Becoming a licensed real estate agent in Los Angeles in 2025–2026 requires completing state-approved courses, passing the licensing exam, and covering various application and renewal fees. On average, the total cost to obtain a real estate license in Los Angeles ranges from $600–$1,200, depending on the school, materials, and exam attempts. The process typically takes 3–6 months and includes coursework, background checks, and joining a brokerage. Ongoing expenses, such as renewal fees, association dues, and marketing costs, can add $500–$1,000 annually once licensed.
Getting a real estate license in Los Angeles costs $600–$1,200 in 2025–2026. Learn course fees, exam costs, and renewal expenses for LA real estate agents.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Real Estate License in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
The total cost to become a real estate agent in Los Angeles depends on education providers, exam attempts, and optional add-ons such as prep courses or association fees. The California Department of Real Estate (DRE) governs licensing requirements statewide, and fees remain fairly consistent across LA County.
• Pre-licensing course fees: $150–$400 depending on school and learning format (online or in-person).
• State exam fee: $60 per attempt for the California Real Estate Salesperson Exam.
• License application fee: $245 for a four-year salesperson license, payable to the California DRE.
• Fingerprinting and background check: $50–$75 depending on location.
• Exam prep materials or tutor sessions: Optional $75–$200 depending on provider.
Required Courses and Education Costs [2025–2026]
California law requires completing 135 hours of pre-licensing education before taking the state exam. These courses can be completed online or at approved local institutions. Most Los Angeles-based real estate schools offer flexible study options that fit various budgets.
• Total education requirement: 3 courses (Real Estate Principles, Real Estate Practice, and an elective such as Property Management or Finance).
• Online package costs: $150–$300 for self-paced bundles with exam prep tools.
• In-person classes: $300–$450 depending on schedule and instructor credentials.
• Completion time: Typically 3–5 months for full coursework.
• Accredited providers: Allied Real Estate Schools, Real Estate Express, and California Realty Training are among the most popular.
California State Exam and Application Fees [2025–2026]
The California Real Estate Salesperson Exam must be passed before applying for a license. The exam tests knowledge of laws, practices, and financial principles in property transactions.
• Exam fee: $60 per sitting; valid for two years from approval date.
• Application fee: $245, submitted with Form RE 400A.
• Rescheduling or re-exam costs: $60 for each additional attempt.
• Exam format: 150 multiple-choice questions with a 3-hour, 15-minute limit.
• Passing score: 70% or higher required to qualify for licensing.
Fingerprinting, Background Check, and Live Scan Fees [2025–2026]
All applicants must complete a fingerprint background check through Live Scan before their license is issued. This ensures compliance with the California DRE’s security and ethical standards.
• Live Scan fingerprinting: $49–$75 at authorized centers.
• Processing time: Typically 1–2 weeks before results are available.
• Documentation required: Valid ID, exam application, and payment receipt.
• Tip: Schedule Live Scan early to avoid delays in final license approval.
• Renewal fingerprinting: Usually not required unless your license lapses for an extended period.
Post-License and Continuing Education Costs [2025–2026]
After receiving a real estate license, agents must renew it every four years by completing continuing education (CE) courses and paying renewal fees. This ensures agents stay compliant with California real estate laws.
• License renewal fee: $245 every four years for active status.
• Continuing education: 45 hours of DRE-approved courses costing $50–$150 total.
• Late renewal fee: Additional $122.50 if submitted after expiration.
• Course topics: Ethics, agency, fair housing, and trust fund management.
• Providers: CE Shop, Kaplan, and Allied Schools offer renewal packages online.
Real Estate Brokerage and Association Fees [2025–2026]
After obtaining a license, new agents must join a brokerage to legally practice. Many brokerages charge desk fees, training costs, or commission splits. Additionally, most agents join professional associations like the National Association of Realtors (NAR) or local MLS boards.
• Brokerage desk fees: $50–$300 monthly, depending on firm and resources offered.
• Association membership: $150–$250 annually for local Realtor boards (e.g., Greater Los Angeles Realtors).
• Multiple Listing Service (MLS) access: $100–$200 per year for property listing tools.
• E&O insurance (errors and omissions): $150–$400 annually for liability coverage.
• Marketing and branding costs: $500–$1,000 for business cards, websites, and signs.
Real Estate License Costs by Neighborhood or Region in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
While state fees remain the same, overall expenses can differ by area depending on education provider pricing and local association dues. Central boroughs often have higher membership and brokerage fees than suburban ones.
• Downtown LA: $900–$1,200 total including local Realtor dues and brokerage onboarding.
• Beverly Hills / West LA: $1,000–$1,300 including premium brokerage and NAR fees.
• Hollywood / West Hollywood: $800–$1,000 with average school and MLS costs.
• Pasadena / Burbank: $700–$950 with moderate education and membership fees.
• San Fernando Valley: $600–$900 for affordable schools and regional boards.
• South LA: $600–$850, ideal for budget-conscious applicants using online courses.
Tips to Save Money on Real Estate Licensing in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
Prospective agents can save hundreds by choosing online courses, bundled exam prep, and affordable local associations. Planning your steps before enrolling helps avoid duplicate fees.
• Choose online schools with bundled education, exam prep, and practice tests for discounted rates.
• Take advantage of school promotions or referral discounts (10–20% off tuition).
• Schedule exams early to avoid rescheduling fees or late penalties.
• Compare broker commission structures to minimize startup costs.
• Use tax deductions for licensing and education expenses when filing as an independent contractor.
Summary of Real Estate License Costs in Los Angeles (2025–2026)
| Category | Average Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Licensing Education | $150–$400 | Required 135-hour coursework |
| State Exam Fee | $60 per attempt | Paid to California DRE |
| License Application Fee | $245 | 4-year salesperson license |
| Fingerprinting & Background Check | $50–$75 | One-time Live Scan requirement |
| Continuing Education | $50–$150 | Every 4 years for renewal |
| Association & MLS Fees | $150–$400 annually | Optional but recommended |
| Brokerage Onboarding | $50–$300 monthly | Depends on firm |
| Total Initial Cost | $600–$1,200 | From coursework to license approval |
FAQ: Real Estate License Cost in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
Q1. How much does it cost to get a real estate license in Los Angeles?
Expect to spend $600–$1,200 for all coursework, exams, fingerprinting, and license fees.
Q2. How long does it take to get licensed in Los Angeles?
The process takes 3–6 months on average, depending on course speed and exam scheduling.
Q3. Are online real estate courses cheaper?
Yes. Online programs cost $150–$300 compared to $300–$450 for in-person classes.
Q4. How much is the California real estate exam fee?
The exam costs $60 per attempt and must be passed with a 70% or higher score.
Q5. Do I need to join a brokerage after getting licensed?
Yes. You must work under a licensed brokerage to legally practice real estate in California.
Q6. How often do I need to renew my license?
Every four years, with a $245 renewal fee and 45 hours of continuing education.
Q7. Can real estate licensing costs be tax-deductible?
Yes. Education, license, and membership fees are often deductible for independent contractors.