How to get a real estate license in San Jose, CA
There is no separate San Jose real estate license. Agents in San Jose 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 Jose by the numbers
- Active licensees
- 7,935
- Brokers
- 1,728
- Salespersons
- 6,207
- Brokerages they work with
- 851
- First licensed in the last 12 months
- 332
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 Jose
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 Jose.
Offices in San Jose
3 real estate franchise offices list an address in San Jose: 2 Century 21 and 1 Coldwell Banker.
- CENTURY 21 Anew Realty 2784 S Bascom Avenue, 95124 (408) 859-7539 · Office site
- CENTURY 21 Masters 1096 Blossom Hill Rd, 95123 (888) 862-1194 · Office site
- Coldwell Banker Realty 1712 Meridian Ave, 95125 (408) 723-3300 · 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 Jose
Questions
Do I need a separate license to sell real estate in San Jose?
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 Jose?
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: Morgan Hill · Los Gatos · Cupertino · Palo Alto · Los Altos · Saratoga · Gilroy · Sunnyvale
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Rules change, so always confirm with the official source.
Licensed already?
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