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CaliforniaCalifornia Department of Real Estate-Approved Pre-Licensing

Get Your California
Real Estate License

California requires 135 hours of pre-licensing education before you can sit for the state exam.

135 Hours RequiredCA State Exam RequiredCourses 100% OnlineCompare Prices Below
Compare Courses

CA Licensing

135

pre-license hours

California regulated
CA state exam required
Courses 100% online
Compare prices below

How to Get a California Real Estate License

5 steps from zero to licensed Salesperson in California.

1

Complete 135 Hours

California Department of Real Estate-approved pre-license course

2

Apply with CA

Online application plus background check and state fee

3

Pass State Exam

PSI Services: 150 questions, 70% to pass, $60 fee

4

Find a Broker

Activate license under a licensed CA broker

✓

You're Licensed!

Start selling, renew every 4 yrs with 45hr CE

California Pre-Licensing Course Comparison

All prices for the 135-hour California Salesperson pre-licensing package.

The CE Shop

★★★★★
4.5/5, 8,751 reviews (Trustpilot)
$139–$435
OnlineLive Webinar
All 50 States
DetailsStart Now →

Colibri Real Estate

Not rated
$199–$459
OnlineLive Webinar
Most Formats
DetailsStart Now →

Kaplan Real Estate

★★★★★
4.7/5, 1,488 reviews (Trustpilot)
$449–$699
OnlineLive Webinar
Exam Prep
DetailsStart Now →

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California License, Frequently Asked Questions

How many hours for a California real estate license?
California requires 135 hours of California Department of Real Estate-approved pre-licensing education as a Salesperson course. Compare providers above for current pricing and formats.
What is the California real estate exam like?
The California real estate exam is administered by PSI Services. Details: 150 questions, 70% to pass, $60 fee.
What does it cost to get a California real estate license?
Pre-licensing course prices start at $139 depending on provider and package. Add the state application fee, exam fee, and fingerprinting for your total all-in cost. Compare providers above for current pricing.
How long does California license approval take?
After passing the exam, the California Department of Real Estate typically processes license applications within 10–14 business days. The background check is usually the rate-limiting step. Starting your application before you take the exam can save time.

Launch your California real estate career.

135 hours online, finish in 3–6 weeks of focused study.

Start Pre-Licensing