From the glitz of Los Angeles to the luxury homes showcased on popular real estate reality shows like Selling Sunset and Million Dollar Listing, California’s real estate scene captures the imagination of aspiring agents across the country. But behind the glamour is a real opportunity to build a rewarding, flexible career. If you’re wondering how to break into the business, a common question arises: How long does it take to get a real estate license in California?
The answer depends on your schedule, learning preferences, and the time you can commit. This guide breaks down the timeline and options to help you take the first step toward your new career.
Key Takeaways
- Timeline Varies By Learning Format: Most students earn their real estate license in 2 to 3 months, depending on how quickly they complete each step of the process.
- Complete 135 Hours of Education: You must finish 135 hours of pre-licensing coursework through a provider approved by the California Department of Real Estate.
- Self-Paced Learning Is the Fastest Option: Students who choose self-paced online courses often finish faster, especially if they can dedicate consistent time to studying.
- Other Learning Formats Offer Support: Livestream and in-person classes provide structure and interaction but may take longer to complete.
- Plan Around Your Schedule and Goals: Choose the format that best fits your lifestyle, timeline, and learning style to stay on track toward getting licensed.
- Minimum Age Requirement Is 18: You must be at least 18 years old to apply for a real estate license in California, even if you complete the education beforehand.
How Long Does it Take to Get a Real Estate License in California?
In California, obtaining a real estate license is a process that demands dedication and commitment. Many aspiring California real estate agents transition from other full-time careers, meaning earning your California real estate license can take careful time management and planning.
One of the primary requirements in California is completing a 135-hour pre-licensing course from an approved institution. These educational hours lay the groundwork for understanding the principles, practices, and regulations of real estate and will prepare you for the California real estate salesperson exam.
California Real Estate License: Education Format Options
Aspiring real estate professionals have several options for fulfilling their pre-licensing education requirements. While each method offers its own advantages and considerations, there’s a game plan to fit almost any schedule, learning style, or budget.
1. Self-paced online learning
For those who value flexibility and autonomy, self-paced online learning is a popular choice. With this approach, students have the freedom to progress through the material at their own pace. This is ideal for individuals with busy schedules and numerous personal or family commitments.
High-quality online real estate schools offer interactive resources, including video lectures, practice exams, and downloadable materials, which enhance the learning experience and improve information retention.
If you’re looking for the fastest way to get a California real estate license, especially while transitioning away from another full-time career, self-paced online learning may be the quickest route.
With self-paced online learning, you can complete your learning and studying whenever it works for you. You can also work ahead or spend more time on specific courses and topics if you need to. Plus, you have the freedom to map out your own timeline. Since the 135-hour requirement is non-negotiable, it’s easy to work backward and map out a completion plan based on your existing responsibilities and schedule.
Ultimately, self-paced online learning is good for individuals with the following characteristics:
- Students who want to complete their California real estate license courses and exam prep around their full-time work schedule
- Students who prefer to work at their own pace and consider themselves “self-starters.”
- Individuals who wish to complete their 135 hours without having to wait for scheduled in-person or livestream class times
2. Livestream learning
Livestream learning, like online self-paced learning, is another quick and easy way to complete the pre-licensing course hours required to take the California real estate license exam. Livestream learning combines the convenience of online education with the structure and accountability of live instruction.
Through virtual classrooms, students engage in real-time lectures and discussions led by experienced instructors. This format fosters peer interaction and collaboration, creating a dynamic learning environment. Livestream sessions are scheduled at set times, providing participants with a sense of routine and consistency.
This option can be helpful for those who work another career with a traditional nine-to-five schedule, as livestream classes are typically in the evening. Livestream sessions usually take around 2 1/2 months to complete all 135 required hours.
This type of learning is a great choice for these types of students:
- Individuals who don’t want to add time to their day commuting to classes – or those who live far away from an in-person real estate school
- Students who need or want more accountability and real-time instruction
- Those who prefer a set schedule for learning
3. In-person learning
In-person learning remains a viable option for those who thrive in traditional classroom settings. Attending classes in person enables direct interaction with instructors and fellow students, facilitating deeper engagement and more opportunities for networking.
However, it’s important to note that the time commitment associated with commuting to and from class may impact overall efficiency. The time to completion will also vary based on the number of sessions held per week at the chosen school.
With this option, there is less control over when and how you learn, but it can be helpful for anyone who enjoys a traditional “school setting.” In-person learning is ideal for students with the following characteristics:
- Learn better in person
- Have more time to dedicate to real estate school
- Prefer a set schedule for learning
Which Learning Method is Best for You?
Choosing the right learning method is a personal decision that hinges on various factors, including your learning style and scheduling constraints. Consider the following questions to determine which approach aligns with your needs:
- Do you prefer the flexibility of self-paced learning, or do you thrive in a structured environment with live instruction?
- Are you comfortable navigating online platforms, or do you prefer the tangible experience of in-person classes?
- What’s your timeline for completing the pre-licensing education?
- How does each method fit into your schedule?
Ultimately, the best method is the one that empowers you to learn effectively and efficiently, setting you on the path toward obtaining your real estate license in California.
How Fast Can You Get Your Real Estate License in California?
You can get your real estate license in as soon as two months. Here are some factors that determine how long it takes and the fastest way to get a real estate license in California.
- Pre-Licensing Courses (1 month): You must complete 135 hours of coursework to get a real estate license in California. The courses can be taken in person, via live stream, or at your own pace online. Choosing self-paced courses is the fastest way to get a real estate license in any state. When you enroll in online pre-licensing courses, you can start learning immediately. Disciplined students can get through the material in about a month.
- Prepare for the Salesperson Exam (1 week): While taking the California licensing exam will take only a few hours, you must set aside time to study. Quality study materials will make this process easier and increase the likelihood of passing the test on your first attempt. (Check out Allied School’s Pass or Don’t Pay Guarantee!)
- Application (1 month): It takes time for the wheels of bureaucracy to turn. However, the California Department of Real Estate publishes processing times, so you know approximately how long it will take to process your application.
- Find a Sponsoring Broker (varies): You may already have a broker in mind who has agreed to work with you. However, if you don’t, you will want to spend time chatting with several brokerages to find the right fit.
Two to three months may feel like an eternity for those just starting out in real estate. However, setting realistic goals and timelines for obtaining a real estate license is important so you don’t become discouraged with the process.
FAQs: Length of Time to Become a Real Estate Agent in California
How long does it take to get a real estate license in California?
On average, it takes between 2 to 3 months to get a real estate license in California, depending on the learning method and schedule.
Can I get my California real estate license online?
Yes. Many students complete the required 135 hours of education online through self-paced or livestream courses.
What are the education requirements for a California real estate license?
You must complete 135 hours of pre-licensing education through a California Department of Real Estate (DRE)-approved provider.
What’s the fastest way to get a real estate license in California?
Self-paced online learning is typically the quickest option, as you control the timeline and can move through the material at your own speed.
How old do you have to be to become a real estate agent in California?
You can take real estate pre-licensing classes before graduating from high school or turning 18. However, you must be at least 18 years old to apply for a real estate license in California.
If you’re considering self-paced or livestream learning options, Allied Real Estate School offers comprehensive pre-licensing education programs designed to meet the diverse needs of aspiring real estate agents. With flexible scheduling, expert instruction, and a commitment to student success, Allied equips you with the tools and confidence to thrive in your real estate career.