How to Get a Real Estate License in California (CA)

Looking for a career change in 2025? In this article, we’ll show you how to become a real estate agent in California — taking you through the process step-by-step, detailing the costs, and sharing the best schools to help you get started. You’ll begin by completing 135 California real estate course hours at an accredited California real estate school.

To be eligible for a California real estate license, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Be a California resident or apply for an out-of-state license
• Pass a criminal background check

Quick Facts: California real estate licensing

How to get a real estate license in California in 5 Steps

Below, we outline the five simple steps to getting your California real estate license. Please note that you can combine your application to take the California real estate exam with your application for a California real estate license into one step using the License Combo Application, if you wish. Read on to learn more.

Step 1. Complete 135 hours of prelicensing education

Estimated cost: $139 to $500

To be eligible to take the California real estate license exam, you need to successfully complete three 45-hour real estate classes at an approved school. These three accredited courses total 135 hours of study. You’ll need to pass a proctored final exam for each course before moving on to the state exam. Required courses include:

• California Real Estate Principles (45 hours)
• California Real Estate Practices (45 hours)
• One elective course (45 hours)

The cost of California real estate courses starts at just $139. Online courses tend to be the most budget-friendly and convenient. You can save 30% using our promo code HW30 at The CE Shop or promo code HousingWire30 at Colibri Real Estate Education.

Once you complete all three required courses, you’ll have the proof of completion certificates that the DRE requires to schedule your California state real estate exam.

Step 2. Pass the California real estate licensing exam

Cost: $60

You’ll need to complete the state’s application form and submit a $60 application fee along with proof that you’ve completed your coursework in order to take the California real estate exam. The exam takes three hours and is comprised of 150 questions. A passing grade is 70%. Don’t be surprised (or worried) if the review process takes two to six weeks.  

If you’re completing the application for the exam only, you can apply online or complete the Salesperson Examination Application (RE 400A) form. If you’re filling out the combined application to take both the exam and obtain a license, then you can complete the Salesperson Exam/ License Application (RE 435).

After the DRE approves your exam application, you’re ready to schedule your licensing exam. You can use the eLicensing online system to select from available exam dates and sites.

Step 3. Pass a background check & complete biometrics

Cost: $49

After you’ve passed the California real estate exam, you’ll have to pass a live scan background check that includes fingerprinting to complete your licensing application. This background check will identify any criminal history and help the DRE determine your eligibility to become a real estate agent in California. If you have a criminal history, your best option is to contact the DRE directly and be forthcoming about your history. See the DRE’s fingerprint requirements for additional details about your biometrics appointment.

Step 4. Find a broker to hire you

By law, you must work under a licensed broker’s supervision if you plan to practice as a licensed real estate in California. You can get a real estate license, but without a sponsoring broker, you’re not permitted to provide any real estate services to clients. Check out our in-depth review of the best big brokerages to work for, linked below.

Step 5. Complete your California real estate licensing application

Cost: $245

You’ve passed your real estate licensing exam and chosen a sponsoring brokerage. What’s next?

If you didn’t file a License Combo Application earlier in the process, then you will be sent a Salesperson License Application (RE 202). You’re ready to complete it and submit it to the DRE for approval. This form must be completed and returned along with the appropriate fee within one year of passing the California exam.

Just download your license application from the DRE’s eLicensing online system. When you submit the completed application, you’ll also be expected to include your Live Scan fingerprinting results completed in step three. A license cannot be issued until DRE receives your biometric information.

The DRE will notify you when your application has been approved and your official license certificate is available online. To print your certificate, you’ll log onto your free eLicensing account and choose the option to print your license certificate from the menu. 

Your last step? Frame your certificate and display it proudly! 

California real estate schools: Our top picks

Your California real estate course should not only help you prepare for the state exam, it should also set you up for success as a newly licensed agent in California. Check out our top picks for California real estate schools below.

FAQs: How to get a real estate license in California

Now that you’ve learned how to get a real estate license in California, you’re ready to launch your real estate career. Still trying to decide if real estate is right for you? Need more details about the process? We answer many common questions for prospective and new real estate agents in California.

The full picture: How to get a real estate license in California

Whether it’s info on how to get a real estate license in California or the latest industry news, we’re here to guide you through every phase of your real estate career and help you make informed, advised decisions. We provide the most up-to-date information and insights to help you succeed.