California licensing guide
A Clear View of
The Road Ahead.
Start with the education requirements, then follow the California Department of Real Estate application and examination process.
Licensing Made Easy
Watch the official California Department of Real Estate guide to the licensing process.
Complete Your Education
Study Real Estate Principles, Real Estate Practice, and an approved elective.
Apply and Prepare
Follow the DRE application process and build a focused exam study plan.
Pass the State Exam
Meet the examination and licensing requirements, then begin your next chapter.
Know the Education Requirements
DRE lists Real Estate Principles, Real Estate Practice, and an approved elective as the required college-level coursework for most salesperson applicants. Legal Aspects of Real Estate is one of the listed electives.
Qualifying Real Estate Practice coursework must include the required fair housing and implicit bias components, including interactive participation.
You must be at least 18 to be issued a license. Additional eligibility and application requirements apply.
Application Steps and Supporting Documents
Play Video Requirements to Obtain Your California Salesperson License
1. Must be at least 18 years of age.
2. Register for and complete 135 hours of required education.In order to apply for the California Real Estate License Exam, the state requires
you to complete 135 hours of DRE-approved college level real estate courses. We offer two education options that fulfill the 135-hour requirement.
3. Apply for your Salesperson Exam/License Application, including fingerprinting and background check.
4. Take the California Salesperson License Exam.To pass the California Salesperson License Exam you will need a score of 70% or better.
Once you have completed your required education, you can apply for your license exam.
How to Apply for Real Estate License Combined Salesperson Exam and License Application Process
Individuals may apply and pay for their real estate salesperson examination and license at the same time by submitting one application form, Salesperson Exam/License Application (RE 435) , and both the exam and licensee fees. See Requirements to Apply for a Real Estate Salesperson License.
Once submitted, the fee may not be refunded or transferred to another application. The applicant must successfully pass the examination within two years of the date the application is filed. If those steps are not completed within the two-year time limit, the application and fee will lapse.
Examination candidates who currently have a valid examination application on file can submit the appropriate combined form and the license fee to initiate the review of their license application.
First Time Applicants Must Submit:
Applicants must also be fingerprinted using a Live Scan Service Request Form (RE 237) and Live Scan service provider.
Applicants may get their fingerprints taken at the time they submit their Examination/License application or any time thereafter, however, results from the fingerprint process must still be received before a real estate license can be issued.
Fingerprint processing fees are nonrefundable under any circumstances, including failure to qualify by examination for a license.
Out-of-state applicants must also submit a completed and notarized irrevocable Consent to Service of Process (RE 234) . See Out-of-State Applicants for further information.
Successful completion of three college-level courses is required to qualify for a real estate salesperson examination.
Missing requirements may be submitted anytime within a two year period following DRE receipt of a combination application and fee. Additionally, if a significant period of time elapses between the time the examination/license application is filed and the date the examinee passes the test, the DRE will require a written update of pertinent information before the license can be issued.
What to Expect on Exam Day - California Department of Real Estate
CES Real Estate School is your trusted partner for real estate licensing in California. We provide comprehensive education and resources to help you earn your license. With our expert guidance, you can meet the 135-hour education requirement and prepare for the California Real Estate License Exam. Whether you're starting your career or expanding your opportunities, our support ensures a smooth journey to obtaining your real estate licensing. Enroll today and take the first step toward your real estate career!
Salesperson Exam/License Application (RE 435)
Requirements to Apply for a Real Estate Salesperson License
Live Scan Service Request Form (RE 237)