Failed real estate exam 3 times? Here’s what to do

Why do people fail the real estate exam multiple times?

Did you fail the real estate exam? Don’t worry, even if you’ve failed three or more times, that doesn’t mean you can’t become a real estate agent. It is discouraging, we know, but it’s more common than you might think. 
In fact, many test-takers struggle to pass on the first try, some even fail three, four, or more times before succeeding. But look at things this way, knowing the common mistakes ahead of time can help you avoid them. So, let’s explore the reasons behind repeated failure as the first step toward turning things around. 

Why do people fail the real estate exam multiple times?

Depending on your state, the exam can be more or less difficult, but regardless, the pass rates are usually around 50%. But why is it so low?

Common reasons for failing the real estate exam include:

• Poor time management during the test: If you run out of time, you can leave many questions unanswered or rushed, so your final result won’t be the best. 
• Lack of understanding of key topics: Many test-takers overlook certain subjects or rely too heavily on memorization. That’s why understanding the topics and how they apply in real-life situations is important. 
• Inadequate preparation methods: Some candidates rely on outdated materials without realizing that this can be a major disadvantage. 
• Test anxiety: Getting nervous is normal, but it can interfere with your concentration and ability to recall.

If you’ve failed the real estate exam 3 times, you’re not alone, but now’s the time to shift your approach and be more strategic in your preparation.ate exam 3 times, you’re not alone—but now’s the time to shift your approach and prepare more strategically.

What to Do After Failing the Real Estate Exam 3 Times

First of all, do not panic or give up. This is not the end of the road, just a bump on it, and many states allow you to retake the exam several times. For some states, this may require additional steps, so be sure to check with your state’s real estate commission for the specific rules and state requirements.

Let’s focus on the steps you can take right now in preparation for your next attempt:

• Review your score report: Most states provide a breakdown of your performance by category. Identify which sections you struggled with the most so you can focus on those in your studies. 
• Create a new study plan: Focus more time on your weak areas, using updated and focused materials. But don’t forget to review all areas at least once. 
• Use quality real estate prep tools: Choose study tools that offer detailed explanations, flashcards to reinforce your knowledge, and unlimited real estate practice exams.
• Simulate exam conditions: Practice under timed conditions to improve your test-taking stamina and accuracy.
• Get support: Consider joining a study group or using a tutor or AI-based prep assistant for guidance.

Changing your mindset is key. Your past attempts are not failures, but feedback. In fact, each try brings you closer to knowing exactly how to succeed.

How to Improve Your Study Habits for Better Results

You might say, “I studied for a whole month and I still failed, this test is impossible”. But that’s not the truth. When you’re studying, the amount of time you reserve for it is as important as the way you do it. So let’s see more effective study strategies that you can try. 

• Break content into categories: Tackle topics one by one—such as contracts, property ownership, and finance—rather than studying everything at once. This is essential for your weak areas. 
• Use active recall and spaced repetition: You can do this with flashcards. It’s the perfect method for really learning all terms and concepts that you will need, plus, it improves long-term retention and reduces cramming. 
• Practice with intention: Don’t just guess on practice questions. Take the time to understand why the correct answer is right, and why the others are wrong.
• Mark questions for review: Focus especially on the questions you consistently get wrong. This helps identify knowledge gaps.

Track your progress: Use a performance tracker to monitor growth and know when you’re truly ready for the real test.

What If You’ve Failed the Real Estate Exam 5 Times?

If you’ve failed the real estate exam 5 times, you might wonder if you’re cut out for this career. The short answer is: yes, you are—if you’re willing to change your preparation strategy.

Some states require that you retake your pre-licensing course after a certain number of failed attempts. For example, after three or more failures, your state might require you to submit proof of additional education before retaking the test.

Here’s what to do if you’ve failed 5 times:

• Double-check your state’s retake policy: Some states limit the number of times you can retake the exam within a given period. Read the guidelines carefully, or check out our guide on how many times you can take the real estate exam.
• Re-enroll in your pre-licensing course if required: Many states offer refreshers or allow you to retake your course at a discounted rate.
• Consider a new prep course: If your current tools haven’t helped you pass, it’s time for a new approach. Use a platform that combines real estate content with smart study features and progress tracking.

Passing the exam is about preparation, not perfection. Many successful agents didn’t pass on their first—or fifth—try. Persistence, paired with the right tools, is what will make the difference.

Why Prep for the Real Estate Exam With Lexawise

If you want extra help during your exam preparation process, you’re in the right place. Our students report higher confidence and less stress during the exam, and the results are incredible.

Check out all the resources we offer with our Exam prep courses!

• 4,500+ Practice Questions across every key exam topic
• Smart Analytics to track your performance and progress
• Real Estate Math Guide with easy-to-follow steps
• Unlimited Practice Exams to build confidence and endurance
• Real Estate Exam Study Guide PDF to study anywhere, anytime
• 818 Flashcards to master your exam’s real estate terms
• Complete Real Estate Glossary to quickly find any term
• 24/7 AI Tutor ready to answer your questions on the spot
• Video Lessons to visually guide you through complex concepts
• 100 Audio Lessons so you can review key material on the go, hands-free

Lexawise suits every learning style and has very affordable pricing, going from $39 for a week-long intensive course to $79 for 6 months of access. Check our exam prep courses and find the one from your state to see our specialized plans.

FAQs After Failing Multiple Times

Is it normal to fail the real estate exam more than once?
Yes. The real estate exam is designed to be challenging, so many people take it multiple times before passing.

How soon can I retake the exam?
This depends on your state. Some allow a retake after a few days, while others may have a mandatory waiting period.

Will failing the exam affect my ability to become a real estate agent?
Not necessarily. Most states allow multiple attempts within a time frame. The key is staying motivated and adjusting your preparation.

Should I give up if I’ve failed several times?
Absolutely not. If real estate is your goal, then it’s worth the effort. Most successful agents struggled at some point; what matters is how you move forward.

Summing-up

Failing the real estate exam three or even five times doesn’t define your future; it just highlights the need for a new strategy. By identifying weak areas, changing your study habits, using the right prep tools, and staying committed, you can break through and pass with confidence.

Don’t wonder how many times you can take the real estate exam in your state. Become one of our students and join their stories of success!