Records/Licenses/Permits (Real Estate Sales Personnel)

The agency provides licensing services for real estate salespersons and brokers. Services include licensing examinations and the handling of complaints against real estate agents and subdividers. This is a statewide program; there are no geographic restrictions.

The agency administers the licensing examinations for real estate brokers and salespersons and reviews actions of both real estate licensees and pre-paid rental service agencies to determine if grounds exist to impose discipline based on violations of the real estate law. It accepts complaints about both licensed and unlicensed individuals.

The California Department of Real Estate (DRE) offers processing of license and examination transactions through the easy to use, paperless, interactive eLicensing online system.

The agency also reviews activities of subdividers who offer new subdivision interests, such as new houses and condominiums, to potential buyers. It issues the "Subdivision Public Reports", a report which provides information about subdivisions that are within the department's jurisdiction. The agency does not handle rental problems and does not attempt to get monetary refunds for people.