically. Your state's licensing portal or commission website typically lists the current vendor.
Does it matter which vendor I take the exam with?
Not for content. Both vendors deliver the same state-approved questions. Differences are administrative, not academic.
Can I choose between PSI and Pearson VUE?
No. Your state contracts with one vendor at a time. You take the exam from whichever vendor your state has selected.