How much does a Real Estate Salesperson license cost in California?

The estimated total cost is $354, including application fees, exam fees ($60), and education costs.

How long does it take to get a Real Estate Salesperson license in California?

The process typically takes 3-6 months, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.

What exam do I need for a Real Estate Salesperson license in California?

You need to pass the California Real Estate Salesperson Exam (DRE). N/A

Real Estate Salesperson License in California

To get a real estate license in California, you must complete 135 hours of pre-licensing education (three college-level courses), pass the DRE exam ($60), and pay $245 for your license plus $49 for fingerprint processing — approximately $354 total. California has the highest education requirement among major states. The process takes 3-6 months.

Education Required: 135 hours
Exam: California Real Estate Salesperson Exam (DRE)
Total Cost: $354 (est.)
Timeline: 3-6 months
Renewal: Every 4 years

Requirements

Real Estate Salesperson license in California

gold

Veterans Benefits

Expedited processing is available for military and spouses

Estimated Costs Est.

Application Fee: $245
Exam Fee: $60
Renewal Fee: $245
Total Estimated Cost: $354

Licensing Agency

Department of Real Estate~Licensing

Website 8773734542 Email

Cost Breakdown

Estimated costs for getting your Real Estate Salesperson license in California. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.

Application Fee

$245

Exam Fee

$60

Renewal Fee

$245

Total Estimated Cost

$354

Education / School Cost

Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program

Include first renewal fee ($245)

Application FeeEst.$245

Exam FeeEst.$60

Total Estimated Cost$305

Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the California licensing board.

Real Estate Salesperson Salary in California

Entry Level

$38,880

Median

$62,420

Experienced

$116,140

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.

How to Get Licensed

Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Real Estate Salesperson in California.

1

Submit Your Application

File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$245.
2

Receive Your License

Processing typically takes 3-6 months.

Real Estate Salesperson Licensing in California: What to Know

California explicitly lists its fees: Exam $60, License $245, and Fingerprint processing $49. The state requires completion of three college-level courses (135 hours) in specified areas including Real Estate Principles, Real Estate Practice, and one elective. Exams are offered daily in Sacramento, Fresno, Oakland, Los Angeles, and San Diego. California has one of the largest real estate markets in the world and the highest licensing education requirements among major states. The 4-year renewal cycle is longer than most states. The DRE (Department of Real Estate) administers its own exam rather than using third-party providers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Real Estate Salesperson license cost in California?: The estimated total cost is $354, including application fees, exam fees ($60), and education costs.
How long does it take to get a Real Estate Salesperson license in California?: The process typically takes 3-6 months, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
What exam do I need for a Real Estate Salesperson license in California?: You need to pass the California Real Estate Salesperson Exam (DRE). N/A