A real estate license in California legally authorizes real estate agents and brokers to buy and sell real estate properties in the state. The process of acquiring this CA real estate license entails a couple of steps including completing a 135-hour real estate course from an approved provider and passing the state exam.
However, there are more steps, and it is important that we discuss them here so that anyone who is considering how to become a real estate agent in California knows how to proceed.
Basic Requirements for a Real Estate License in California
Let’s start with the prerequisites for a real estate license in California.
· You must have attained a minimum age of 18 years old.
· You must have no criminal record.
· Complete a state-approved CA real estate license course.
· Pass a state real estate exam.
· Find a sponsoring broker.
It does not matter whether you have a real estate degree or not. The state law allows anyone with a high school diploma to apply as long as they meet the above qualifications. However, it is a big plus if you have a college or university diploma in this course. Next, we will discuss some of the important requirements for obtaining a real estate license in California in detail.
Complete a State-Approved Course
It is the obligation of the CDRE (California Department of Real Estate) to vet and approve applicants for real estate licenses. It also accredits institutions that offer the prequalification course as well as the state exam.
Therefore, if you want to complete the 135-hour real estate course, you must look for an accredited provider, preferably of an online course because it is more convenient. Any person who is looking for how to become a real estate agent in California can start by checking this useful reference to see different course packages.
The online course covers all the required topics to ensure that learners are equipped with the right skills not only to pass the exam but also to become successful holders of a real estate license in California.
Pass the State Exam for the Real Estate License in California
The online course for a real estate license in California prepares you for the exam on top of giving you relevant and current skills. If you check well, it contains exam preparation notes to make it easy for you to pass.
Before taking the exam, it is necessary to complete all the course hours and read the preparation notes carefully. Only book the exam when you are confident that you can handle it. If you ask anyone who knows how to get a real estate license in California, they will tell you how vital it is to study for this exam.
Find a Sponsoring Broker
Before you can apply for a real estate license in California, this step is very crucial. The state assumes that you are still new to real estate and need some sort of internship.
The sponsoring broker must be licensed; hence, you have a good opportunity to learn. It is also a sign that you are committed to learning. Finally, it is a requirement by the state of California to work under a licensed broker before obtaining a CA real estate license.
Screen Your Fingerprints
The last important step is to get your fingerprints scanned by the police department for a criminal record clearance. This process ensures that you have no legal cases that will hinder you from getting a real estate license in Los Angeles or anywhere else in California. Fortunately, it is a straightforward process that you can do right away through an online application.
Make the Application for a Real Estate License in California
When you have taken care of all these California real estate license requirements, you can now make the application. The CDRE will assess your online or physical application and vet your supporting documents, making sure that you qualify before issuing you the license.
Final Thoughts
Your license is permission to start practicing although there are some other steps such as continuing the learning process to stay updated with new developments in real estate, networking, and practicing with integrity to gain a reputation and succeed. By now, it is clear that you cannot practice without a real estate license in California, so the easiest path forward is to get everything in order and apply.
