Texas Property Tax Consultant Exam Study Guide: Pass the RPTC Your First Try
Pass the Texas RPTC exam on your first try with this comprehensive study guide covering the Property Tax Code, appraisal methods, protest procedures, and 50+ practice questions.
Key Takeaways:
- Exam basics: The Texas Property Tax Consultant (RPTC) exam requires a 70% passing score, administered by PSI at 17+ locations statewide
- Pre-license education: Complete 40 hours of approved classroom education before sitting for the exam (8 hours laws/rules, 16 hours appraisal/evaluation, 8 hours consulting, 8 hours ethics)
- Core content areas: Texas Property Tax Code, three approaches to value (cost, income, sales comparison), protest procedures (Chapter 41), judicial review (Chapter 42), and exemptions
- Critical deadlines to memorize: May 15 protest deadline, February 1 tax delinquency date, 60-day binding arbitration window, 45-day judicial appeal timeline
- Exam strategy: Focus heavily on Tax Code Chapters 23, 25, 41, 41A, and 42—these sections represent the bulk of exam questions
The Texas Property Tax Consultant exam isn't just another licensing test. It's the gateway to a $2+ billion industry in a state with no income tax and property values that have skyrocketed 40-60% in many counties over the past five years.
Here's the reality: Texas homeowners and businesses pay some of the highest property taxes in the nation. They need help navigating a complex protest system. And the state requires anyone offering that help for compensation to hold an RPTC license.
This guide covers everything you need to pass the exam on your first attempt. We're talking the actual content that appears on the test—not generic study advice. Consider this your desk reference while preparing.
Let's get into it.
1. Exam Overview: Format, Requirements & Registration
Before diving into content, let's cover the logistics. Understanding what you're walking into reduces test anxiety and helps you plan your preparation timeline.
Exam Administration
The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) oversees property tax consultant licensing. The actual exam is administered by PSI (Psychological Services Inc.) at 17+ testing locations throughout Texas.
Key exam details:
- Passing score: 70% or higher
- Format: Multiple choice, computer-based
- Time limit: Varies (check your Candidate Information Bulletin)
- Exam fee: Paid directly to PSI at scheduling
- Results: Provided immediately at the testing center
- Retakes: No limit on attempts, but you pay the fee each time
Pre-License Education Requirements
You cannot sit for the exam until you complete 40 hours of TDLR-approved classroom education broken down as follows:
| Topic Area | Required Hours |
|---|---|
| Laws and rules relating to property tax consulting | 8 hours |
| Appraisal and evaluation | 16 hours |
| Property tax consulting | 8 hours |
| Ethics | 8 hours |
| Total | 40 hours |
TDLR maintains a list of approved education providers. The Texas Association of Property Tax Professionals (TAPTP) is a popular option, as are courses offered through the Texas Comptroller's office and various private providers.
Application Process
- Complete 40 hours of pre-license education
- Submit your Property Tax Consultant Application to TDLR with the $50 fee ($25 registration + $25 application)
- Once approved, TDLR notifies PSI electronically
- PSI mails you an eligibility postcard with scheduling instructions
- Schedule and pay for your exam through PSI
- Pass the exam and receive your registration
Important: You have one year from TDLR approval to take and pass the exam. Don't procrastinate.
2. Texas Property Tax Code Structure
The Texas Property Tax Code is your bible for this exam. Understanding its structure helps you quickly locate information and recognize which chapter a question is testing.
Title 1: Property Tax Code - Key Chapters
| Chapter | Title | What It Covers | Exam Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chapter 1 | General Provisions | Definitions, market value definition, taxable situs | Medium |
| Chapter 11 | Taxable Property and Exemptions | Homestead, disabled veteran, over-65, agricultural exemptions | High |
| Chapter 22 | Renditions and Other Reports | Business personal property renditions, deadlines, penalties | Medium |
| Chapter 23 | Appraisal Methods and Procedures | Cost, income, and sales comparison approaches | Very High |
| Chapter 25 | Local Appraisal | Appraisal roll corrections (Section 25.25) | High |
| Chapter 31 | Collections | Tax bill requirements, delinquency dates, payment options | Medium |
| Chapter 41 | Local Review | ARB protests, hearing procedures, right to protest | Very High |
| Chapter 41A | Binding Arbitration | Alternative to judicial review, requirements, deposits | High |
| Chapter 42 | Judicial Review | District court appeals, filing requirements | High |
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FAQs
How many questions are on the Texas Property Tax Consultant exam?
The exact number varies, but expect approximately 80-100 multiple choice questions. Check the current Candidate Information Bulletin (CIB) from PSI for the most accurate information, as the exam format may change.
What is the passing score for the RPTC exam?
You need a score of 70% or higher to pass. Results are provided immediately after completing the exam at the PSI testing center.
How long do I have to take the exam after TDLR approval?
You have one year from the date your application is approved to take and pass the exam. After that, you would need to reapply.
Can I retake the exam if I fail?
Yes, there is no limit on retakes. However, you must pay the exam fee each time. Use your score report to identify weak areas and study those sections before retesting.
What's the difference between a Property Tax Consultant and Senior Property Tax Consultant?
A Property Tax Consultant must work under the supervision of a Senior Property Tax Consultant (or qualifying attorney/CPA). The Senior designation requires 4+ years of experience as your primary occupation and additional education credits. Senior PTCs can operate independently and supervise other consultants.
Ryder Meehan
Ryder Meehan is the Co-Founder of TaxDrop and a Licensed Property Tax Protest Consultant
