How to Get Your Real Estate Salesperson License in California
Governing body, experience requirements, exam details, and step-by-step instructions for California. Last verified: February 2026.
Quick Facts
Hours Required
135 hrs pre-licensing
Exam
CA Real Estate Salesperson Exam
Fee Range
$60 app + $60 exam [VERIFY]
Governing Body
CA DRE
Requirements
California requires 135 hours of DRE-approved pre-licensing education: a 45-hour Real Estate Principles course, a 45-hour Real Estate Practice course, and one 45-hour elective. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. California does not require a separate background check fee — criminal history is reviewed as part of the application. Applicants must work under a licensed California real estate broker.
Steps to Apply
- 1
Complete 135 hours of DRE-approved pre-licensing education (Principles + Practice + one elective).
- 2
Submit a Salesperson Exam Application (RE 435) to the CA DRE with the $60 exam fee.
- 3
Receive an eligibility notification from the DRE (typically 4–8 weeks) and schedule your exam with PSI.
- 4
Pass the 150-question CA Real Estate Salesperson Exam with a score of 70% or higher.
- 5
Submit a Salesperson License Application (RE 202) with proof of exam passage and pay the $60 license fee.
- 6
Have your sponsoring licensed broker countersign your application.
- 7
Receive your California Real Estate Salesperson License (valid for 4 years, renewable).
Exam Details
The CA DRE Salesperson exam is administered by PSI at testing centers statewide. The exam contains 150 multiple-choice questions and must be completed in 3 hours 15 minutes. A score of 70% (105/150) is required to pass. Results are available immediately after the computer-based test.
Fees & Costs
Estimated total: $60 app + $60 exam [VERIFY]
The DRE application fee is $60 for a salesperson license. The examination fee is $60. If you take the exam and application together (combo), the total is $120. License issuance may require additional fees. [VERIFY current DRE fee schedule at dre.ca.gov]
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the California real estate salesperson exam?
The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions with a time limit of 3 hours and 15 minutes. A passing score of 70% (105 correct answers) is required.
Can I take the California real estate exam before finishing my courses?
No. You must complete all 135 hours of required pre-licensing education and have your course completion verified by the DRE before you can sit for the exam.
How long is a California real estate salesperson license valid?
The initial license is valid for 4 years. Renewal requires 45 hours of continuing education including mandatory topics such as implicit bias, fair housing, and ethics.
Does California have reciprocity with other states?
California does not have formal reciprocity agreements with other states. Out-of-state licensees must meet all California requirements including passing the CA state exam.
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