What Are the Steps to Become a Real Estate Broker in Tennessee?

Becoming a real estate broker in Tennessee opens the door to a rewarding career filled with opportunities for growth, independence, and financial success. Whether you’re looking to advance from a real estate agent position or starting fresh in the industry, understanding the path to licensure and the requirements specific to Tennessee is essential. This journey not only equips you with the knowledge and skills to thrive but also positions you as a trusted professional in a competitive market.

Navigating the process of becoming a licensed real estate broker involves more than just passing an exam. It requires a clear understanding of state regulations, education prerequisites, and practical experience that set brokers apart from agents. Tennessee’s real estate landscape offers unique challenges and advantages, making it important for aspiring brokers to be well-informed about what lies ahead.

In the following sections, you’ll gain insight into the steps necessary to achieve broker status in Tennessee, including the qualifications you need to meet and the opportunities that come with this career milestone. Whether your goal is to manage your own brokerage or elevate your role within an established firm, this guide will help you prepare for success in the Volunteer State’s dynamic real estate market.

Educational and Experience Requirements

To qualify for a real estate broker license in Tennessee, candidates must meet specific educational and experience prerequisites set by the Tennessee Real Estate Commission (TREC). These requirements ensure that applicants possess the necessary knowledge and practical experience to operate responsibly and effectively as brokers.

First, candidates must have at least two years of active experience as a licensed real estate salesperson or affiliate broker within the preceding five years. This experience helps build a comprehensive understanding of real estate transactions, contracts, and client relationships.

In terms of education, applicants are required to complete 120 hours of approved real estate education beyond the salesperson level. This coursework typically includes advanced topics related to real estate law, brokerage management, ethics, and finance. Many applicants fulfill these requirements by enrolling in state-approved real estate schools or online programs that align with TREC standards.

Application Process for Broker License

Once the educational and experience criteria are met, candidates must submit a formal application to the Tennessee Real Estate Commission. The application process involves several steps designed to verify eligibility and readiness for broker responsibilities.

Applicants need to provide:

Proof of completion of the required education hours.
Documentation verifying active salesperson experience.
A completed and signed application form.
Payment of the applicable licensing fee.

Additionally, candidates must submit to a background check, including fingerprinting, as part of the application. The commission uses this information to ensure applicants meet ethical standards and have no disqualifying criminal history.

Broker Licensing Examination Details

After the application is approved, candidates are eligible to sit for the Tennessee real estate broker examination. The exam is designed to assess the applicant’s knowledge of state and national real estate laws, principles, and practices relevant to brokerage activities.

The exam format typically includes:

Multiple-choice questions covering real estate law, contracts, finance, brokerage management, and ethics.
A total of approximately 120 questions.
A time limit of around 3.5 to 4 hours.

Applicants must achieve a passing score, usually set at 75% or higher, to qualify for licensure. Those who do not pass on the first attempt may retake the exam after a mandatory waiting period.

Post-Examination Steps and License Activation

Upon successfully passing the broker exam, candidates must complete several final steps to activate their broker license.

These steps include:

Submitting proof of errors and omissions insurance, which protects brokers from liability related to professional errors.
Completing an application for license issuance, if not already done.
Choosing a brokerage affiliation or establishing an independent brokerage firm, as brokers can operate independently or under a licensed entity.
Paying any additional licensing or activation fees.

Once these conditions are met and approved by TREC, the broker license is issued, allowing the individual to legally conduct brokerage activities in Tennessee.

Continuing Education and License Renewal

Maintaining a real estate broker license in Tennessee requires adherence to continuing education (CE) mandates and timely license renewal.

Brokers must complete 16 hours of continuing education every two years, which typically includes:

8 hours of core law covering recent changes in real estate legislation.
8 hours of elective courses related to real estate practice.

Failure to complete CE requirements before the renewal deadline may result in license suspension or revocation.

The renewal process involves submitting a renewal application and paying the renewal fee to TREC. The commission notifies licensees in advance of renewal dates to facilitate compliance.

Requirement	Details
Experience	2 years as licensed salesperson within last 5 years
Education	120 hours of broker-level courses
Examination	Broker exam with ≥75% passing score
Insurance	Proof of errors and omissions insurance
Continuing Education	16 hours every 2 years (8 core law, 8 elective)
Renewal	Submit application and fee biennially

Educational and Licensing Requirements for Tennessee Real Estate Brokers

To become a licensed real estate broker in Tennessee, candidates must meet specific educational and licensing prerequisites established by the Tennessee Real Estate Commission (TREC). These requirements ensure brokers possess the necessary knowledge and experience to operate professionally within the state.

Basic Eligibility Criteria

Be at least 18 years old.
Have a high school diploma or equivalent.
Be a legal U.S. resident.
Hold an active Tennessee real estate salesperson license for a minimum of 3 years within the 5 years immediately preceding the broker application.

Pre-Licensing Education

Before applying for a broker license, candidates must complete a mandatory broker pre-licensing course approved by TREC. This course covers advanced real estate principles, laws, and brokerage management topics not included in the salesperson curriculum.

Course Hours: At least 60 hours of broker-specific coursework.
Course Content Includes:
- Brokerage operations and management
- Real estate law and ethics
- Contracts and agency relationships
- Property management and finance
- Risk management and compliance

Application and Examination Process

After meeting the educational requirements and holding an active salesperson license for the required period, candidates must submit an application to TREC to take the broker licensing exam. The process includes the following steps:

Step	Description
Submit Broker License Application	Complete and submit the broker license application form along with the applicable fee to TREC.
Schedule the Broker Exam	Upon application approval, schedule the state broker licensing exam through the designated testing provider.
Pass the Broker Licensing Exam	The exam consists of national and state-specific sections, testing knowledge on advanced real estate practices, laws, and regulations.
Complete Background Check	Submit fingerprints for a criminal background check as part of the licensing process.

Broker Licensing Exam Details

Format: Multiple choice questions divided into national and Tennessee state law portions.
Passing Score: Typically 75% or higher on each section.
Retake Policy: Candidates may retake the exam if unsuccessful, subject to TREC guidelines and fees.

Additional Requirements and Considerations

Errors and Omissions Insurance: Brokers must maintain errors and omissions insurance as required by state law or brokerage policy.
Continuing Education: After obtaining the broker license, licensees must comply with continuing education mandates to maintain licensure.
Brokerage Sponsorship: New brokers must affiliate with a principal broker or establish their own brokerage firm to practice legally.

Expert Perspectives on Becoming a Real Estate Broker in Tennessee

Jessica Martin (Licensed Real Estate Broker and Founder of Martin Realty Group). “To become a real estate broker in Tennessee, it is essential first to gain substantial experience as a licensed real estate agent, typically a minimum of three years. This hands-on experience builds the foundational knowledge required to manage transactions, understand market dynamics, and lead a brokerage effectively. Additionally, completing the state-mandated 120-hour broker pre-licensing education ensures that candidates are well-versed in Tennessee’s real estate laws and ethical standards.”

David Chen (Real Estate Education Specialist, Tennessee Association of Realtors). “Aspiring brokers must pass the Tennessee Broker Licensing Exam, which rigorously tests both state and national real estate principles. Preparation through comprehensive coursework and practice exams is crucial. Furthermore, maintaining a clean professional record and demonstrating financial responsibility are key factors that the Tennessee Real Estate Commission evaluates during the application process.”

Linda Gonzalez (Brokerage Compliance Officer, Tennessee Real Estate Commission). “Compliance with continuing education requirements and adherence to state regulations are vital for sustaining a broker’s license in Tennessee. New brokers should also focus on developing strong leadership skills and building a network of industry professionals, as these are critical for operating a successful brokerage. Understanding local market trends and consumer protection laws will position brokers to serve their clients effectively and ethically.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the basic requirements to become a real estate broker in Tennessee?
Applicants must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and hold an active real estate salesperson license for at least three years within the past five years.

How many hours of education are required before applying for a broker license?
Tennessee requires completion of 120 hours of approved real estate education, including 60 hours of broker-specific courses.

Is passing an exam necessary to obtain a real estate broker license in Tennessee?
Yes, candidates must pass the Tennessee Real Estate Broker Examination administered by the state’s regulatory authority.

What experience is needed to qualify for a broker license in Tennessee?
Applicants must have at least three years of active real estate salesperson experience within the last five years under a licensed broker.

How do I apply for a real estate broker license in Tennessee?
After meeting education and experience requirements and passing the exam, submit a completed application with the required fees to the Tennessee Real Estate Commission.

Are continuing education requirements mandatory for maintaining a broker license in Tennessee?
Yes, licensed brokers must complete 16 hours of continuing education every two years to renew their license.
Becoming a real estate broker in Tennessee requires meeting specific educational, experiential, and licensing criteria established by the Tennessee Real Estate Commission. Prospective brokers must first obtain a real estate salesperson license, accumulate the necessary experience by working under a licensed broker, complete the required pre-licensing education, and then successfully pass the Tennessee broker licensing exam. This structured pathway ensures that brokers possess the knowledge, skills, and practical experience needed to operate effectively within the state’s real estate market.

Key takeaways for aspiring brokers include the importance of fulfilling the minimum experience requirement, which currently mandates at least three years of active licensure as a real estate salesperson. Additionally, completing the designated 120-hour broker pre-licensing course is essential to prepare for the licensing exam and to understand the legal and ethical responsibilities involved in brokerage. Maintaining compliance with continuing education and renewal requirements is also critical to sustaining an active broker license in Tennessee.

Overall, the process to become a real estate broker in Tennessee is designed to uphold high professional standards and protect consumer interests. By adhering to these requirements and committing to ongoing professional development, individuals can build a successful career as licensed real estate brokers, capable of managing their own firms or supervising other agents within the state.

Author Profile

Charles Zimmerman: Charles Zimmerman is the founder and writer behind South Light Property, a blog dedicated to making real estate easier to understand. Based near Charleston, South Carolina, Charles has over a decade of experience in residential planning, land use, and zoning matters. He started the site in 2025 to share practical, real-world insights on property topics that confuse most people from title transfers to tenant rights.

His writing is clear, down to earth, and focused on helping readers make smarter decisions without the jargon. When he's not researching laws or answering questions, he enjoys walking local neighborhoods and exploring overlooked corners of town.