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NY Real Estate License

New York Real Estate Exam Guide & Study Resources

3,600+ practice questions, study guides, and NY licensing info. Pass your salesperson or broker exam on the first try — free, no credit card required.

3,600+Practice Questions
63%State Pass RateSource: DOS
$72KAvg SalaryView Details →Source: BLS OEWS 2023
94%Our Pass RateBased on 2024 user survey (n=1,247)
Reviewed byMichael Chen

New York Real Estate Exam Key Facts

New York requires 75 hours of pre-license education and administers a 75-question exam through the Department of State. The state's diverse market — from Manhattan condos to upstate rural properties — offers wide-ranging opportunities for licensed agents.

Salesperson ExamExam FeeLicensing AuthorityRenewal
See DOS's current candidate handbookSee DOS's current candidate handbookDOSEvery 2 years / 22.5 CE hours

Source: New York Department of State · Salary data: BLS OEWS · Our methodology

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Recent New York Real Estate Law Updates

Exam Adds Buyer Agreement Scenario Questions

High ImpactJan 2026

The 2026 New York salesperson exam blueprint allocates a larger share of agency and contract questions to exclusive buyer representation agreements — required disclosures, timing, compensation terms, and the fiduciary duties that activate on signing. Expect scenario-based fact patterns rather than definitions.

Official Source

Buyer Representation Agreement Requirement

High ImpactJun 2025

New York DOS mandates written buyer agency agreements before showing properties, aligning with the NAR settlement. Agreements must disclose compensation terms and agent duties.

Official Source

Good Cause Eviction Protections Expanded

High ImpactJan 2025

New York expanded good cause eviction protections statewide, affecting landlord-tenant law questions. Agents must understand tenant rights in rental and investment transactions.

Official Source

Note: This information is for reference only. Always verify current requirements with the DOS.

New York Real Estate Exam Overview

Licensing Authority

New York Department of State

(DOS)

Official Website
Exam Fees

Set by DOS and its testing vendor — See DOS's current candidate handbook.

Choose Your License Type

Select the exam you're preparing for

Most Popular
Salesperson License
Entry-level license for new real estate agents

Requirements:

  • 18 years of age
  • 75 hours pre-license education
  • Pass background check
  • Pass state exam
Passing ScorePer DOS
Start New York Salesperson Prep
Advanced
Broker License
For experienced agents ready to manage a brokerage

Requirements:

  • 2 years as salesperson
  • 45 hours broker education
  • Pass broker exam
Passing ScorePer DOS
Start New York Broker Prep

Frequently Asked Questions

How hard is the New York real estate exam?

The New York real estate exam has a first-time pass rate of approximately 63%. DOS sets the number of questions and the passing score. See the current DOS candidate handbook: https://dos.ny.gov/real-estate-agent. With EstatePass practice tests, our students achieve a 94% pass rate.

How many questions are on the NY real estate exam?

DOS sets the number of questions, the time allowed, and the passing score, and they change from time to time. See the current DOS candidate handbook: https://dos.ny.gov/real-estate-agent. EstatePass practice exams follow the current format.

What is the cost of getting a real estate license in New York?

Budget for the exam fee, pre-license courses (typically $200-$500), the license application fee, and a background check. DOS sets the exam and application fees. See the current DOS candidate handbook: https://dos.ny.gov/real-estate-agent.

What are the New York real estate license renewal requirements?

New York licenses renew on a fixed cycle with a continuing-education requirement, both set by New York Department of State. Check DOS for the current renewal period and CE hours.

How long does it take to get a real estate license in New York?

Most New York candidates complete the licensing process in 2-4 months. This includes completing required pre-license education, passing the state exam administered under DOS, and submitting your license application.

Can you take the New York real estate exam online?

New York real estate exams are typically administered at approved testing centers by PSI or Pearson VUE. Some states allow remote proctored exams. Check with DOS for current online testing options and requirements.

What topics are on the New York real estate exam?

The New York real estate exam covers both national and state-specific topics. National topics include property ownership, contracts, financing, agency law, valuation, transfer of title, and real estate math. The NY-specific section covers New York license law, regulations from DOS, and state-specific disclosure requirements.

What is the best way to study for the New York real estate exam?

The most effective study strategy for the New York exam includes: (1) completing your pre-license education with active note-taking, (2) practicing with New York-specific practice exams, (3) focusing on your weak topics identified through practice tests, (4) taking timed mock exams to build test stamina, and (5) reviewing NY-specific laws and regulations from DOS.

How many times can you retake the New York real estate exam?

Retake rules — waiting periods, attempt limits, and whether a failed portion can be retaken on its own — are set by DOS and its testing vendor. See the current DOS candidate handbook: https://dos.ny.gov/real-estate-agent. Pre-license course completion is usually valid for a limited period, so plan to pass within it.

What score do you need to pass the New York real estate exam?

The passing score is set by DOS. See the current DOS candidate handbook: https://dos.ny.gov/real-estate-agent. The state average first-time pass rate is 63%, so thorough preparation is essential.

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