Overview
There is no single national real estate licensing exam in the United States. Each state sets its own licence levels, pre-licence education, exam and fees through a state real estate commission or department. Most states license salespeople (or sales associates) and brokers separately.
This page uses California as a clearly labelled worked example, using the California Department of Real Estate (DRE). Rules, fees and exam formats in other states differ, so check your own state regulator before planning.
Who can apply (California example)
Applicants must complete statutory college-level real estate courses and supply official transcripts.
Applicants must be fingerprinted through a Live Scan provider. Out-of-state applicants may use fingerprint cards instead.
You cannot apply for the exam if you hold a licence that can still be renewed.
There is no California residency requirement. Out-of-state applicants must file a notarized consent to service of process, and California does not waive any requirement based on a licence from another state.
A salesperson must work under a licensed California broker to practise in California.
Exam pattern (California example)
| Licence level | Questions | Time | Pass mark |
|---|---|---|---|
| Salesperson | 150 multiple choice | 3 hours | At least 70% |
| Broker | 200 multiple choice | 4 hours | At least 75% |
Exams are taken on computer at DRE testing centres in five areas: Fresno, San Diego, Los Angeles, Oakland and Sacramento. You cannot choose a specific site within an area.
Marking and results
For computer-based exams, the result shows immediately when you finish. The department gives a breakdown of performance by area only to candidates who fail. Written confirmation usually follows within five business days.
Fees (California example)
As listed on the official site in 2026:
| Item | Salesperson | Broker |
|---|---|---|
| Exam fee (first attempt or retake) | $100 | $150 |
| Original licence fee | $350 | $450 |
| Combined exam and licence application | $450 | $600 |
| Fingerprint fee (California residents pay the Live Scan provider) | $49 | $49 |
On-time renewal costs 450 for a broker. Fees are non-refundable.
How to apply (California example)
Complete the required real estate courses. Approved courses are offered by community colleges, private vocational schools and university extension programmes. No more than two courses may be completed in any five-week period.
Submit the application online through the DRE eLicensing system, or by mail using the combined salesperson exam and licence application form, with transcripts and fees.
Complete Live Scan fingerprinting.
Once you are qualified, schedule an exam date through eLicensing (possible until 6:00 a.m. on the exam day) or wait for a scheduling notice by mail.
Bring one accepted photo ID: a current driver's licence, state ID card, passport, or US military ID.
After the exam
You may retake the exam as many times as needed within two years of your application filing date. After two years you must reapply and meet all requirements again. Wait for your result before applying to retake it, so you do not lose the fee.
Preparation tips
Find your state regulator first and confirm its pre-licence hour requirement and exam provider.
Ask your approved course provider about practice questions for the exam.
Bring valid photo ID that matches your application name.
Is there one US real estate exam?
No. Each state licenses real estate agents separately, so requirements and exams differ by state.
Does California accept a licence from another state?
No. California states it has no reciprocity with any other state, so out-of-state applicants must meet all of its requirements.
What score do I need in California?
At least 70% for the salesperson exam and at least 75% for the broker exam.
How many times can I retake the California exam?
As often as needed within two years of your application filing date.