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California Real Estate Agent License Requirements [2026]

Requirements, fees, and steps to get your real estate agent license in California. Last updated 2025-01-01. Source

State License
Required
Application Fee
$245
Bond Required
None
License Details
License Name Real Estate Salesperson License
Issuing Authority California Department of Real Estate
Exam Required Yes
Exam Type DRE State Exam (no national portion)
Bond Amount None
GL Insurance E&O insurance recommended
Workers Comp Required if employees
Initial Fee $245
Renewal Fee $245
Renewal Period Biennial
CE Required yes
CE Hours 45
Reciprocity States None
Experience Required 0
Financial Requirement None
Note: California requires 135 hours of pre-licensing education (3 courses) + passing DRE exam. No national portion — California uses its own state exam. $245 initial license fee. 45 CE hours per 4-year renewal.

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