California Real Estate Practice Exam 2026 - Free Real Estate Practice Questions and Study Guide

For a non-college-educated applicant seeking to become a real estate broker in California, the requirement is two years of experience in the real estate field. This requirement is established by the California Department of Real Estate to ensure that candidates have adequate practical knowledge and experience before assuming the responsibilities of a broker, which include managing transactions and supervising other real estate agents.

The two years of experience must typically involve activities such as selling or leasing real estate, which demonstrates the applicant's understanding of the market, agency relationships, contract negotiations, and various aspects of real estate regulations. This cumulative experience helps prepare non-college-educated applicants to handle the complexities and challenges of a broker's role effectively.

In contrast, a six-month or one-year requirement would be insufficient for the comprehensive skill set and competencies needed for a broker, while a four-year requirement would be excessive and may discourage potential candidates from entering the profession. Thus, the two-year experience prerequisite strikes a balance, ensuring that applicants are well-equipped for the responsibilities they will undertake.