How to get a real estate license in Santa Monica, CA
There is no separate Santa Monica real estate license. Agents in Santa Monica 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
Santa Monica by the numbers
- Active licensees
- 1,917
- Brokers
- 592
- Salespersons
- 1,325
- Brokerages they work with
- 312
- First licensed in the last 12 months
- 72
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 Santa Monica
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 Santa Monica.
Offices in Santa Monica
3 real estate franchise offices list an address in Santa Monica: 3 Coldwell Banker.
- Coldwell Banker 1531 Montana 1531 Montana Ave, 90403 Office site
- Coldwell Banker Realty 1608 Montana Ave, 90403 (310) 458-0091 · Office site
- Coldwell Banker Realty 2740 Main St Fl 2, 90405 (424) 280-7400 · 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 Santa Monica
Questions
Do I need a separate license to sell real estate in Santa Monica?
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 Santa Monica?
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: Arcadia · Downey · Los Angeles · Long Beach · Lancaster · Cerritos · Glendora · Pasadena
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Rules change, so always confirm with the official source.
Licensed already?
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