In California, there are several types of licenses that regulate the activities of real estate professionals. In this article, we will explore these types of licenses and their key features.

Salesperson

• Sales agent licenses are valid for 4 years and are renewable.
• Sales agents have the ability to represent buyers and sellers in real estate transactions under the supervision of a licensed broker.

Broker

• Broker licenses are also valid for four years and are renewable.
• Brokers have a higher level of training and experience compared to sales agents. They can work independently or hire sales agents to work under their supervision.
• Brokers may also operate their own real estate companies.

Restricted

• Restricted licenses may be issued to individuals who have committed violations that would warrant suspension, revocation, or denial of a full license.
• Restrictions may apply to the term of the license, employment under a specific broker, and specific privileges.
• There is no right to renew a restricted license.

Temporary (Temporary License)

• A 90-day temporary license may be granted to an applicant for renewal or reinstatement if the previous active license was issued four or more years prior to the application.
• The commissioner may extend an expiring license for 90 days to allow an applicant to submit additional evidence to satisfy continuing education requirements for renewal.

Corporate (Corporate License)

• A corporate license allows an officer of the corporation to engage in the business of real estate. Additional licenses must be obtained to authorize additional individuals.
• Only the individual to whom the license is issued is authorized to act as a licensee.

Partnerships and Branch Offices

• The California DRE does not issue real estate brokerage licenses to corporations. However, a partnership may perform acts for which a real estate broker's license is required, provided that each partner through whom the partnership performs such acts is a licensed real estate broker.
• A real estate broker license applicant who maintains more than one office in the state must obtain an additional license for each branch.

Mortgage Loan Originators

• A sales agent must have a mortgage loan originator license and be employed by a licensed real estate broker who holds a mortgage loan originator license.
• This allows real estate professionals to offer services related to mortgage loans.

Non-resident licenses

• A nonresident who meets all licensing requirements except residency may receive a license if the state of residence allows California residents to qualify for a license in that state (reciprocity).

These are the key license types in the California real estate industry, and each has specific requirements and responsibilities. Obtaining the proper license is essential to practicing legal and ethical activities in the field of real estate in California.