How to Become a Real Estate Agent in California
135 hours of pre-licensing education, then the California DRE exam. State fees come to $499, on top of a course starting at $139.
Requirements set by California Department of Real Estate (DRE).
The steps, in order
- 1
Check you're eligible
California requires you to be at least 18. Minimum education: None (must pass exam).
- 2
Complete 135 hours of pre-licensing education
California Department of Real Estate (DRE) requires 135 hours from an approved school before you can sit the exam.
- 3
Pass the California DRE licensing exam
California uses California DRE. The exam is 150 questions. The exam fee is $100.
- 4
Submit fingerprints and a background check
California charges $49 for fingerprinting and the background check.
- 5
Apply for your license
The application fee is $350, paid to California Department of Real Estate (DRE).
- 6
Keep the license current
California requires 45 hours of continuing education every 4 years to renew.
Next steps
California Real Estate License FAQ
How many hours of real estate school does California require? ▾
California Department of Real Estate (DRE) requires 135 hours of approved pre-licensing education before you can sit the licensing exam.
How much does a California real estate license cost? ▾
California charges $499 in state fees: $100 exam fee, $350 application fee, $49 fingerprinting. Your course is the other half of the cost and is priced by the school, not the state.
What are the requirements to get a real estate license in California? ▾
You must be at least 18 and have: None (must pass exam), complete 135 hours of pre-licensing education, and pass the California DRE licensing exam.
What is on the California real estate exam? ▾
California uses California DRE to administer its real estate licensing exam.