Real Estate Agent Permit Requirements in Los Angeles, CA

Complete permit and license guide for starting a real estate agent in Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, California.

Updated 2026-03-15 4 stops $800–$2,000 est. 4–18 weeks to obtain license and begin practice
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Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. This guide was compiled from public and official sources (last updated ) and has not yet been independently source-verified — confirm each requirement before acting on it.

Federal — start here

1 stop

  1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

    Required if you operate as an LLC, corporation, or have employees. Free from the IRS. Even sole proprietors may benefit from obtaining an EIN to keep business and personal finances separate.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

State of California

2 stops

  1. California Department of Real Estate — Salesperson License

    California requires real estate salesperson applicants to complete 135 hours of pre-licensing education (three 45-hour courses), pass the California Real Estate Salesperson Exam (administered by the DRE), and apply to the California Department of Real Estate (DRE). Must work under a licensed California broker.

    Official government source

    $60 (exam fee) + $245 (license fee) + $400–$800 (pre-licensing education)4–16 weeks

  2. Errors & Omissions (E&O) Insurance

    Most real estate brokerages require agents to carry Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance, which protects against claims of negligent acts or omissions in real estate transactions. Some states mandate it; most brokerages require it. Coverage typically starts at $100,000 per occurrence.

    Official government source

    $300–$800/year1–5 business days

City of Los Angeles / Los Angeles County

1 stop

  1. City of Los Angeles — Business Tax Registration (if operating a brokerage)

    Individual real estate salespersons do not need a separate LA city license. If operating an independent brokerage in Los Angeles, a Business Tax Registration Certificate from the LA Office of Finance is required.

    Official government source

    $100–$500/year (brokerage only)1–3 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $800–$2,000 · 4–18 weeks to obtain license and begin practice

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Official Sources

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