Wondering how to get a real estate license in California as easily as possible? Fortunately, the requirements for a California real estate license are easy to understand and becoming even simpler to execute these days with the addition of online learning.
In fact, the process is so simple that you can consider this article your lightning-fast guide for learning how to get a real estate license in California.
We’ll be covering things like:
- California real estate license requirements
- The California real estate exam application
- How long it takes to get a real estate license in California
- What score you need to pass the California real estate license exam
Plus, steps to take after you earn your California real estate license so you can start selling.
How to Get a Real Estate License In California
Step 1: Meet the California Department of Real Estate’s general requirements for obtaining a California Real Estate License
Before we get into how to get a real estate license in California, it’s important to note that you first must meet the state’s requirements to start the process.
According to the California Department of Real Estate, there are just two main requirements for an individual to get their California real estate license, which are:
- You must be at least 18 years old;
And,
- You must be honest and truthful. Conviction of a crime may result in the denial of a license. Failure to disclose any criminal violation or disciplinary action in an applicant’s entire history may also result in the denial of a license.
If you meet these requirements, you’ll get the green light to move onto the next step in the licensing process.
For more information, you can visit the California Department of Real Estate’s website here.
Step 2: Complete 135 hours of approved pre-licensing education
If you’re like most people wondering how to get a real estate license in California, you’re probably interested in the fastest way to complete your pre-licensing education.
These days, the quickest way to get a real estate license in California is to complete your 135 hours of pre-licensing courses online.
At Allied Real Estate School, we offer both self-paced and livestream options so you can choose the format that best fits your schedule and the way you like to learn.
One of the biggest benefits to completing your pre-licensing education online is that you’ll likely be able to fit it into your schedule even if you’re currently working full-time or part-time in another career.
Plus, even if you choose our self-paced option, we have live instructors ready to help you at all times if you have questions or need extra support.
In other words, while this step takes the longest in the process, you can speed it up by preparing for your California real estate exam online.
Free Guide: Learn how to launch a successful career in California real estate with this free guide.
Step 3: Complete your California real estate exam application
Congrats! Once you make it to this stage, you’re closer than ever to getting your real estate agent license in California.
When you’re ready to apply for your real estate salesperson exam in California, you’ll need to visit the California Department of Real Estate’s website and fill out their application form.
You’ll also need to prove you completed 135 hours of approved pre-licensing courses, so be ready with a copy of your transcripts to attach to your application.
Once you submit, the California Department of Real Estate will notify you if you’re eligible to take the California real estate exam.
Step 4: Submit your fingerprints for a quick background check
Every real estate license applicant in California is required to submit one set of fingerprints for a background check.
You can do this after you submit your exam application, or you can wait until after you pass your exam.
If you pass, you’ll get to move on to the next step!
Step #5: Pass the California Real Estate Licensing Exam with a score of at least 70%
Your California real estate licensing exam includes 150 multiple choice questions, with a time limit of 3 hours and 15 minutes.
If you complete your pre-licensing education with Allied Real Estate School, we offer a “Pass or Don’t Pay” guarantee. That means if you don’t pass the exam, you’ll get a full refund for the courses you took, no questions asked.
However, we’re able to offer this bold guarantee because our students consistently pass the exam, and we’re confident you will, too.
Step #6: If you pass the exam, you’ll need sponsorship from a licensed California broker
In California, licensed real estate agents must work under an independent broker or brokerage.
Fortunately, there are close to 100,000 active brokers in California, which means there are plenty to choose from.
At this stage, you’ll want to consider how you like to work, what your core values are, and how you’d like to be supported by your broker or brokerage since you’ll be spending lots of time with your sponsor.
Knowing your preferences here will help you pick the right place for you to start your real estate career. And of course, from here, you can start selling!
