How to Get a Real Estate License in Long Beach

Obtaining a real estate license in Long Beach, California, is a strategic career move for individuals seeking financial independence, flexible work hours, and the opportunity to thrive in one of Southern California’s most dynamic housing markets. With its coastal charm, diverse neighborhoods, and consistent demand for residential and commercial properties, Long Beach offers lucrative potential for licensed real estate professionals. However, earning your license is not as simple as passing a test—it requires careful planning, adherence to state regulations, and a commitment to ongoing education. This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of the process, from meeting eligibility requirements to submitting your application and launching your career. Whether you’re a recent graduate, a career changer, or someone looking to invest in real estate while earning income through sales, this tutorial provides the actionable, up-to-date information you need to succeed.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Meet the Basic Eligibility Requirements

Before you begin any coursework or testing, ensure you meet the foundational qualifications set by the California Department of Real Estate (DRE). These are non-negotiable and must be satisfied before your application will be processed.

You must be at least 18 years of age. There is no maximum age limit, and individuals of all backgrounds and career stages are welcome to apply. You must also be a legal resident of the United States. While U.S. citizenship is not required, you must provide documentation proving your lawful presence in the country, such as a valid Social Security number, Permanent Resident Card, or Employment Authorization Document.

Additionally, you must have a clean criminal record. The DRE conducts a thorough background check on all applicants. Certain felony convictions, particularly those involving fraud, theft, or sexual offenses, may disqualify you. Misdemeanors may still be considered on a case-by-case basis, especially if they occurred many years ago and you’ve demonstrated rehabilitation. If you have a prior conviction, it is strongly recommended that you submit a detailed explanation along with supporting documentation (e.g., court records, rehabilitation certificates) when applying.

Step 2: Complete the Required Pre-Licensing Education

The California DRE mandates that all applicants complete 135 hours of approved real estate education before sitting for the licensing exam. This education must be divided into three specific courses:

• Real Estate Principles (45 hours)
• Real Estate Practice (45 hours)
• One additional elective course (45 hours) from an approved list, which may include:
  • Real Estate Appraisal
  • Real Estate Finance
  • Trust Accounts and Fund Handling
  • Real Estate Law

These courses are offered by DRE-approved schools, both in-person and online. Many providers in Long Beach and throughout Southern California offer flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend classes, to accommodate working professionals. Popular institutions include The Real Estate School, Kaplan Real Estate Education, and Real Estate Express.

When selecting a school, verify its DRE approval status on the official DRE website. Avoid unaccredited providers—even if they offer lower prices—as their certificates will not be accepted. Upon successful completion of each course, you will receive a certificate of completion. Keep these documents safe; you will need to submit them with your licensing application.

Step 3: Apply for the Salesperson License Examination

Once you’ve completed your 135 hours, you can apply to take the California Real Estate Salesperson Exam. This is done through the DRE’s online portal, dre.ca.gov. Create an account if you don’t already have one, and navigate to the “Licensing” section to begin your application.

You will be asked to provide personal information, including your full legal name, address, Social Security number, and education history. You must also upload scanned copies of your course completion certificates. The application fee is $60 as of 2024, but this amount is subject to change—always confirm on the official site.

After submitting your application and paying the fee, the DRE will review your materials. This process typically takes 2–4 weeks. If your application is approved, you will receive an “Eligibility to Test” letter via email. This letter includes your Candidate ID and instructions for scheduling your exam.

Step 4: Schedule and Prepare for the Licensing Exam

The California Real Estate Salesperson Exam is administered by PSI Services LLC at testing centers across the state, including locations in Long Beach, Los Angeles, and Orange County. You can schedule your exam online through the PSI website using the information provided in your eligibility letter.

The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and is divided into two sections:

• General Real Estate Principles (75 questions) – Covers topics such as property ownership, contracts, agency relationships, fair housing, and real estate math.
• California Real Estate Practice (75 questions) – Focuses on state-specific laws, regulations, disclosures, escrow procedures, and local market practices.

You will have 3 hours and 15 minutes to complete the exam. A score of 70% or higher is required to pass. The exam is computer-based and results are typically available immediately after completion.

Preparation is critical. Use official DRE study guides, practice exams, and flashcards. Many candidates benefit from joining study groups or enrolling in exam prep boot camps. Focus on areas where you feel less confident—real estate math and agency law are common stumbling blocks. Practice calculating commissions, prorations, and interest rates until they become second nature.

Step 5: Pass the Background Check and Fingerprinting

As part of your licensing application, you are required to submit fingerprints for a criminal background check. This step is mandatory and must be completed after your application is approved but before your license is issued.

You can schedule fingerprinting through a Live Scan service provider. Many police stations, sheriff’s offices, and private vendors in Long Beach offer this service. Bring your DRE application number and a valid photo ID (driver’s license, passport, or state ID). The cost for Live Scan is typically between $50–$75, depending on the provider.

Once your fingerprints are submitted, the DRE will receive the results from the California Department of Justice and the FBI. This process can take 2–6 weeks. If any discrepancies arise, the DRE may contact you for additional information.

Step 6: Submit Your License Application and Pay Fees

After passing the exam and completing your fingerprinting, you must submit your final license application. This is done through the same DRE online portal. You will be prompted to pay the $245 salesperson license fee. This fee covers your initial license for a four-year term.

You will also need to provide proof of errors and omissions (E&O) insurance. While not required at the time of application, most brokerages require you to carry E&O insurance before you can begin working. Some schools offer discounted group rates for new agents.

Once your application is complete and all fees are paid, the DRE will process your license. This typically takes 1–3 weeks. You will receive your license via email as a digital document, and a physical card will be mailed to your address on file.

Step 7: Associate with a Licensed Broker

California law requires all salespersons to work under the supervision of a licensed real estate broker. You cannot operate independently. Therefore, once you receive your license, your next step is to join a brokerage.

Long Beach has dozens of brokerages, ranging from large national franchises like Keller Williams and RE/MAX to boutique local firms with deep community ties. When choosing a brokerage, consider:

• Commission splits (e.g., 50/50, 70/30, or higher for top performers)
• Training programs and mentorship opportunities
• Marketing support and lead generation tools
• Technology platforms (CRM, MLS access, e-signature tools)
• Office culture and work environment

Interview at least three brokerages. Ask current agents about their experiences. Many brokerages offer “new agent” programs with reduced fees or stipends for the first 6–12 months. Don’t rush this decision—your brokerage will significantly impact your early success.

Step 8: Join the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) and Local Association

To access property listings and market data, you must be granted access to the California Regional Multiple Listing Service (CRMLS), which serves Long Beach and surrounding areas. Your brokerage will typically handle this enrollment for you.

Additionally, consider joining the Long Beach Association of Realtors (LBAR), a local chapter of the National Association of Realtors (NAR). Membership provides access to continuing education, networking events, legal resources, and the prestigious “Realtor” designation. While not mandatory, it enhances your credibility and connects you with a community of professionals who can refer clients and share insights.

Step 9: Begin Building Your Business

With your license in hand and a brokerage in place, it’s time to launch your real estate career. Many new agents make the mistake of waiting for clients to come to them. Instead, proactive outreach is essential.

Start by:

• Creating a professional online presence (website, LinkedIn profile, social media)
• Developing a client referral system (ask friends, family, former colleagues)
• Hosting open houses and attending community events
• Partnering with local lenders, inspectors, and attorneys
• Learning your neighborhood’s market trends—Long Beach’s waterfront, downtown, and North Long Beach have distinct buyer profiles

Track your activities daily. The first 90 days are critical. Set goals for the number of listings you’ll prospect, calls you’ll make, and appointments you’ll schedule. Consistency beats talent in real estate.

Best Practices

Stay Organized from Day One

Real estate is a high-volume, detail-oriented business. Use digital tools to manage your contacts, appointments, documents, and follow-ups. Even if your brokerage provides a CRM, take the time to learn it thoroughly. Organized agents close more deals and retain more clients.

Master Local Market Knowledge

Long Beach is not a monolithic market. The price per square foot in the Bluff Heights neighborhood can be double that of East Long Beach. Understand the differences between ZIP codes, school districts, and transit access. Know which areas are experiencing gentrification, which have high rental demand, and which are popular with first-time buyers. This knowledge builds trust and positions you as an expert.

Develop a Niche

Specializing makes you memorable. Whether it’s military families relocating to Naval Base Long Beach, international buyers drawn to the city’s diversity, or investors seeking multi-family properties, carving out a niche helps you stand out. Clients prefer agents who understand their specific needs.

Follow Up Relentlessly

Studies show that 80% of sales require five or more follow-ups. Don’t give up after one email or call. Use automated email sequences, handwritten notes, and social media engagement to stay top-of-mind. A simple “How was your weekend?” message can reignite a dormant lead.

Invest in Professional Development

The California DRE requires 45 hours of continuing education every four years to renew your license. But don’t wait until renewal time. Take additional courses in negotiation, digital marketing, property staging, and luxury sales. The more skills you acquire, the more valuable you become.

Build Relationships, Not Just Transactions

Real estate is a relationship-driven industry. Clients who buy a home from you may not need another agent for years—but their friends, coworkers, and family members might. Treat every interaction with professionalism and kindness. A glowing review on Zillow or a referral from a past client is worth more than any paid advertisement.

Understand Ethics and Legal Compliance

California has some of the strictest real estate disclosure laws in the nation. Always provide accurate, complete, and timely disclosures. Never misrepresent a property’s condition. Avoid dual agency unless fully disclosed and consented to in writing. Violations can result in fines, license suspension, or civil lawsuits.

Tools and Resources

Official DRE Resources

The California Department of Real Estate website (dre.ca.gov) is your primary source for accurate, up-to-date information. Use it to:

• Verify school and course approval
• Check exam schedules and locations
• Download free study guides and exam outlines
• Submit applications and track status
• Access licensing renewal requirements

Approved Education Providers

These schools are DRE-approved and offer courses in Long Beach and online:

• The Real Estate School – Offers in-person classes at multiple Southern California locations
• Kaplan Real Estate Education – Comprehensive online curriculum with live instructor support
• Real Estate Express – Self-paced online learning with mobile app access
• Colibri Real Estate – Affordable, accredited courses with exam prep included

Exam Prep Tools

Use these resources to prepare for the state exam:

• Real Estate Exam Prep by VanEd – Practice tests with detailed explanations
• Real Estate Math Made Easy – Workbook and video tutorials for commission, proration, and interest calculations
• Quizlet Flashcards – Search for “California Real Estate Exam” to find user-generated study sets

MLS and Market Data

Once affiliated with a brokerage, you’ll gain access to CRMLS (California Regional Multiple Listing Service), which provides real-time listings, sales trends, and comparative market analyses. For public market data, use:

• Zillow – For general pricing and neighborhood insights
• Redfin – For buyer trends and home value estimates
• Realtor.com – For detailed property histories and school ratings

Business and Marketing Tools

Essential tools for new agents:

• Dotloop – Electronic transaction management
• Mailchimp or Constant Contact – Email marketing to past clients
• Canva – Design professional flyers, social media posts, and postcards
• Google My Business – Claim your profile to appear in local searches
• LinkedIn Sales Navigator – Find and connect with potential clients and referral partners

Local Associations and Networking

Join these organizations to expand your network:

• Long Beach Association of Realtors (LBAR) – Offers monthly meetings, workshops, and community events
• California Association of Realtors (CAR) – Provides legal forms, market reports, and advocacy
• National Association of Realtors (NAR) – Access to national resources and the Realtor® trademark

Real Examples

Example 1: Maria, a Former Teacher, Launches Her Real Estate Career

Maria, 34, taught middle school in Long Beach for eight years but wanted more flexibility and income potential. She enrolled in Real Estate Express’s online 135-hour program while working part-time. After completing her courses, she passed the state exam on her first attempt. She joined a boutique brokerage in Downtown Long Beach that offered a 70/30 commission split and a robust training program.

Her first listing came from a former student’s parent who heard she was now a real estate agent. She used Canva to create a professional flyer and posted it on Nextdoor and Facebook groups. Within three months, she had closed two sales and earned $18,000 in commissions. Today, Maria specializes in helping educators buy homes near top-rated schools in the Los Alamitos and Long Beach Unified districts.

Example 2: James, a Military Veteran, Builds a Niche in Relocation

James, 41, retired from the U.S. Navy after 20 years and moved to Long Beach with his family. He noticed many fellow veterans struggled to navigate the housing market after transitioning to civilian life. He completed his real estate license and joined a brokerage that partnered with the VA.

James created a free guide titled “Veteran’s Guide to Buying a Home in Long Beach,” which he distributed at VA hospitals and veteran meetups. He also partnered with a local lender who specialized in VA loans. Within a year, he closed 17 transactions, 14 of which were for military clients. His referral rate is over 60%, and he now leads a team of two other agents.

Example 3: Lisa, a College Student, Earns Income While Studying

Lisa, 21, was studying business at California State University, Long Beach. She took her real estate courses during summer break and passed the exam in her junior year. She joined a tech-forward brokerage that provided lead generation through digital ads and social media.

Lisa focused on renting out properties to fellow students and young professionals. She created a website listing affordable apartments near campus with virtual tours. She now manages over 20 rental units and earns passive income while continuing her studies. Her brokerage allows her to work remotely, and she uses her phone to show properties during lunch breaks.

FAQs

How long does it take to get a real estate license in Long Beach?

On average, it takes 3–6 months to obtain your license, depending on how quickly you complete your 135 hours of education, schedule your exam, and process your background check. Some motivated individuals complete the process in as little as 8 weeks.

Can I take the real estate exam without completing the 135 hours?

No. The California DRE strictly requires completion of all 135 hours from an approved provider before you can sit for the exam. There are no exceptions.

How much does it cost to get a real estate license in Long Beach?

Total costs typically range from $1,000 to $1,800, including:

• Course tuition: $400–$800
• Exam fee: $60
• Live Scan fingerprinting: $50–$75
• License fee: $245
• E&O insurance: $200–$500 (optional at application but required by most brokerages)

Do I need a college degree to become a real estate agent in Long Beach?

No. A college degree is not required. The only educational requirement is the 135 hours of pre-licensing coursework approved by the DRE.

Can I work as a real estate agent part-time?

Yes. Many agents start part-time while maintaining other jobs. Real estate is flexible—you can schedule showings and open houses around your availability. However, success requires consistent effort, even if you’re working part-time.

What’s the difference between a real estate agent and a Realtor?

A real estate agent is a licensed professional. A Realtor is an agent who is a member of the National Association of Realtors (NAR) and adheres to its strict Code of Ethics. All Realtors are agents, but not all agents are Realtors.

How often do I need to renew my license?

Your California real estate license expires every four years. To renew, you must complete 45 hours of continuing education and pay a $300 renewal fee. Failure to renew on time may result in your license becoming inactive or requiring reinstatement.

Can I transfer my license from another state to California?

California does not have reciprocity with any other state. Even if you’re licensed elsewhere, you must complete the full 135 hours of education and pass the California exam to obtain a license here.

What happens if I fail the real estate exam?

If you fail, you can retake the exam after a 30-day waiting period. You’ll need to pay the $60 exam fee again. Many candidates take a review course before retaking the test. You have up to three attempts within an 18-month window from your application approval date.

Is there a high demand for real estate agents in Long Beach?

Yes. Long Beach has experienced steady population growth, rising home prices, and strong rental demand. The city’s proximity to Los Angeles, the Port of Long Beach, and major highways makes it a desirable location for buyers and investors. New agents who are proactive and well-trained can find ample opportunities.

Conclusion

Earning your real estate license in Long Beach is more than a professional milestone—it’s the beginning of a dynamic, rewarding career. The process is structured, demanding, and designed to ensure that only qualified, ethical professionals enter the market. By following each step with diligence—from completing your education and passing the exam to choosing the right brokerage and building your client base—you position yourself for long-term success.

Long Beach’s real estate market is competitive but far from saturated. With its unique blend of urban energy and coastal appeal, it offers opportunities for agents who are willing to learn, adapt, and serve their community with integrity. The tools, resources, and support systems are readily available. What you bring to the table—your work ethic, your passion for helping people, and your commitment to excellence—is what will truly set you apart.

Don’t wait for the “perfect time.” Start today. Enroll in your first course. Study for your exam. Reach out to a local brokerage. Your future as a real estate professional in Long Beach begins with one step—and you’ve already taken it by reading this guide. Now go make it happen.