Application Fee
See board websiteVerified by CA Board of Business
Real Estate Broker Licensing in California
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for real estate broker in California, including See board website and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Real Estate Broker in California
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See board website
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Industrial Relations • Producer Licensing Bureau
- Current Filing Fee
See board website
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$82,050 median (14% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#9 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet California eligibility requirements for Real Estate Broker licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required state examinations.
- 4. Submit your application to the Department of Industrial Relations~Producer Licensing Bureau.
Salary Insights in California
With a median salary of 82,050, Real Estate Brokers in California earn 14% above the national median of 72280. California ranks #9 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$82,050Hourly estimate
$39.4514% above national median
Difference: +$9,770
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationReal Estate Broker Salary Ranking
#9 of 50 statesfor Real Estate Broker median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Iowa | 116,920 |
| #2 | Massachusetts | 112,180 |
| #3 | New York | 94,170 |
| #4 | New Jersey | 92,890 |
| #5 | Connecticut | 90,910 |
Nearby States Comparison
Real Estate Broker licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $82,050 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Oregon | $70,860 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Nevada | $86,730 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arizona | $54,460 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Nevada | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arizona | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board.
Official Licensing Agency
Department of Industrial Relations • Producer Licensing Bureau
320 Capitol Mall, Sacramento, CA, 95814-4309
Phone: 8009679331
Related Careers in California
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $105,840 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $96,360 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $118,450 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $128,650 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Real Estate Broker in California?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical Real Estate Broker salary in California?
The median annual salary for Real Estate Brokers in California is 82,050. Salaries range from 45480 (10th percentile) to 199010 (90th percentile).
How does the Real Estate Broker salary in California compare to the national average?
Real Estate Brokers in California earn 14% above the national median of 72280, with a state median of 82,050.
How many Real Estate Brokers work in California?
California employs approximately 7250 Real Estate Brokers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Real Estate Broker license to California from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board.
Who is the licensing agency for Real Estate Brokers in California?
The licensing agency is Department of Industrial Relations / Producer Licensing Bureau. Review agency details at http://www.insurance.ca.gov/0200-industry/0200-prod-licensing/0400-other-info/0800-questions-answers/education/continuing-ed/email.cfm.