Most states require agents to take focused real estate classes. The number of hours required depends on the state, but in general, you will need to complete at least 40 hours. The most common focused classes are Law of Agency, Law of Contracts, and Legal Aspects of Real Estate. These classes deal with the laws that govern contracts, agents’ responsibilities, and the agent-client relationship.
The state will provide instructions for completing the exam. Most states outsource the administration of this exam to third-party testing centers. Most real estate licensing tests include sections on federal real estate laws and general real estate principles, as well as state-specific laws. Math questions may require the use of a calculator. Most pre-licensing courses will offer practice tests, and many real estate commissions publish these online.
In addition to the initial licensing requirements, agents must take continuing education classes to stay up to date on changes in the industry. Although the topics and hours of these classes vary widely by state, they all focus on maintaining and upgrading knowledge and skills. Continuing education is vital if you want to maintain your license as a real estate agent. The classes offered by these schools are often free or very inexpensive.
In order to become a real estate agent in California, you must be 18 years old and U.S. citizens. To get your license, you must also take three real estate classes totaling ninety hours. You must complete the first course before you take the state exam, and the second class should be completed within a year of passing the first. You must also complete at least fifteen hours of continuing education every two years after licensing to stay current with industry trends.
