How to Get Your Real Estate License in California
By Yvette Hitchens, CDEI, GSI, licensed California real estate broker and founder of The MH Trainer
A California real estate salesperson license lets you help people buy, sell, and lease property, including manufactured homes. The process is set by the California Department of Real Estate (DRE), and it comes down to four steps: complete your courses, pass the state exam, get fingerprinted, and join a broker. Here's how each step works.
Step 1: Complete 135 hours of prelicensing education
The DRE requires three college-level courses, each 45 hours:
- Real Estate Principles
- Real Estate Practice
- One elective from the DRE's approved list, such as Legal Aspects of Real Estate, Real Estate Finance, or Property Management
Each course ends with a final exam that you must pass. You can take all three online at your own pace.
View real estate prelicensing coursesStep 2: Pass the California salesperson exam
Once your courses are done, apply to take the state exam. It has 150 multiple-choice questions, you get about three hours, and you need 70% to pass. Exam prep makes a real difference, so plan for practice tests before exam day.
Step 3: Get fingerprinted and apply for your license
The DRE won't issue a license until it receives your fingerprint results, so complete Live Scan fingerprinting early. After you pass the exam, submit your salesperson license application with the fee within one year. Many applicants save time by filing the exam and license application together. Check dre.ca.gov for current forms and fees.
Step 4: Join a sponsoring broker
A salesperson can't work independently in California. You must be associated with an active, licensed broker before you can represent clients. Interview a few brokerages and ask about training, mentoring, and commission splits.
Selling manufactured homes with your real estate license
This is where many new agents leave money on the table. California real estate licensees can sell manufactured homes, including homes in mobilehome parks, but these sales follow their own rules: HCD registration and title transfers, park approval of buyers, and disclosures that don't apply to traditional homes. Agents who understand manufactured housing can serve a growing, affordable market that many others avoid.
Explore manufactured housing trainingFrequently asked questions
How long does it take to get a real estate license in California?
It depends on your pace. The coursework is 135 hours, followed by exam scheduling and license processing. Many students finish within a few months.
Do I need a college degree to become a real estate agent in California?
No. You need to be at least 18, complete the three required courses, and pass the state exam.
Can I take California real estate courses online?
Yes. The required prelicensing courses are available online through The CE Shop, so you can study on your own schedule.
Can a real estate agent sell manufactured homes in California?
Yes, California real estate licensees can sell manufactured homes, including homes in parks, as long as they follow the HCD registration and titling rules that apply to those sales.
Ready to start your real estate career?
Begin your California prelicensing courses online today.
Start your real estate coursesAffiliate has an agreement with The CE Shop to promote online course information to consumers and real estate licensees. Affiliate is not the developer of these courses and is simply providing a referral. All education is provided by The CE Shop and any questions regarding course content or course technology should be directed to The CE Shop.
Licensing requirements change. Always confirm current requirements with the California Department of Real Estate before you enroll or apply.