Before you test. Tennessee is unusual here: your PSI exam application has to be signed by your principal broker, so you'll need to line up your sponsoring brokerage before your exam date — not after you're licensed like in most other states.

Two separate courses: 60 hours of pre-license education before you can sit for the exam, plus a 30-hour "Course for New Affiliates" that must be completed before your license is actually issued.

It's required for all initial applicants, but not for existing affiliate licensees who are advancing to a broker license and already meet current requirements. Fingerprinting runs about $35 through IdentoGO.

You can retake the section you failed right away on your first miss. After a second failed attempt, Tennessee requires a 30-day wait before you can try again. A passing score on one section stays valid for two retakes or six months, whichever comes first.

Within six months of passing, you'll need to submit proof of errors and omissions (E&O) insurance and pay a $110 fee to have your license issued.