California Real Estate Practice Test
Practice questions covering every topic on the California DRE Salesperson exam. Detailed explanations help you understand the reasoning behind every answer.
About the California Real Estate Exam
The California Real Estate Salesperson Exam is administered by the Department of Real Estate (DRE) and is required to obtain your real estate license in California. It is widely considered one of the most challenging state real estate exams in the country.
The exam costs $60 and is taken in person at a PSI testing center. You have 3 hours to answer 150 multiple-choice questions, and you need 70% (105 correct) to pass. Unlike many states, California uses a single unified exam with no separate national and state sections.
LicensePrep covers all the topics tested on the exam. Every question includes a detailed explanation covering why the correct answer is right, why the alternatives are wrong, and the real-world context you need to understand.
Exam facts
Topics you need to know
Property Ownership & Land Use
Types of property ownership, estates, encumbrances, easements, zoning, and land use controls.
Laws of Agency
Agency relationships, fiduciary duties, disclosure requirements, dual agency, and termination of agency.
Valuation & Market Analysis
Appraisal methods, comparative market analysis, factors affecting value, and property valuation principles.
Financing
Mortgage types, lending regulations, loan qualification, interest calculations, and government-backed loans.
Transfer of Property
Deeds, title insurance, escrow process, recording, and methods of transferring property ownership.
Practice of Real Estate
Licensing requirements, professional conduct, trust fund handling, advertising rules, and DRE regulations.
Contracts
Purchase agreements, listing agreements, contract elements, contingencies, and remedies for breach.
Property Management
Landlord-tenant law, lease types, property maintenance, fair housing, and management responsibilities.
Real Estate Math
Commission calculations, prorations, loan amortisation, area calculations, and investment returns.
Taxation
Property taxes, income tax implications, capital gains, 1031 exchanges, and tax deductions for homeowners.
Fair Housing & Ethics
Federal and state fair housing laws, protected classes, discriminatory practices, and ethical obligations.
Three steps to exam ready
Choose your mode
Quick topic practice, full topic review, or a timed 150-question mock exam that mirrors the real California DRE test.
Answer and learn
Get instant feedback with detailed explanations for every question. Understand the law and the real-world context behind each answer.
Track your progress
See your readiness by topic, identify weak areas, and know exactly when you are ready for the real exam.
Frequently asked questions
How many questions are on the California real estate exam?
The California DRE Salesperson Exam has 150 multiple-choice questions. You have 3 hours to complete it and need 70% (105 correct answers) to pass.
How much does the California real estate exam cost?
The exam costs $60, paid when you submit your application to the DRE. You take it in person at a PSI testing center. If you fail, you can retake it after an 18-day waiting period for the same fee.
What is the California real estate exam pass rate?
The first-time pass rate for the California salesperson exam is approximately 50-55%. This makes it one of the more challenging state exams, which is why thorough preparation is essential.
What are the prerequisites for the California real estate exam?
You must complete three college-level courses: Real Estate Principles, Real Estate Practice, and one elective. These can be taken at a community college or through an approved private school.
Is the California real estate exam harder than other states?
California is generally considered one of the more difficult state exams. It has 150 questions (many states have 80-120) and a lower first-time pass rate than the national average. However, thorough preparation makes a significant difference.
Can I study for the California real estate exam online?
Yes. LicensePrep provides practice questions covering all California DRE exam topics. You can practise on any device, track your progress, and take timed mock exams that mirror the real test format.
Ready to pass the California exam?
500+ practice questions covering the full California DRE Salesperson exam. Free to start, with detailed explanations for every answer.
Start California Practice