Have you always dreamed of selling real estate in California? If you want to start a career as a real estate agent, there are a few steps you’ll need to follow.
The process of getting a real estate license is a little more involved than getting a driver’s license. However, once you get a California real estate license, you’re on your way to having a great career. If you’re ready to start the process, here’s a look at the necessary steps.
How to Become a California Real Estate Agent
Before you sign up for any classes, there are a couple of prerequisites you’ll need to meet. You must be a California resident and at least 18 years of age. You’ll also need to disclose any criminal history. This includes most misdemeanors. However, parking tickets and most moving violations typically don’t need to be disclosed.
Don’t fudge the truth—if you omit any criminal history, your license application may be denied by the state.
Complete 135 Hours of Classwork
Yes, 135 hours sounds like a lot, but the coursework is broken up into three blocks. Each block is 45 hours, making it seem a little more manageable.
Your coursework is as follows:
- Real Estate Principles (45 credit hours)
- Real Estate Practice (45 credit hours)
- 45 credit hours in an additional elective course as approved by the California Department of Real Estate.
Before enrolling in any real estate classes, make sure the school is accredited and approved by the state. You can take the classes online or in person.
Apply for and Pass the California Salesperson Exam
Okay, this exam covers what you’ve learned during the 135 hours of coursework.
You have options on which exam application you apply for. You can use the Salesperson Exam Application or the Combined Salesperson Exam and License Application. Go ahead and choose the combo exam. Your fees for the exam and license are included in one application, simplifying the process.
Be prepared to wait around 4 to 6 weeks for your exam application to process. Once it’s approved, you’ll get an exam schedule notice. Click on the eLicensing website to schedule the time and location of your exam.
The exam contains 150 multiple-choice questions, and you have three hours to complete the exam and must score at least 70% to receive a passing grade. If your grade is below 70%, you have one more chance to take the exam.
A quick tip. Take advantage of online study tools to help ensure you receive a passing grade. You only have two chances to pass the exam.
Find a Broker to Sponsor You
You’ve passed the Salesperson exam. Now, it’s time to find a sponsor. Your sponsor must be a licensed broker who’s active in the real estate industry.
Look for a real estate brokerage firm that offers a training program. This will help ensure they have the tools in place required for your training.
Your sponsor broker is your mentor. They are responsible for providing you with on-the-job training. This training is necessary to receive your real estate license.
Submit Your Real Estate License Application
You’re almost a licensed real estate agent! Only one more step to go. If your salesperson exam was the combo option, you’ve gotten part of the process out of the way.
The combo exam packet included your real estate license application and fees. So, all that’s left is to go through a background check and send in the application with the required documentation.
The required documentation includes your school transcripts, your background check information, and your license application. Oh, and don’t forget about getting fingerprinted; you’ll go through a live scan, and yes, this costs an additional fee.
After submitting your application, it’s time for you to sit back and wait for approval. The Department of Real Estate will review your application, issue approval, and send you a copy of your real estate license.
FAQs
How long does it take to get a California real estate license?
The time frame you have varies depending on a few factors, and you can complete the coursework in as little as 54 days. However, there’s still a waiting period for the exam appointment and license application review.
Can I get a California real estate license online?
While you can take the classes online, you must take the test at one of the five locations scattered across the state. The exam sites are in Fresno, Oakland, Sacramento, San Diego, and La Palma.
Become a Real Estate Agent in California Today!
Becoming a real estate agent can be a rewarding career and offers plenty of opportunities to grow as individuals and succeed in the industry.
While there is coursework, exams, and fees, most people find that it’s well worth the process. If you’re ready to become a real estate agent, start by enrolling in a state-approved school.
