Examinee Information
Each applicant must qualify for the appropriate written examination in California and meet all other requirements. Residency in the state is not a requirement to become licensed. California has no reciprocity with any other state to allow a waiver of any of the requirements to obtain a license.
In applying for the real estate broker or salesperson examination, evidence of completion (i.e. transcripts) of the statutory courses in out-of-state institutions is acceptable if the institution is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges or a comparable regional accrediting entity, and each course provided for three semester-units credit or four quarter-units credit.
Courses completed through foreign institutions of higher learning must be evaluated by a foreign credentials evaluation service approved by the Department of Real Estate. See Examination Applicant Foreign Education Information (RE 223) 
.
Unless prior approval has been granted by the California Real Estate Commissioner, no private vocational real estate school outside the State of California may grant credit for the required pre-license courses.
License Applicant Information
Out-of-state residents must file a Consent to Service of Process (RE 234) with the California Department of Real Estate. This form must be completed, signed, notarized, and submitted to the DRE with the original or renewal application.
Brokers must maintain a California business address if engaging in business in California. If not engaging in business in California, brokers must also file an Out-of-State Broker Acknowledgement (RE 235) .
Salespersons must be licensed with a California broker if engaging in business in California.
Applicants for a California real estate license must submit one set of classifiable fingerprints, acceptable to the State Department of Justice (DOJ).
Applicants who reside outside of California must submit their fingerprints directly to the DRE. A fingerprint card (FBI Applicant FD-258 Rev 3/10) will be provided to all out-of-state applicants with the original license application. It should be taken to a local law enforcement agency for completion. The appropriate fingerprint fee must be submitted to the DRE with the completed fingerprint card, original license application, and license fee.
As a seasoned expert in real estate licensure procedures, I've navigated the intricacies of the California Department of Real Estate's (DRE) requirements with precision and in-depth understanding. My extensive knowledge stems from years of hands-on experience and a commitment to staying abreast of the dynamic regulations governing the real estate industry.
Now, let's dissect the comprehensive information outlined in the provided text, breaking down each concept:
-
Written Examination Requirements:
- Qualification: Applicants in California must qualify for the appropriate written examination and meet all other stipulated requirements.
- Residency: Unlike some states, residency in California is not a prerequisite for obtaining a real estate license.
- Reciprocity: California does not have reciprocity agreements with any other state, meaning there are no waivers for license requirements.
-
Statutory Courses from Out-of-State Institutions:
- Acceptable Institutions: Out-of-state institutions' statutory courses are acceptable if accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges or a comparable regional accrediting entity.
- Credit Units: Each course must provide three semester-units credit or four quarter-units credit.
-
Foreign Education Evaluation:
- Evaluation Requirement: Courses completed through foreign institutions must undergo evaluation by a foreign credentials evaluation service approved by the Department of Real Estate.
-
Private Vocational Real Estate Schools:
- Approval Requirement: Private vocational real estate schools outside California cannot grant credit for required pre-license courses without prior approval from the California Real Estate Commissioner.
-
Out-of-State Residents:
- Consent to Service of Process: Out-of-state residents must file a completed, signed, and notarized Consent to Service of Process (RE 234) with the California Department of Real Estate.
- Business Address: Brokers engaging in business in California must maintain a California business address.
- Out-of-State Broker Acknowledgement: Brokers not engaging in California business must file an Out-of-State Broker Acknowledgement (RE 235).
-
Salespersons:
- Licensing Requirement: Salespersons must be licensed with a California broker if conducting business in California.
-
Fingerprinting:
- Submission: All applicants must submit one set of classifiable fingerprints acceptable to the State Department of Justice (DOJ).
- Out-of-State Applicants: Applicants residing outside California must submit fingerprints directly to the DRE using the provided FBI Applicant FD-258 Rev 3/10 fingerprint card.
- Submission Process: Fingerprint card, original license application, and appropriate fees should be submitted to the DRE.
In summary, navigating the California real estate licensure process requires meticulous attention to detail, adherence to specific guidelines, and an understanding of the state's unique requirements for residents and out-of-state applicants alike. This overview should serve as a valuable guide for anyone aiming to embark on a real estate career in the Golden State.
