How much does the state exam cost?
Two Fees, One Test Day
When budgeting for your North Carolina real estate career, the cost of the state licensing exam is one of the most immediate expenses after your pre-licensing course. Many applicants mistakenly think it’s a single fee. In fact, the total payment to the state for examination eligibility is split into two non-refundable fees. How much does the state licensing exam cost in North Carolina?
The total initial cost is approximately $160 to $164, which is a combination of the application fee (paid to the NCREC) and the exam fee (paid to the testing vendor, PSI).
The Mandatory Fee Breakdown
Here is the crucial breakdown of the costs you pay after passing your 75-hour course and before scheduling your test:
| Fee Component | Amount | Paid To | Purpose |
| Application Fee | $100 | NC Real Estate Commission (NCREC) | Non-refundable fee for processing your application, background check review, and granting 180-day eligibility. |
| Exam Fee | $60 – $64 (varies slightly by vendor) | PSI Services LLC (Exam Vendor) | Fee for reserving your seat and taking the comprehensive two-part exam. |
| Total Initial Cost | $160 – $164 |
The Cost of a Retake: Double the Pain
If you do not pass one or both sections of the exam on your first try, be aware that you incur costs with every attempt within your 180-day window.
- Retake Costs (Failing one or both sections): You must pay the full $100 NCREC application fee again, plus the exam fee ($50 – $60) to the testing vendor. This makes each subsequent attempt expensive, reinforcing the need to study thoroughly the first time.
Pro-Tip: Don’t forget the Criminal Background Check fee (typically $15 to $45), which must be paid separately to the NCREC’s approved vendor before your application can be processed.
Key Takeaway
The NC Real Estate Licensing Exam costs about $160 – $164 initially, broken down into a $100 application fee to the NCREC and a $60 exam fee to PSI. This total amount must be paid for every retake, making preparation the most cost-effective strategy.