Starting a career in real estate is an exciting step toward building financial independence, helping others achieve homeownership, and becoming a trusted professional in your community. The Greater Antelope Valley Association of REALTORS® (GAVAR) supports aspiring real estate professionals by providing guidance, resources, and education to help you begin your journey.

To practice real estate in California, individuals must obtain a California Real Estate License through the California Department of Real Estate (DRE). This process includes completing approved coursework, passing the state licensing exam, and meeting state eligibility requirements.

Whether you’re exploring a new career path or preparing to enter the real estate industry, this page will help you understand the steps required to earn your real estate license, connect with approved education providers, and start building a successful future in real estate within the Antelope Valley and beyond.

 

Renew Your California Real Estate License

Already licensed? Here’s how to renew your California real estate license.

California real estate licenses must be renewed every four years through the California Department of Real Estate (DRE). To maintain an active license, agents must complete 45 hours of continuing education (CE) from a DRE-approved provider.

As a member of the California Association of REALTORS® (C.A.R.), REALTORS® have access to a FREE 45-Hour Continuing Education package that fulfills the coursework required for license renewal. These courses meet DRE requirements for mandatory subjects such as ethics, fair housing, and consumer protection, while also helping REALTORS® stay current with industry regulations and best practices.

➡ Access the C.A.R. Free 45-Hour CE Package for License Renewal

How to Get YOUR Real Estate License in California

California Real Estate Licensing Paths:

Real Estate Salesperson License

1. Complete Pre-Licensing Coursework (135 Hours)

To qualify for a California Real Estate Salesperson License, applicants must complete 135 hours of approved pre-licensing education through a California Department of Real Estate (DRE) approved provider.

Recommended Real Estate Licensing Schools

Online Programs

Local In-Person Options

2. Apply for the California Real Estate Exam

Once coursework is completed, you must apply to take the California Real Estate Salesperson Exam through the California Department of Real Estate.

Helpful Resources:

3. Pass the State Exam

Applicants must pass the California real estate licensing exam with a score of 70% or higher.

4. Become a REALTOR®

After passing the exam and activating your license, you can begin your real estate career and apply to join your local association — such as the Greater Antelope Valley Association of REALTORS® (GAVAR) — to gain access to professional resources, MLS services, education, and networking opportunities.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Real Estate License in California?

Most individuals complete the process within 2 to 6 months. Many new agents finish in about 3–4 months.

Start Your Real Estate Career with GAVAR

After earning your California real estate license, joining your local REALTOR® association is an important step toward building a successful career. The Greater Antelope Valley Association of REALTORS® (GAVAR) provides the tools, education, and professional network that help new agents grow and succeed.

Real Estate Broker License

1. Meet Experience Requirements

Applicants must have at least two years of full-time licensed salesperson experience within the last five years (or equivalent experience in real estate related work).

2. Complete Broker-Level Education

The California DRE requires 8 college-level real estate courses including:

  • Real Estate Practice
  • Legal Aspects of Real Estate
  • Real Estate Finance
  • Real Estate Appraisal
  • Real Estate Economics
  • And additional elective courses

Recommended Real Estate Broker Schools

Online Programs

3. Apply for the California Broker Exam

Submit an application through the California Department of Real Estate (DRE) to schedule your broker licensing exam.

4. Pass the Broker Exam

Applicants must pass the California Real Estate Broker Exam with a score of 75% or higher.

5. Activate Your Broker License

Once approved, brokers can operate independently, open a brokerage, or manage agents.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Broker License in California?

Most people complete the broker path in 6–24 months depending on how quickly they meet the experience requirement and finish broker coursework + exam scheduling.