How to Become a Real Estate Broker in California
Becoming a real estate broker in California takes education, an exam and an application. Here is the exact breakdown for California, sourced from the official board.
How do I become a real estate broker in California?
To become a real estate broker in California you must complete 360 classroom hours (8 courses) of approved broker education, pass the PSI state broker exam (national + state portions), meet the experience requirement (2 years full-time salesperson experience within the last 5 years), cover the fees (Application $60, license fee $300). Licensing is handled by California Department of Real Estate (DRE). Confirm current rules with the official board before applying.
Requirements at a glance
- Pre-licensing education
- 360 classroom hours (8 courses) of approved broker education
- Exam requirements
- PSI state broker exam (national + state portions)
- Experience
- 2 years full-time salesperson experience within the last 5 years
- Fees & costs
- Application $60, license fee $300
- Reciprocity
- No formal reciprocity; out-of-state experience may be credited
- Renewal
- 4-year cycle, 45 hours CE including 3 hours ethics
Exam prep for the Real Estate Broker license exam
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FAQ
What are the education requirements to become a real estate broker in California?
360 classroom hours (8 courses) of approved broker education. This is the requirement published by the state.
What exam do I take to become a real estate broker in California?
You take the PSI state broker exam (national + state portions). Sign up through the approved testing vendor used by the state.
How much does a real estate broker license cost in California?
Application $60, license fee $300. Application, education and exam fees are set by the state board and can change.
How often do I renew my real estate broker license in California?
4-year cycle, 45 hours CE including 3 hours ethics.
All states for this license
Licensing rules can change. This page is a summary, not legal advice. Always confirm current requirements with the official California Department of Real Estate (DRE) before applying.