Classroom courses for real estate license holders and inspectors require the instructor and the student to interact face-to-face and in real time, either in the same physical location, or though technology.  Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, many courses that historically were offered in a classroom, are now being offered virtually.  In fact, the number of classroom courses taught virtually has skyrocketed. 

The Texas Real Estate Commission is accepting applications for appointment for four real estate license holders members and two education members to the Education Standards Advisory Committee (ESAC).  Committee members will serve a two-year term beginning January 1, 2021, and expiring December 31, 2022. Real estate license holders applying must have been actively engaged in the practice of real estate for the five years preceding the appointment.

In light of the current COVID-19 pandemic, TREC understands that some inspector applicants may find it challenging to complete the in-person ride-along course required for licensure.

To implement requirements in the agency’s Sunset bill, the Commission recently adopted rules eliminating TREC licenses for instructors.  However, the standards that set the qualifications for instructors did not change.  Effective September 1, education providers are now responsible to ensure instructors meet the qualifications to teach a course.

To implement provisions in the agency’s recent Sunset bill, TREC has proposed rules to eliminate instructor licensing.  The proposed rules are expected to be adopted at the August Commission meeting with an effective date of September 1, 2019.

To implement provisions in the agency’s Sunset bill, the Commission has proposed rules to eliminate instructor licensing.  The proposed rules are expected to be adopted at the August Commission meeting with an effective date of September 1, 2019. TREC will continue to approve and renew instructor licenses through August 31, 2019. 

A provider is responsible for making sure course examinations are proctored by a faculty or staff member, or third party proctor acceptable to the Commission.  Examples of acceptable third party proctors are listed in Section 535.65(h) of TREC rules.  Proctors must be required to positively identify that the student taking the exam is the student who registered for and took the course.  It is equally important to make sure proctors understand that an examinee must be monitored at all times. 

If you were not tuned in to the February Commission meeting you missed a very important announcement. 

Deadlines for content revisions to the Real Estate Appraisal, Real Estate Investments, Real Estate Law and Residential Inspection for Real Estate Agents qualifying real estate course topics were adopted and are effective on August 7, 2018 for classroom courses and November 7, 2018 for courses offered through distance education.  If you have not resubmitted your courses for review, you may do so by mailing the

Effective November 15, 2017, course providers approved to offer the qualifying Real Estate Marketing course through distance education delivery must comply with content revisions adopted by the Commission.