California Real Estate License Requirements – Complete 2025 Guide

Getting your California real estate license requires 135 hours of education, passing a state exam, and finding a sponsoring broker. The licensing process typically takes several weeks to several months depending on your study schedule and background. Here’s your complete guide to becoming a licensed real estate agent in California.

Quick California License Facts

Requirement	Details
Education Hours	135 hours (3 courses of 45 hours each)
Estimated Timeline	Varies by study schedule and individual pace
Age Requirement	18+ years old
Background Check	Required
Exam Format	Computer-based, multiple choice
Passing Score	70% (verify current requirements)

Always verify current requirements with the California Department of Real Estate at dre.ca.gov

How to Get Your California Real Estate License

Step 1: Complete 135 Hours of Pre-License Education

California requires 135 hours of real estate education from a state-approved provider. This education is divided into three mandatory courses:

Required Courses:

Real Estate Principles – 45 hours
Real Estate Practice – 45 hours
One Elective Course – 45 hours

Popular Elective Options:

Real Estate Finance
Real Estate Law
Real Estate Appraisal
Property Management
Real Estate Economics
Escrows
Mortgage Loan Brokering

Study Schedule Considerations:

The time to complete your education depends on your available study hours per week and learning pace. Some students complete courses in a few weeks with intensive study, while others prefer a more gradual approach over several months.

Step 2: Pass the California Real Estate Exam

After completing your education, you’ll take the California Real Estate Salesperson Exam administered by PSI Services:

Format: Computer-based test
Sections: National real estate principles + California state law
Passing requirement: 70% on each section
Retakes: Available with waiting period between attempts

Check the California DRE website and PSI Services for current exam format, question count, time limits, and fees.

Exam Topics Include:

Property ownership and land use controls
Laws of agency and fiduciary duties
Property valuation and financial analysis
Financing and settlement procedures
California real estate law and regulations
Disclosure requirements
Fair housing laws

Step 3: Submit Your License Application

Once you pass the exam:

Complete the official salesperson license application
Pay required license fees
Submit fingerprints for background check
Provide official transcripts from your real estate school

Processing time varies – check current DRE processing times.

Step 4: Find a Sponsoring Broker

You cannot work as an independent real estate agent in California. You must work under a licensed broker who will:

Activate your license
Provide supervision and training
Handle transaction oversight
Establish commission structure

California Real Estate License Costs

Licensing costs in California include several components:

Expense Category	Notes
Pre-license education	Varies by school and package selected
Exam fees	Set by testing provider
License application fee	Set by California DRE
Background check	Live Scan fingerprinting fee
Materials and resources	Optional textbooks, prep materials

Ongoing Costs to Consider:

License renewal (every 4 years)
Continuing education requirements
MLS fees (varies by area)
Errors & omissions insurance
Professional association dues

Check the California DRE website for current fee schedules and each school’s website for current pricing.

California Real Estate License Cost Breakdown

Estimated Initial Licensing Costs in California

A visual breakdown of typical startup expenses for a California license.

Disclaimer: These figures are estimates for 2025 and can vary significantly based on the school chosen, location for fingerprinting, and optional materials purchased. Always check official sources for the most current fees.

California Real Estate Schools

When selecting a real estate school, consider factors like learning format, support services, pricing, and student reviews. Here are some well-known state-approved providers:

The CE Shop

Format: Self-paced online
Features: Mobile-friendly platform, student support
Best for: Students seeking online flexibility
Special offers: Check website for current military discounts and promotions

Colibri Real Estate

Format: Self-paced online with optional live sessions
Features: Pass guarantees, instructor support
Best for: Students wanting guarantee programs
Special offers: Various package options available

Kaplan Real Estate Education

Format: Multiple learning formats available
Features: Instructor-led options, career resources
Best for: Students preferring instructor guidance
Special offers: May accept GI Bill benefits

Aceable Agent

Format: Mobile-optimized online platform
Features: Modern interface, interactive lessons
Best for: Mobile-first learners
Special offers: Check for current promotions

School Selection Tips:

Compare current pricing and package options
Read recent student reviews and success rates
Consider your preferred learning style
Check for money-back guarantees or pass guarantees
Verify military discounts if applicable
Ensure the school is approved by California DRE

Contact schools directly for current pricing, promotions, and specific features.

California Real Estate Exam Preparation

Study Strategies for Success

Creating Your Study Plan:

Set consistent study schedule based on your availability
Focus on understanding concepts, not just memorization
Take practice exams to identify weak areas
Review California-specific laws and regulations thoroughly
Allow adequate time for exam preparation after completing courses

Key Areas to Master:

Real estate math and calculations
Agency relationships and fiduciary duties
California disclosure requirements
Contract law and purchase agreements
Fair housing regulations
Property valuation methods

Common Study Mistakes to Avoid:

Rushing through course material
Skipping practice exams
Insufficient focus on California-specific content
Poor time management during actual exam
Not reading questions completely

Success Timeline by Background

Different professional backgrounds may influence your licensing timeline and approach:

Sales Professionals

Potential advantages: Strong communication skills, understanding of commission-based income, experience with client relationships.

Teachers and Educators

Potential advantages: Strong study habits, excellent presentation skills, patience with detailed processes.

Military and Veterans

Potential advantages: Discipline, reliability, understanding of relocation, potential access to education benefits.
Special considerations: Many schools offer military discounts, and some programs accept GI Bill benefits.

Career Changers

Considerations: May need more time for industry concepts, but transferable skills and a fresh perspective are valuable.

Individual results vary regardless of background. Success depends on dedication, study habits, and commitment to learning.

California Real Estate Market Context

Market Characteristics

California’s real estate market includes:

Diverse regional markets with varying price points
High property values in coastal and urban areas
Active luxury and investment property markets
Strong demand in many areas

Opportunities for New Agents

Potential specialization areas:

First-time home buyers
Military and veteran clients (VA loans)
Corporate relocations
Investment properties
New construction sales

Market conditions change regularly. Stay informed through local MLS data, market reports, and industry publications.

California-Specific Requirements

Mandatory Disclosures

California has extensive disclosure requirements. Key areas include:

Natural Hazard Disclosures: Earthquake, flood, fire, etc.
Transfer Disclosure Statement: Property condition.
Lead-Based Paint: For homes built before 1978.
Megan’s Law Database: Sex offender information.
Special Assessments: Mello-Roos and other district taxes.
HOA Information: For properties in homeowners associations.

Agency Relationships

California law requires clear disclosure of agency relationships (Seller’s Agent, Buyer’s Agent, Dual Agent).

Disclosure requirements and agency laws are complex. Proper training and broker guidance are essential.

Getting Started – Action Steps

Immediate Next Steps: Research schools, verify DRE requirements, and enroll in your first course.
During Your Education: Stay engaged, use school support, and start networking.
Preparing for Career Launch: Research brokerages, consider your target market, and prepare for interviews.

Continuing Education and License Maintenance

Renewal Requirements

California real estate licenses must be renewed every 4 years with 45 hours of continuing education. Required topics may include:

Consumer protection
Agency relationships
Fair housing
Ethics and professional standards

Check the California DRE website for current continuing education requirements.

Professional Development

Consider ongoing education in market specializations, technology, and legal updates.

Resources and Support

Official Sources: California Department of Real Estate (dre.ca.gov), California Association of Realtors, PSI Services.

Industry Publications: Stay informed through real estate industry news and local market reports.

Important Disclaimers

Accuracy Notice: Requirements, fees, and market conditions change. Always verify information with official sources like the California DRE.
Educational Purpose: This is for informational purposes only and is not legal or professional advice.
Market Information: Market data and income projections vary significantly. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results.
School Information: School offerings change. Contact them directly for current details.

Last updated: July 2025. For the most current information, always check official sources.

Ready to get started? Research approved schools, verify current requirements, and take the first step toward your California real estate career. For personalized guidance based on your specific situation, consider using our AI Real Estate Career Planner.