Licensing Requirements

Select your state below to inspect the mandatory pre-licensing course hours, exam providers, passing thresholds, fees, and reciprocity rules.

State Profile

California Requirements

Required Pre-Licensing Hours

135 Hours

Exam Passing Score

70%

State License Application Fee

$245

Minimum Age Limit

18 Years Old

Testing Exam Provider:

California DRE

Continuing Education (CE):

45 hours every 4 years

Sponsoring Brokerage Required:

Yes, you must align with an active sponsoring broker to activate your license.

Reciprocity details

Can I transfer my license to other states?

Does not offer direct reciprocity. Out-of-state agents must complete California pre-licensing education and pass the exam.

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Your Roadmap to Licensure

Follow these standard phases to secure your real estate credentials.

1

Pre-Licensing Coursework

Register with a state-approved school and complete the mandatory hours of Principles, Practice, and Contract law.

2

Background Checks

Schedule digital fingerprint submissions to run state and federal clearances, proving good moral character.

3

Pass Exam & Sponsor

Schedule and pass the National & State portions of the Pearson VUE or PSI exam, then affiliate with a sponsoring broker.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a license if I have a criminal record?

Most state commissions evaluate criminal records on a case-by-case basis. Felonies and financial misdemeanors (fraud, embezzlement) are heavily scrutinized. You should disclose all history honestly and may need to file a Fitness Determination form before enrolling in classes.

How long does it take to obtain a license?

For most self-motivated candidates, the timeline is 2 to 5 months. Online self-paced education courses can be finished in a few weeks, while scheduling fingerprints, state processing times, and exam scheduling take another 3 to 6 weeks.

Can I complete my education online?

Yes, almost all states allow and approve pre-licensing education to be completed online via self-paced slides or live webinars, provided the school is certified by the state's regulatory body.