Who regulates real estate licenses in California?

Real estate licensing in California is overseen by the California Department of Real Estate (DRE). This agency issues licenses, sets education requirements, and handles renewals and complaints.

How do I contact the DRE?

Phone: (877) 373-4542. Address: 1651 Exposition Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95815. Website: https://www.dre.ca.gov.

What license types does California issue?

California issues the following real estate license types: Salesperson, Broker. Each has its own education and experience requirements — confirm the current rules with the commission.

State Regulator

California Real Estate Commission

Who regulates your license in California, how to reach them, and where to verify official requirements. This is a free resource — not a course page.

About the California Department of Real Estate

Your California real estate license is issued and regulated by the California Department of Real Estate (DRE). This agency sets the education and exam requirements, processes applications and renewals, maintains the public license lookup, and enforces the rules that protect consumers. Click2CE is an education provider — for any official action (applying, renewing, filing a complaint, or verifying a license) you work directly with the DRE.

Regulator: California Department of Real Estate (DRE)

Address: 1651 Exposition Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95815

Phone: (877) 373-4542

Website: www.dre.ca.gov

License Types in California

Salesperson
Broker

Exam retake policy: You must wait 18 calendar days before retaking the exam. After failing 3 times, you may need additional education.

Official Resources & Portals

Links to the official DRE systems for applying, renewing, verifying a license, and scheduling your exam. Where a direct link is not yet listed, use the DRE website and verify the current process with the commission.

DRE Official WebsiteApplications, rules, and announcements Licensing application portalApply for a new real estate license License renewal portalRenew an existing license Candidate handbookExam content outline, rules, and scheduling info Forms & applicationsOfficial downloadable forms Approved schools listState-approved education providers License lookupVerify a license holder State exam schedulingAdministered by State

Fingerprinting & background check

A fingerprint-based background check is required for licensure in California. Processed through Live Scan fingerprinting through a California DOJ-approved provider (results to DOJ/FBI); ~$49 government fee ($32 DOJ + $17 FBI) plus a provider rolling fee. Confirm the current process and fees with the DRE.

Fingerprinting details

All California forms & official links California education hub

Requirements are summarized for general guidance and can change without notice. Always confirm the current rules, hours, fees, and deadlines directly with your state real estate commission before enrolling or renewing.

Verify directly with the state real estate commission before relying on this.

Last reviewed: June 25, 2026