In order to obtain a California real estate salesperson license you must be at least 18 years old. You must also provide proof that you are legally present in the United States although you do not have to be a legal resident of California. You must also disclose any criminal history on your application. Conviction of a crime or failure to disclose a criminal history may be grounds for denial of the license.
You must successfully complete three college-level courses in order to take the salesperson examination. You must take "Real Estate Principles", "Real Estate Practice" and a third course from the approved list found on the Department of Real Estate's website. Persons who have received a JD or LLM degree are usually exempt from the education requirements.
You must apply to take the salesperson examination by completing the Salesperson Examination Application--RE 400A--and pay the required fee of $60, as of 2010. Successful completion of the examination is required to receive a license.