A Rundown of Getting A California Real Estate License

California is one of the hottest real estate markets in the country and being an agent in this field can be a very rewarding career.

In this post, we will take a detailed look at what it takes to get a California real estate license.

Fulfilling basic eligibility criteria

You must be a citizen of the USA, at least 18 years old, and a resident of California to apply for a real estate license. Legally admitted aliens can also apply but they must have working rights in the country.

Completing pre-licensing education

Real estate agent aspirants must complete 135 hours of pre-licensing education to be eligible to sit for the licensing exam and get a license. This is established by the Department of Real Estate (DRE), the authority that controls the real estate industry in the state including the issuing of licenses. Any coursework that you select must have the approval of the DRE.

Click here to read more about how to get a California real estate license.

The 135 hours of pre-licensing education is divided into three modules of 45 hours each. They are:

·        Principles of Real Estate

·        Practice of Real Estate

·        One Elective course.

The Elective course must be chosen from the options provided by the DRE. They are given below.         

·        Real Estate Finance

·        Real Estate Appraisal

·        Legal Aspects of Real Estate

·        Real Estate Economics

·        Real Estate Investments

The full coursework may be taken online or from a classroom environment from one of the many state-approved schools. However, online courses are typically the preferred option as they allow you to study at your convenience and schedule. One of the top course providers offering online learning courses is RealEstateU. Their courses are among the most affordable in this field.

Submit fingerprints for verification

This is required to verify whether you have any records of criminal activities or felonies. Real estate agents are expected to maintain high ethical standards and verification of fingerprints is the most effective way to do so.

Apply for a California real estate license

Apply online to the DRE to schedule the licensing exam and apply for a license. The fee to appear for the exam is $245. Along with the application, attach proof of having completed the pre-licensing coursework and the fingerprint fitness certificate. You will be given a date for the exam at a physical center where the exam will be held online.

Appear for the licensing exam and pass it

It is the most important part of getting a California real estate license. After you complete the exam, the results will be informed to you in a pass/fail format. If you pass the exam, a license will be issued.

Find a sponsoring broker

You must now work under a broker who will mentor you at the start of your career.

Your California real estate license will now be activated to start your career in this industry.