Requirements for a California Real Estate License

To become a licensed real estate professional in California, there are several steps and qualifications you must meet, whether you are aiming to become a real estate salesperson or a broker. Below is a guide outlining the necessary requirements to help you navigate the process.

Salesperson License Requirements

A California real estate salesperson license is required for individuals conducting real estate activities under the supervision of a licensed broker. Here's what you need to qualify:

1. 1.) Age Requirement
   You must be at least 18 years old.

2. 2.) Educational Requirements
   Completion of three courses is mandatory. The courses are:
   Real Estate Principles
   Real Estate Practice
   One elective from our approved courses
   
   View Our Approved Salesperson Courses

3. 3. Exam Requirement
   You must pass the California Department of Real Estate (DRE) Salesperson Exam, a multiple-choice exam covering real estate laws and principles.
   
   View Our Exam Preparation System

4. 4.) Honesty and Background Check
   Applicants must be honest and truthful, and a background check, including fingerprint submission, will be conducted.

Once these requirements are met for the salesperson license, you can submit your application through the DRE and, upon approval, officially receive your real estate license.

See What It Costs To Obtain A License

Broker License Requirements

If you aim to take your career further, obtaining a California real estate broker license will allow you to operate independently and oversee other salespersons.

1. 1.) Age and Residency
   Like the salesperson license, applicants must be at least 18 years old. Non-residents can apply but must meet additional conditions.

2. 2.) Experience Requirement
   You must have at least two years of full-time licensed salesperson experience within the last five years or equivalent real estate experience. Alternatively, applicants with a degree in real estate from a four-year college may be exempt from this requirement.

3. 3.) Educational Requirements
   Completion of eight college-level courses is required, covering topics such as:
   Real Estate Practice
   Legal Aspects of Real Estate
   Real Estate Finance
   Real Estate Appraisal
   Real Estate Economics or Accounting
   Three of our approved elective courses
   
   Keep in mind that any real estate courses taken in California for a salesperson license will count toward the brokers license. In addition, courses taken in college will count as well. Continuing education courses are not eligible for fulfilling these requirements.
   
   View Our Approved Broker Courses

4. 4.) Exam and Application
   After meeting educational and experience qualifications, you’ll need to pass the DRE Broker Exam. Once passed, you can apply for the broker license.
   
   View Our Exam Preparation System

For more details on verifying your experience, or to start your application, call the school at (888) 544-4403. The real estate licensing process in California can be complex, but following these steps will ensure you’re on the right path toward your new career.

View The Steps It Takes To Become Licensed