Real Estate Agent Permit Requirements in San Diego, CA

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

   Free·Immediate (online application)

   Free

   Immediate (online application)

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

   $100 exam fee + $350 original license fee + $49 fingerprinting + pre-licensing courses (three 45-hour courses; cost varies)·4–16 weeks

   $100 exam fee + $350 original license fee + $49 fingerprinting + pre-licensing courses (three 45-hour courses; cost varies)

   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/year·1–5 business days

   $300–$800/year

   1–5 business days

1. City of San Diego — Business Tax Certificate (if operating a brokerage)

   All businesses operating in the City of San Diego must obtain a Business Tax Certificate from the Office of the City Treasurer - the city applies this to self-employed persons and independent contractors, which is how most real estate salespersons work, as well as to brokerages. Fee is employee-count-based: $34/year (12 or fewer employees) or $125 + $5/employee (13+), plus a $4 SB-1186 fee and, from July 1, 2025, $1.47 per employee for minimum-wage enforcement. If unsure of your status, confirm with the Business Tax Program at (619) 615-1500.

   Official government source

   $38/year for most small businesses ($34 business tax + $4 SB-1186 fee; 12 or fewer employees); $129/year + $5 and $1.47 per employee for 13+ employees·1–3 weeks

   $38/year for most small businesses ($34 business tax + $4 SB-1186 fee; 12 or fewer employees); $129/year + $5 and $1.47 per employee for 13+ employees

   1–3 weeks

Official Sources

• City of San Diego Business Tax
• California Department of Real Estate — Salesperson

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