Guides / Texas

How to get a real estate license in Houston, TX

There is no separate Houston real estate license. Agents in Houston hold a Texas sales agent license from the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC), the same as everywhere else in the state. Here is what that means locally, with the full steps in the Texas guide.

The Texas steps at a glance

  1. Meet the basics
  2. Take 180 hours of qualifying education
  3. Apply online and get fingerprinted
  4. Pass the exam
  5. Get sponsored by a broker

Full Texas guide · Renewal and CE rules

Houston by the numbers

Fort Bend County has 8,257 active licensees in the state's public record.

Picking a brokerage in Houston

The Texas guide explains when you need to work under a broker. Many new agents talk to a few local offices before they decide. These franchise offices list an address in Houston.

Offices in Houston

8 real estate franchise offices list an address in Houston: 4 Century 21 and 4 Coldwell Banker.

Source: All The Places (CC-0), from each brand's public office locator, as of October 18, 2026. Not affiliated and not a recommendation; confirm details with the office.

Agents and offices in Houston

Questions

Do I need a separate license to sell real estate in Houston?

Not for the real estate license itself: the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) issues it and it covers all of Texas. The city may have its own business license rules, so check with the city.

Where do I take the course if I live in Houston?

Any school approved by the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) works, in a classroom or online where the state allows it. Check the approval before you pay.

Nearby city guides: Katy · Sugar Land

This guide is general information, not legal advice. Rules change, so always confirm with the official source.

Licensed already?

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