Real Estate Agent License Exam: A Complete Guide

Requirements to Access the Exam

To take the real estate agent exam, you must meet some basic requirements:

• Educational Qualification: At least a high school diploma is required.

• Specific Training: You must attend a course recognized by the Region, generally organized by accredited bodies or Chambers of Commerce. These courses provide the essential technical and legal skills needed to pass the exam and are a first step toward acquiring the professional mindset that characterizes a successful real estate consultant.

It is not required to have worked in the real estate sector before taking the exam. However, any practical experience can be an added value for better understanding market dynamics and tackling the topics covered during the training with greater awareness.

For an even more detailed overview of the entire process, we recommend reading our guide on how to become a real estate agent in Italy.

How the Exam is Conducted

The exam to obtain the real estate agent license is held at the Chamber of Commerce of the candidate's province of residence or professional domicile. The entire process is designed to verify not only theoretical knowledge but also the ability to apply it in practical contexts.

The exam is structured in two main phases:

1. Written Test: This consists of a series of multiple-choice questions and, in some cases, open-ended questions. The goal is to ascertain technical knowledge of legal, tax, and property valuation matters. The written test is the first filter: only those who pass can proceed to the oral exam.

2. Oral Exam: This is a formal interview before a commission, where the topics from the written test are explored in greater depth. The commission may also present practical cases, simulating typical situations in mediation activities, such as drafting a preliminary contract or managing a sales mandate.

The subjects covered in the exam are extensive and include:

• Civil and commercial law, with a particular focus on sales and lease agreements;

• Tax law and fiscal regulations related to real estate transactions;

• Elements of property appraisal and valuation;

• Urban planning and land registry regulations;

• Specific regulations on real estate mediation activities.

The evaluation follows objective criteria: candidates must achieve a passing score on both tests to be deemed qualified. If unsuccessful, it is possible to retake the exam, generally after a period established by the Chamber of Commerce.

Preparing for the Exam: Practical Tips

Tackling the real estate agent license exam requires method, consistency, and targeted preparation. Some useful suggestions include:

• Create a Structured Study Plan Divide the subjects into weekly modules, alternating between law, taxation, appraisal, and real estate regulations. a precise schedule helps maintain consistency and ensures you arrive at the exam date fully prepared.

• Choose Quality Materials Updated manuals and specific preparation courses are indispensable tools. Many institutions also organize mock exams, which are useful for familiarizing yourself with the test formats and reducing performance anxiety.

• Focus on the Most Complex Areas Sales contracts, leasing regulations, tax compliance, and land registry matters are the topics that most frequently cause difficulties for candidates. Dedicating extra time to these is an investment that increases the chances of success.

• Practice for the Oral Exam It's not enough to know the theory; it's crucial to learn how to present it clearly, orderly, and professionally. Simulating interviews with teachers or colleagues, recording yourself speaking, and listening back helps improve clarity and confidence.

• Supplement Study with Practical Experience If possible, shadowing a licensed agent or participating in industry activities allows you to connect theory with daily reality, making learning more concrete and natural.

• Manage Stress and Maintain Motivation Concentration techniques, short breaks during study, and a sustainable pace help maintain mental clarity and determination until the day of the exam.

Preparing thoroughly is the first step toward acquiring the professionalism that distinguishes successful real estate agents.

After the Exam: Registration and First Career Steps

Passing the exam does not yet grant the license: you must register with the REA – Repertorio Economico Amministrativo (Economic and Administrative Register) at the Chamber of Commerce. Only at this point do you officially acquire the right to practice as a real estate agent.

From here, the real professional journey begins, made of field experience, personal growth, and developing a network of contacts. In this context, established companies like Engel & Völkers offer a structured and stimulating model for taking the first steps in your career.

If you are at the beginning of your journey, you might find this in-depth look at the challenges and opportunities that characterize the first experiences of a real estate agent useful.

Why Rely on an International Network like Engel & Völkers

Joining a brand with an international scope means not just practicing the profession, but doing so with an extra edge. Engel & Völkers offers:

• Continuous Training, to constantly update your skills and keep pace with market evolution.

• Support for Professional Growth, thanks to innovative tools and a mentoring environment.

• An International Network, which allows you to work with clients and colleagues in a premium, global context.

Choosing Engel & Völkers means turning your license into a real career opportunity, where professionalism and excellence meet.