Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements
Before you begin the process, make sure you meet the minimum eligibility requirements :
- Be at least 18 years old
- Hold a valid California real estate salesperson license (or equivalent from another state)
- Have at least two years of full-time real estate experience within the last five years as a licensed salesperson
- Be of good moral character (as determined by the DRE)
Step 2: Complete the Required Education
To qualify for a broker license, you must complete eight college-level real estate courses , each approved by the California Department of Real Estate (DRE) :
- Real Estate Principles
- Real Estate Practices
- Legal Aspects of Real Estate
- Escrow, Closing, and Settlement Procedures
- Income Approach to Property Valuation
- Real Estate Office Administration
- Finance in Real Estate
- Real Estate Appraisal
These courses are typically offered online or in-person through accredited institutions like Kaplan Real Estate Education , Colibri Real Estate , or community colleges.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Once you’ve completed your education and have the required experience, submit your Broker License Application (RE 201) to the DRE.
You’ll also need to include:
- Official transcripts showing completion of the eight required courses
- Proof of real estate experience (log sheet or employer verification)
- Fingerprint clearance (LiveScan)
- Application fee ($305 as of 2025)
Step 4: Pass the California Real Estate Broker Exam
After your application is approved, schedule and pass the California Real Estate Broker Exam .
The exam includes:
- 150 multiple-choice questions
- Time limit: 3 hours and 15 minutes
- Passing score: 75% or higher
Topics covered include real estate law, contracts, finance, property management, agency relationships, and ethics.
Step 5: Get E&O Insurance (Optional but Recommended)
While not mandatory, many brokers choose to obtain Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance to protect themselves against legal claims related to professional services.
Step 6: Start Your Brokerage or Join an Existing One
Once licensed, you can either:
- Open your own real estate brokerage
- Or work under another broker-owner
If starting your own office, you’ll need to register your business and comply with all DRE regulations.
FAQs
Q: How long does it take to get a California broker license?
A: The entire process can take 6–12 months , depending on how quickly you complete the coursework and schedule the exam.
Q: Can I skip the experience requirement if I have a degree in real estate?
A: No, California requires two years of full-time real estate experience regardless of education level.
Q: What’s the difference between a real estate salesperson and a broker?
A: Brokers can work independently, hire agents, and manage their own brokerage, while salespersons must work under a broker.
Q: Do I need to renew my broker license?
A: Yes, licenses must be renewed every four years , and continuing education is required.
Q: Is the broker exam harder than the salesperson exam?
A: Yes, it covers more complex topics and assumes a deeper understanding of real estate operations and law.
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