Real estate exam dates California: 2025 guide

If you’ve completed your mandatory coursework, the next big step is scheduling your exam. But before you jump into test prep, you need to understand the real estate exam dates California offers, how the process works, and how to plan around your availability and goals.

This guide breaks down how to find and book your test date, what to expect on exam day, and how the full licensing process works in California. Whether you’re aiming for a salesperson or broker license, timing and preparation are key.

How the Real Estate License California Test Works

Before you schedule your exam, it’s important to know what the California real estate license test includes. The test is designed by the California Department of Real Estate (DRE) and must be passed before you can apply for your license.

Key Exam Details:

• Salesperson Exam:
  • 150 multiple-choice questions
  • 3 hours and 15 minutes
  • Passing score: 70%
    
• Broker Exam:
  • 200 multiple-choice questions
  • 4 hours
  • Passing score: 75%
    

Where to Find the Real Estate Exam California Schedule

The California DRE does not publish fixed exam calendars for the entire year. Instead, exam dates are offered year-round at designated testing centers across the state, and availability depends on demand and location.

How to View Available Dates:

• Log in to your DRE eLicensing account
• Select “Schedule Exam”
• Choose your preferred test center:
  
  • Los Angeles
  • Fresno
  • Oakland
  • Sacramento
  • San Diego

The California real estate exam schedule is updated regularly. If your preferred date isn’t available, check back frequently; new seats are added as test dates are confirmed.

Step-by-Step: Real Estate License California Process

Let’s break down the full licensing path so you can align your preparation with the available test dates. Timing matters when planning your study, test, and application process.

The Process Includes:

1. Complete Pre-License Education
   • 135 hours of DRE-approved coursework (Salesperson)
   • 360 hours for Broker applicants
2. Submit Exam or Combo Application: Choose between “Exam Only” or “Combo Exam and License Application” to save time
3. Get Fingerprinted (Live Scan): Required for all applicants; submit fingerprints before or shortly after applying
4. Wait for Exam Eligibility Notice: This typically takes 2–4 weeks
5. Schedule Exam Online: Select from available real estate exam dates in California
6. Pass the Exam: Receive your results immediately after completion
7. Submit Final Licensing Documents (if needed): If you applied for the exam only, you’ll submit your license application after passing.

When Should You Schedule Your Exam?

Timing your exam isn’t just about availability—it’s about being ready.

Smart Scheduling Tips:

• Don’t schedule too soon. Give yourself enough time for focused, consistent review.
• Don’t delay too long. Prolonged gaps between finishing your course and testing can lead to forgotten content.
• Balance your study with your calendar—avoid weeks when you’ll be distracted or overwhelmed.

A 4–6 week window after finishing your coursework is ideal for most students, especially those using a prep service like Lexawise.

How to Reschedule or Cancel an Exam

Life happens. If you need to change your California real estate license test date, the DRE allows you to do so, within certain limits.

Change Policy:

• You can reschedule up to six calendar days before your test
• Rescheduling within six days results in forfeiting your exam fee
• Log in to your eLicensing portal to manage your exam appointments

Keep in mind: Missing your test without rescheduling in time means you’ll need to pay the exam fee again to reschedule.

Key Documents to Bring on Exam Day

To avoid any last-minute issues, come prepared with the right materials.

Must-Have Items:

• Government-issued photo ID (must match your DRE record)
• Exam confirmation printout or screenshot
• Simple calculator (non-programmable)
• Masks or face coverings if local test center policies require them

Prohibited Items: Phones, smartwatches, study materials, or any kind of notes

What Happens After the Exam?

Whether you’re taking the salesperson or broker version, you’ll get your results immediately after finishing the test.

If You Pass:

• You’ll either complete your license application (if not already submitted), or
• Wait for DRE to process your combined application and issue your license

If You Don’t Pass:

• You can retake the exam as many times as needed, but must pay the exam fee each time
• Use your score breakdown to target areas for improvement before rescheduling
  

Lexawise Tip: Focus on missed question categories and take practice tests in timed conditions to simulate the real exam.

Lexawise Prep: Aligning Your Study with the Exam Timeline

With limited availability for real estate exam dates in California, it’s more important than ever to use your study time wisely.

Here’s how Lexawise helps you align prep with your exam schedule:

• Timed full-length practice exams to simulate real conditions
• Custom study plans based on your target exam date
• Instant performance feedback to adjust focus areas as you go
• Topic-specific quizzes that reinforce weak points
• Flexible study modules to fit around your busy schedule

Whether you’re two weeks out or still deciding when to book your exam, Lexawise gives you the tools to prepare with purpose.

Your Timeline Starts Now

Real estate exam dates in California aren’t just about scheduling—they’re about seizing the moment. Once you finish your required coursework, the countdown to your license begins. The sooner you schedule your exam, the sooner you move one step closer to becoming a licensed real estate professional.

At Lexawise, we’re here to support you at every phase—from planning your exam timeline to passing it with confidence. Our comprehensive prep platform is built specifically for California students who are ready to take that next leap.

Ready to get your exam on the calendar and start studying smarter?
Join Lexawise today and turn your test date into your launch date.