California Real Estate License Exam: New Pass Rates Revealed!

The California Department of Real Estate (DRE) Licensing Division is critical in administering and managing real estate licenses and examinations. Each year the DRE publishes an annual report which covers the number of exams and the number of licenses issued. Here’s a summary of their activities and key statistics during the 2023-24 time period.

Exam Administrations

The DRE administered 46,412 salesperson license exams in 2023-24, showing a 5% increase from the previous year but a 26% decrease compared to 2021-221. For broker license exams, 3,869 were administered, representing a 15% increase from 2022-23 but an 18% decrease from 2021-221.

Below is a chart representing the exam administrations over the past three fiscal years:

Real Estate Licenses Issued

The issuance of new licenses saw a slight decline in 2023-24. The chart below reflects a 6% decrease in new salesperson licenses issued and a 7% decrease in new broker licenses issued during 2023-24. When compared to the 2021-2022 numbers of licenses issued, there was a 30% decrease in Salespersons licenses and a 24% decrease in Brokers licenses.

 

California Real Estate Licensing Trends: October 2023

How Many Brokers & Salespersons Are Licensed in California?

According to the CA Department of Real Estate (DRE), here are the total number of Brokers and Salespersons licensed in October 2023 compared to September 2023. The numbers also show the total amount of licensees from 1 year ago and 2 years ago.

  • Brokers:
    • This Month: 127,187
    • Last Month: 127,322
    • 12 Months Ago: 128,604
    • 24 Months Ago: 133,598
  • Salespersons (Agents):
    • This Month: 310,024
    • Last Month: 309,887
    • 12 Months Ago: 301,843
    • 24 Months Ago: 305,685

Breaking Down the Trends

A Growing Salespersons’ Community

You might notice there was a decrease of roughly 3,800 Salesperson licensed 2 years ago compared to the total number licensed only a year ago. One would think the number of agents would continue to become lower considering the real estate market was dealing with a large increase in interest rates. The opposite actually occurred, and the number of licensed agents increased up to 310,024 in October of 2023. That was an increase of almost 9,000 licensed individuals in one year.

Brokers: The Backbone of the Industry

Although there is a slight dip in the number of brokers compared to the previous years, their substantial presence in the industry signifies the overall strength of the market. Becoming a broker opens up avenues for higher responsibilities and rewards. If you aim for a position of leadership, pursuing a broker’s license is a great step to take.

California Salesperson Licenses Issued vs Exams Administered

  • New Salesperson Licence Issued (Agent)
    • This Month: 2,154
    • Last Month: 2,724
    • 12 Months Ago: 2,991
  • Salesperson (Agent) Exams Administered
    • This Month: 4,583
    • Last Month: 4.677
    • 12 Months Ago: 4,716

What Is The Passing Rate of The California Real Estate Exam?

As you can see, over half of the people who took the state exam did not pass and get their license in October. Only 47% of test takers were issued a California real estate license that month. The September numbers were much better with 58% of the passing students obtaining a license. One year ago in October 2022, about 63% of people passed the exam and were licensed. From what we have seen, the average number of people each year who pass is 50% or less.

California Broker Licenses Issued vs Exams Administered

Here are the October and September number of Broker examinations taken and Broker licenses issued:

  • New Broker Licenses Issued
    • This Month: 320
    • Last Month: 329
    • 12 Months Ago: 395
  • Broker Exams Administered
    • This Month: 2,187
    • Last Month: 2,255
    • 12 Months Ago: 2,991

Why do so many brokers fail the state exam? In October, 2,187 people took the Broker exam, and only 320 passed. That means only 14.6% of the people who took the exam passed and received a broker license. September was not any better with 14.5% of examinees passing and getting licensed. The Broker exam is more difficult than the Salesperson exam. It contains 50 more questions and you must pass with a 75% or higher score. These statistics show if you do become a broker you will be certifiably more knowledgeable than your peers. This is a unique selling point when obtaining new clients.

How Chamberlin Makes a Difference

The process to get your real estate license or broker license is confusing. Which courses do you need to take? Why does the DRE require Brokers to take so many classes? We help people with all these questions and provide DRE-accredited coursework so you can qualify to take the state exams. Our success is also attributed to our exam preparation and crash course which helps both Brokers and potential new agents prepare. Other characteristics include:

  • Expert Guidance: Learn from the industry veterans who bring real-world insights to your learning experience.
  • Flexible Learning: Our online courses give you the liberty to learn at your own pace, fitting perfectly into your busy schedule.
  • Success Stories: Join the league of our successful alumni who have carved a niche for themselves in the real estate sector.

Feel free to reach out to us, and we’ll be happy to guide you at every step.

Source: https://www.dre.ca.gov/stats/2023-2024.html

Don’t Be a Statistic: 7 Critical Errors You Must Avoid in Your California Real Estate Exam Prep

Proper preparation is crucial to navigate through the detailed wording of the California Real Estate Exam. There were 9,514 salesperson exams administered in July and August of this year. During that same two-month time period, the DRE only issued 4,596 real estate licenses. That means only 48% of the test takers received their California real estate license. There are some individuals who only take the exam and wait to submit their license application, but as you can see, the state test is not a walk in the park. If you don’t want to fail, here are 7 things to avoid while you are preparing.

Mistake 1: Underestimating the Exam

  • Complexity of the Exam:
    The California Real Estate Exam is not to be taken lightly. It comprises 150 multiple-choice questions, covering a broad spectrum of topics, to be completed in three hours and fifteen minutes.
  • Importance of Adequate Preparation:
    Underestimating the exam can lead to inadequate preparation, affecting your chances of passing.
  • Recommendation:
    Start your preparation early and utilize comprehensive study materials offered by Chamberlin Real Estate School to understand the essentials and advanced aspects of real estate principles and practices.

Mistake 2: Not Creating a Study Schedule

  • Importance of Time Management:
    Managing your study time effectively is crucial. Without a consistent and realistic study schedule, it’s easy to procrastinate and miss out on important material.
  • Recommendation:
    Develop a manageable study schedule, allocating specific hours each day to different topics, and stick to it. This strategy will ensure that you cover all necessary materials before the exam.

Mistake 3: Relying Solely on Memorization

  • Need for Conceptual Understanding:
    Memorizing facts won’t be enough; understanding the underlying concepts is equally important.
  • Recommendation:
    Focus on grasping the concepts behind real estate laws, property ownership, and contracts, rather than just memorizing facts. Use Chamberlin Real Estate School’s tools and strategies to aid in conceptual understanding.

Mistake 4: Ignoring Practice Exams

  • Importance of Practice Exams:
    Practice exams help identify weak areas and provide a clear picture of your progress.
  • Recommendation:
    Regularly take practice exams and review your mistakes. Chamberlin offers a variety of real estate practice exams to help you get accustomed to the exam format and question types.

Mistake 5: Overlooking State-Specific Information

  • California-Specific Real Estate Laws:
    California has unique real estate laws and regulations that are essential to know for the exam.
  • Recommendation:
    Prioritize learning California-specific information. Chamberlin’s pre-license course is tailored to provide in-depth knowledge of California’s real estate laws and practices. The DRE has a specific page regarding Real Estate Law which can be used to study for the exam.

Mistake 6: Neglecting Health and Wellness

  • Importance of Balanced Lifestyle:
    Regular breaks, proper nutrition, and adequate sleep are essential for optimal learning and retention.
  • Recommendation:
    Maintain a balanced lifestyle, take regular breaks, eat nutritious food, and ensure you get enough sleep to keep your mind sharp and receptive.

Mistake 7: Not Seeking Help When Needed

  • Importance of Seeking Clarification:
    Struggling with difficult concepts without seeking help can hinder your progress.
  • Recommendation:
    Don’t hesitate to seek clarification on difficult concepts. Utilize Chamberlin Real Estate School’s support and online forums to get your questions answered.

In the end…

Avoiding these common mistakes can significantly increase your chances of passing the California Real Estate Exam. Chamberlin Real Estate School is here to support you with advanced courses, tools, and strategies to ensure your success. Students who enroll in one of our inclusive packages of courses, exam, prep, and crash courses see the best results when it comes to passing the state exam on the first try.

How to Apply for the Real Estate Agent License Examination in California

Applying for a real estate license examination in California can be a tricky and sometimes confusing process. Everything needs to be done exactly right to avoid any hiccups, but Chamberlain Real Estate School is here to help each step of the way. We provide all the information you need to get your license, and our pre-license courses for the real estate salesperson license are precisely what you need to prepare for (and pass!) the exam. With our guidance, you’ll be on your way to a successful real estate career in California faster than you thought possible!

Steps to Apply for the Real Estate Salesperson Examination

 

  1. Online Application via eLicensing
    • Gather Your Documents: Before you start, ensure you have all the necessary documents ready. This includes transcripts showcasing the completion of required California real estate courses and any name change documentation.
    • Accommodations for Disabilities: The Department of Real Estate (DRE) is compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). If you need special accommodations, complete the Reasonable Accommodations Request for Examination.
    • Navigating the California DRE eLicensing System:
      •   Create a user profile if you haven’t already.
      •   Select the salesperson exam application.
      •   Complete the application, ensuring you upload all required documents.
      •   Confirm all information is correct and pay the examination application fee using accepted payment methods.
  2. Applying via Mail
    • Start with the Application: Complete the Salesperson Examination Application, ensuring you read all instructions carefully.
    • Gather Your Transcripts: Just like the online method, you’ll need to provide transcripts showing successful completion of the required courses.
    • Payment: Include the application fee using accepted payment methods.
    • Accommodations for Disabilities: If needed, attach the Reasonable Accommodations Request for Examination to your application.
    • Mailing Your Application: Send all documents to the Department of Real Estate, Examination Section, P.O. Box 137001, Sacramento, CA 95813-7001.

After Submitting Your Application

  • Stay Updated: Check the current processing timeframes to understand when your application will be processed.
  • Examination Schedule Notice: Once approved, you’ll receive a notice informing you about your examination schedule.
  • Using eLicensing for Scheduling: You can check, self-schedule, or reschedule your exam using the eLicensing system.
  • Understanding Qualifications: Ensure all real estate exam qualification requirements are met before your examination date.

Combined Salesperson Exam and License Application Process

Final Thoughts

Embarking on a real estate career in California is an exciting journey. With the right preparation and understanding of the application process, you’re setting yourself up for success. The first step is to register for our real estate agent license course, to ensure you’re well-prepared for the examination and a thriving career!

What if I Don’t Pass the California Real Estate Exam?

Getting ready for the California real estate exam? It’s a big step for anyone looking to start their career in real estate. But what happens if you don’t pass on your first try? Here’s what you need to know about moving forward.

Understanding the Examination Results

  • Electronic Examination Results: Choosing an electronic examination means you’ll get your results immediately after finishing. Additional correspondence usually follows within five business days. If you complete the combo exam/real estate license application, you’ll receive your test results and real estate license together.
  • Passing Criteria:
    •   Salespersons Exam (for “Real Estate Agents”): Answer at least 70% of the questions correctly.
    •   Brokers Exam (for Agency Owners): Answer at least 75% of the questions correctly.
  • Feedback for Unsuccessful Candidates: If you don’t pass, you’ll receive your score and the percentage of questions answered correctly in each subject area. Keep in mind that your overall score isn’t simply an average of these percentages.

The Process of Re-taking the Examination

If you don’t pass the California real estate exam on your first try, it’s not the end of the road! Here’s how you can prepare to retake the test:

  • Wait for the Official Notification: You need to wait for the official notification of your exam results before reapplying.
  • Risks of Premature Application:
    •   Your exam record could be flagged.
    •   Test results might be withheld.
    •   You could incur additional fees.
    •   Your new test date might be changed, delayed, or even canceled.
  • Applying to Retake the Test: The fastest way is through the eLicensing website, or you can use your Examination Result Notice (form RE 418A for sales agents or RE 418B for brokers).

Lost Your Examination Result Notice? Here’s What to Do

Misplacing your Examination Result Notice can be frustrating, but there’s a solution:

How Many Times Can You Re-take the Exam?

The good news is, there’s no limit to how many times you can retake the exam, as long as it’s within two years of your original application date. However, if you wish to take it after this period, you’ll need to:

  • Submit a new application.
  • Meet all statutory requirements.
  • Pay the appropriate fee which is $60 in California.

Duration to Wait Before Re-taking the Exam

The timing is key. Here’s what you should know about the waiting period:

  • Computer-based Exam: You’ll receive your results before leaving the test center, with additional correspondence typically arriving within five days.
  • Pen-and-Paper Exam: Expect your results about a week later by mail.

What should you do during the waiting period between attempts? Use this time wisely to strengthen your weak areas. Review your score breakdown to identify which topics need more attention – whether that’s property ownership, financing, or California-specific laws. Consider taking practice exams to build your confidence and timing. Many students find it helpful to join study groups or work with a tutor who specializes in California real estate law. You might also want to update your study materials, as real estate regulations can change. Remember, simply retaking the same exam without addressing your knowledge gaps rarely leads to better results.

The Bottom Line

While not passing the California real estate exam can be disappointing, it’s essential to remember that many successful agents failed on their first try. With dedication, preparation, and the right resources, you can succeed! If you’re seeking a thorough real estate license course to increase your chances, we’re here to support you.

Not passing the California real estate exam on your first attempt can feel discouraging, but remember that plenty of successful agents needed more than one try. With hard work, good study habits, and quality training materials, you can pass! If you’re looking for a complete real estate license course to improve your odds, we’re ready to support you.

Unlocking Success: 9 Insider Secrets to Crush Your California Real Estate Exam

Passing the California Real Estate Exam is a crucial step to validate your knowledge and skills in the real estate sector. With the competitive nature of the real estate industry in California, being well-prepared is non-negotiable. Chamberlin Real Estate School is committed to offering up to date exam prep materials and keeping our crash course engaging and fun to attend. Here are the keys to give you the best chance at passing the state exam. 

 

Tip #1: Understand the Exam Format

  • Objective: Acquaint yourself with the structure, types of questions, and scoring system of the exam.
  • Details: Knowing the format of the exam will help you strategize your preparation effectively. The California Real Estate Exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions, and a score of 70% or higher is required to pass. Familiarizing yourself with the types of questions asked will help in reducing anxiety and improving accuracy during the actual exam. 

Tip #2: Create a Study Schedule

  • Objective: Designate specific, uninterrupted time slots daily for focused study.
  • Details: Consistency is key when preparing for an exam. Allocate dedicated time each day to review different topics and solve real estate practice questions. A well-structured study schedule helps in covering all the topics systematically and avoids last-minute cramming. For instance, allocate two hours each morning to review real estate laws and another two hours in the evening for practice questions.

Tip #3: Use Reliable Study Materials

  • Objective: Employ up-to-date and credible resources to deepen your understanding of the subject matter.
  • Details: Using reliable study materials ensures that you are studying the right content. Chamberlin Real Estate School provides the latest real estate textbooks, online resources, and other study materials that are crucial for your preparation. Regularly reviewing and revising from these resources will solidify your understanding and retention of the subject matter.

Tip #4: Take Practice Exams

  • Objective: Regularly undertake practice exams to identify and work on areas that need improvement.
  • Details: Practice exams simulate the actual test environment and help you gauge your preparedness. Chamberlin’s practice exams mimic the real exam conditions, allowing you to assess your knowledge and time management skills. Regular practice will also help in reducing exam anxiety and building confidence.

Tip #5: Focus on Weak Areas

  • Objective: Allocate more time and resources to topics you find challenging to strengthen your understanding.
  • Details: Identifying and focusing on your weak areas is crucial for improvement. If property valuation seems complex, delve deeper into this topic using various learning materials and seek clarification from experts or doing research online. Addressing your weak points early will ensure a balanced preparation and increase your chances of scoring high.

Tip #6: Stay Healthy

  • Objective: Maintain optimal physical and mental health through balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and adequate sleep.
  • Details: A healthy body and mind are crucial for effective learning and exam performance. Adopt a balanced diet, engage in regular physical activity, and ensure you get at least 7-9 hours of sleep nightly. Staying healthy will enhance your concentration, memory, and overall cognitive function, facilitating efficient learning and retention.

Tip #7: Develop Effective Note-Taking Skills

  • Objective: Develop a system for taking concise and effective notes to aid in understanding and revision.
  • Details: Effective note-taking helps in organizing information and makes revision more efficient. Develop a system that works best for you, whether it’s outlining, mapping, or charting. Regularly review and revise your notes to reinforce your learning and identify areas that may need more attention.

Tip #8: Manage Time Effectively During the Exam

  • Objective: Develop strategies to allocate adequate time to each question and avoid spending excessive time on a single one.
  • Details: Time management is crucial during the exam. Practice answering questions within a stipulated time and prioritize completing all questions over perfecting a few. Developing this skill during your preparation will help you manage your time effectively during the actual exam, ensuring that every question is attended to.

Tip #9: Stay Positive and Confident

  • Objective: Cultivate a positive mindset and self-belief throughout your preparation and during the exam.
  • Details: Maintaining a positive attitude and confidence is crucial for success. Regularly affirm your ability to pass the exam and visualize your success. Avoid negative thoughts and focus on your preparation and the knowledge you have acquired. A positive mindset will help in reducing stress and improving performance during the exam.

The Bottom Line

Successfully passing the California Real Estate Exam requires meticulous preparation, effective study strategies, and a positive mindset. By adhering to the tips provided, you can optimize your preparation and elevate your chances of passing the exam on your first attempt. Check out Chamberlin’s California Exam Prep and Crash Course class schedule which have been proven to help students find success.

Is the California Real Estate Exam Hard? Everything You Need to Know About the Exam

California Real Estate Exam

If you’re thinking about becoming a real estate agent in California, you’re probably curious about how tough the licensing exam really is. The exam is definitely hard and requires lots of studying and commitment to pass. Here, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the California real estate exam, including its difficulty and the best preparation methods.

How Hard is the California Real Estate Exam?

The difficulty of the real estate exam varies by state, but the California real estate exam is known to be one of the most difficult. The pass rate for the California real estate exam in the last two years has been below 50%, indicating its high level of competitiveness and difficulty. But don’t let that scare you off. The exam is tough for a good reason – it makes sure only people who really know their stuff get their license.

What is the Hardest Part of the Exam?

Different people struggle with different parts of the exam, but most test-takers say the Practice of Real Estate and Disclosures section gives them the most trouble. This section takes up 25% of the exam and has between 37-38 questions to answer. Spending extra time studying this section will help you get comfortable with fair housing laws and advertising rules. Scoring well in this section can put you in an excellent position going forward in the exam.

One thing many test-takers don’t realize is that the California exam focuses heavily on state-specific laws and regulations that are different from other states. For example, California has unique disclosure requirements, specific forms you must know, and particular rules about agency relationships that you won’t find elsewhere. This means generic national study materials often fall short – you need California-focused prep materials that cover things like the Transfer Disclosure Statement, Natural Hazard Disclosure Statement, and California’s specific fair housing laws. Understanding these state requirements isn’t just important for passing the exam – they’re rules you’ll use every day as a practicing agent.

How Many Questions are on the Exam?

The California real estate salesperson exam consists of 150 questions that you must answer in 3 hours. The questions are divided into seven sections, each covering different topics you’ll learn about during your real estate education and online practice. The California broker exam has 200 questions and you are allowed 4 hours to complete.

Here’s how the questions are split up on the exam:

  1. The Practice of Real Estate and Disclosures – 25% of the exam (37-38 questions)
  2. Laws of Agency and Fiduciary Duty – 17% of the exam (25-26 questions)
  3. Property Ownership and Land Use Controls and Regulations – 15% of the exam (22-23 questions)
  4. Property Valuation and Financial Analysis – 14% of the exam (21 questions)
  5. Contracts – 12% of the exam (18 questions)
  6. Financing – 9% of the exam (13-14 questions)
  7. Transfer of Property – 8% of the exam (12 questions)

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How to Prepare for the California Real Estate Exam

Preparing for the California real estate exam requires hard work and dedication, but there are many resources available to help you succeed. Here are some of the best ways to prepare for the exam:

  1. Utilize Practice Questions: Our online California Exam Prep has over 1,000 questions, which can be sorted by subject category to create your own exam. It’s graded automatically, providing explained answers with links to an extensive real estate glossary.
  2. Repeat the Online Tests: Taking an online test once isn’t enough. Take the tests several times to get a good idea of what you’ll be asked and how the questions might be worded. This will help you prepare for the actual exam.
  3. Save Questions You Don’t Know for Later: If you come across a question you’re struggling with, don’t guess and forget about it. Leave it for the moment and come back to it once you get through the questions that you’re more confident about. You may find that the answers to these questions appear in later questions.
  4. Remember Vocabulary: While math is important, it’s also important to remember the vocabulary used in the real estate profession. This includes local state laws, types of agencies, discrimination laws, and details of the relationship between the broker and agent.
  5. Attend a Crash Course: Procrastination is something that affects all of us. Enrolling in a real estate crash course the weekend before your test will keep the content fresh in your mind. Studying with a group of people will help push and motivate you to keep grinding through the last days before taking the state exam.
  6. Develop a Study Plan: It’s important to have a consistent study plan leading up to the exam. Set aside dedicated study time each day and stick to a schedule. This will help you stay on track and ensure you cover all the necessary material.
  7. Get Support: It’s important to have support during the exam preparation process. Whether it’s from friends, family, or a study group, having a support system can help keep you motivated and accountable. Joining a study group can also provide the opportunity to learn from others and discuss difficult topics.
  8. Take Care of Yourself: Don’t neglect self-care during the exam preparation process. Make sure to get enough sleep, eat well, and exercise regularly. Taking care of yourself can help you stay focused and alert during the exam.

The Bottom Line

The California real estate exam is tough, but thousands of students from Chamberlin Real Estate School have successfully passed it. The exam is designed to ensure that only those who are fully prepared and knowledgeable about real estate can become licensed professionals. To prepare for the exam, repeat online tests, save questions you don’t know for later, remember vocabulary, utilize study guides and online courses, develop a study plan, get support, and take care of yourself. By following these tips and putting in the necessary hard work and dedication, you can pass the California real estate exam and become a licensed professional in the field. Your journey starts here!