Some people mistakenly believe that all you have to do to become a real estate agent is to apply for a license to sell homes. In South Carolina, you must complete a total of 90 hours of pre-license education at a state-approved school. You must also take the South Carolina real estate test and score 70% or higher. Once you have done these things, you are then eligible to apply for your license.

While you cannot review the actual test ahead of time, you can (and should) take practice tests. You will also want to get yourself a quality study guide to help you prepare for the exam. If you do not pass the test on your first attempt, you are allowed to re-take it. Talking to your instructors, using a comprehensive study guide and taking practice tests should give you a good idea of what type of questions to expect on your final exam. This post also provides a basic overview.

South Carolina real estate test includes nationally specific questions

When taking your South Carolina real estate test, you will answer various types of questions. Some questions are nationally based. Answering these questions demonstrates your knowledge about the nature and scope of the daily tasks you will perform as a real estate agent.

There will be approximately 80 questions in this section. It will cover all the major concepts you studied in real estate school. Some of the topics this portion of the test might contain include contract issues, title transfers, financing, commercial and industrial properties, and more.

There is also a state-specific section on the real estate exam

In the state-specific section of your state exam, you will answer questions regarding regulations, laws and protocol that are specific to South Carolina. Every state has its own real estate laws. Avoid the mistake of thinking that, because you might have studied real estate laws in one state, you will be ready for the test in another.

Questions in this part of the test might have to do with closings or agency relationships, as well as statutes, licensing requirements and other issues.

Good study habits will help you succeed

Taking the South Carolina real estate test as an adult is not much different than taking a final exam in high school or college. Studying well increases your chances of scoring well on the test. You can study on your own or in a group, use flashcards or a ready-made study guide.

Whatever resources you choose, be diligent, thorough and consistent. And, most importantly, do not hesitate to reach out to an instructor or mentor for additional support if you are struggling to understand a particular concept.