License guide

How to get a California real estate license

California licenses real estate salespersons through the Department of Real Estate (DRE). Here is the path in plain steps, checked against the DRE in October 2026.

Step by step

Meet the basics
You must be at least 18 to be issued a license. Applicants must be honest and truthful, and a criminal conviction may lead to denial. Out-of-state applicants follow the DRE's out-of-state rules.
Finish three college-level courses
Complete Real Estate Principles, Real Estate Practice and one more course from the DRE list (for example Finance, Appraisal, Legal Aspects or Property Management). Each DRE-approved course is at least 45 hours. Practice courses include implicit bias and fair housing, with a role-play component.
Pass the state exam
The salesperson exam is 150 multiple choice questions in 3 hours. You need at least 70% to pass.
Apply for the license
After you pass, submit the license application to the DRE for approval.
Work under a responsible broker
You can hold a salesperson license without a broker, but you cannot do acts that require a license until a responsible broker supervises you.

Keeping your license

Licenses are issued for 4 years. You can renew up to 90 days before expiration, online through eLicensing.
45 hours of DRE-approved continuing education each renewal, including at least 18 hours of consumer protection.
First renewal for salespersons: 3-hour courses in ethics, agency, trust fund handling, risk management and fair housing (with an interactive part), plus 2 hours of implicit bias training. Later renewals can use one 9-hour survey course for the required subjects.

Renewal and CE rules

Questions

Can I use continuing education courses to qualify?

No. The DRE says continuing education does not satisfy the college-level course requirement for the exam.

Are lawyers exempt from the courses?

Members of the California State Bar are exempt from the college-level course requirement, but still take the exam.

Do I need a website on day one?

No, but a simple page with your photo, brokerage and contact info helps clients find you. Property Landing Pages has a free plan with one listing page and an agent site.