How many hours of pre-license education does California require for real estate agents?

3 hours for Salesperson Pre-License Education, as set by the California Department of Real Estate (DRE).

Is an exam required to get licensed in California?

Yes. In addition to the required education hours, California requires a licensing exam for one or more license classes.

Can I complete these hours online?

Yes. Our pre-license courses are delivered entirely online and self-paced, with a certificate of completion issued as soon as you finish.

How to get a Salesperson Pre-License Education license in California

The California Department of Real Estate (DRE) sets the education you must complete before it will license you. Here is the exact requirement, by license class.

California Department of Real Estate (DRE)

Required hours by license class

Salesperson Pre-License Education

3 required hours

A licensing exam is required in addition to these hours.

We have researched this requirement and are building the course now.

Source: California Department of Real Estate (DRE) · verified 2026-09-10

Common questions

How many hours of pre-license education does California require for real estate agents?: 3 hours for Salesperson Pre-License Education, as set by the California Department of Real Estate (DRE).
Is an exam required to get licensed in California?: Yes. In addition to the required education hours, California requires a licensing exam for one or more license classes.
Can I complete these hours online?: Yes. Our pre-license courses are delivered entirely online and self-paced, with a certificate of completion issued as soon as you finish.

Already licensed? This page covers getting your first license. If you already hold one, California real estate agents renewal requires 45 hours of continuing education — see California real estate agents continuing education.