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Independent comparisons of state-approved real estate schools Updated August 2026 · Verified against the California DRE
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California · 2026

Best online real estate schools in California

California requires 135 hours across three separate courses before you can sit the salesperson exam. Here are the schools worth considering, and the full DRE process.

By Joshin Joseph · Updated August 2026
The shortlist

Three schools, compared

All three hold California DRE approval for the required courses.

BEST FOR CALIFORNIA 01

The CE Shop

From $139
  • Strong built-in exam prep
  • Clean, modern course platform
  • Frequent 25–35% promotions
Check current pricing
02

Colibri Real Estate

From $119
  • Lowest entry price in California
  • Livestream option available
  • Pass guarantee on higher tiers
Check current pricing
03

AceableAgent

From $199
  • Genuinely good mobile app
  • Best for studying in short bursts
  • Premium tier with mobile-first design
Check current pricing
How we choose. We compare schools on state approval, course format, what each price tier actually includes, pass guarantees and platform features — using each provider's published information and the licensing requirements we verify with state commissions. We earn commissions from the schools listed here and the rates differ between them. Our ordering reflects editorial judgement and is set before commercial terms are considered.
The process

How to get your California licence

Five steps, and the coursework is the longest of them.

1

Meet the basic requirements

You must be at least 18. California has no residency requirement — out-of-state applicants qualify.

2

Complete 135 hours of education

Three college-level courses of at least 45 hours each: Real Estate Principles, Real Estate Practice (which since January 2024 must include implicit bias and fair housing training), and one elective.

3

Apply for the exam and get fingerprinted

Submit your application with course certificates, then complete Live Scan fingerprinting. That fee goes to the scanning operator, not the DRE.

4

Pass the salesperson exam

150 multiple-choice questions in 3 hours. You need at least 70% to pass.

5

Apply and find a broker

Submit the licence application within one year of passing. You must work under a licensed California broker.

Pre-licensing hours
135 (3 × 45)
Minimum age
18
Exam format
150 questions · 3 hours
Passing score
70%
Exam fee
$100
Original licence fee
$350
Combined exam + licence
$450
Renewal
$350 every 4 years
Course cost
$119 – $700

From the DRE fee schedule and salesperson requirements, verified August 2026.

Questions

California FAQs

How long does it take to get licensed in California?

Three to six months is typical. The 135 hours of coursework is the largest block, followed by exam scheduling and DRE application processing.

Is an online school accepted in California?

Yes, provided the school holds California DRE approval for the required courses. All three schools above do.

Do I need a degree?

No. The three courses are described as college-level, but you do not need a college degree to take them or to qualify for the licence.

What's the cheapest route?

Entry packages start around $119, but they usually exclude exam prep. Given the 70% pass threshold, a package with prep included is often cheaper than paying the $100 exam fee twice.

More California resources