How to get a real estate license in San Francisco, CA
There is no separate San Francisco real estate license. Agents in San Francisco hold a California salesperson license from the California Department of Real Estate (DRE), the same as everywhere else in the state. Here is what that means locally, with the full steps in the California guide.
The California steps at a glance
- Meet the basics
- Finish three college-level courses
- Pass the state exam
- Apply for the license
- Work under a responsible broker
Full California guide · Renewal and CE rules
San Francisco by the numbers
- Active licensees
- 6,801
- Brokers
- 1,892
- Salespersons
- 4,909
- Brokerages they work with
- 688
- First licensed in the last 12 months
- 314
Source: California Department of Real Estate public license file (public record), as of October 23, 2026. Counted by the mailing address on file with the state. Active means Licensed or Licensed NBA (licensed, not currently working under a broker).
Picking a brokerage in San Francisco
The California guide explains when you need to work under a broker. Many new agents talk to a few local offices before they decide. These franchise offices list an address in San Francisco.
Offices in San Francisco
4 real estate franchise offices list an address in San Francisco: 2 Century 21 and 2 Coldwell Banker.
- CENTURY 21 Baldini Realty 4977 Mission Street, 94112 (415) 587-4212 · Office site
- CENTURY 21 Masters 2633 Ocean Avenue, 94132 (888) 862-1194 · Office site
- Coldwell Banker Realty 2001 Van Ness Ave Ste 300, 94109 (415) 474-1750 · Office site
- Coldwell Banker Realty 2380 Irving St, 94122 (415) 682-6666 · Office site
Source: All The Places (CC-0), from each brand's public office locator, as of October 18, 2026. Not affiliated and not a recommendation; confirm details with the office.
Agents and offices in San Francisco
Questions
Do I need a separate license to sell real estate in San Francisco?
Not for the real estate license itself: the California Department of Real Estate (DRE) issues it and it covers all of California. The city may have its own business license rules, so check with the city.
Where do I take the course if I live in San Francisco?
Any school approved by the California Department of Real Estate (DRE) works, in a classroom or online where the state allows it. Check the approval before you pay.
Nearby city guides: San Diego · Arcadia · Downey · Los Angeles · Long Beach · San Jose · Irvine · Sacramento
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Rules change, so always confirm with the official source.
Licensed already?
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