Yes—you can complete California real estate school from home. California allows the required pre-licensing education to be taken online through state-approved courses, so you do not need to attend a physical classroom to get started. For many people, this is the easiest way to fit real estate school into a work, family, or busy schedule. Start your journey with LEAP's California real estate pre-licensing course.

For a California salesperson license, you must complete 135 hours of qualifying education made up of three required courses: Real Estate Principles, Real Estate Practice, and one elective from the state-approved list. An online school can cover all of these requirements, but make sure the provider is approved by the California Department of Real Estate (DRE). If you later choose to earn your license, you’ll also need to pass the state exam, submit an application, and complete a background check. Because California’s process includes both education and licensing steps, the timeline can vary depending on how quickly you finish coursework and schedule your exam.

Cost also depends on the school you choose. Online pre-licensing packages often range from budget-friendly options to more complete programs with study tools, practice exams, and support. If you want to compare options, look at how the course is delivered, whether it includes exam prep, and whether it is fully DRE-compliant. Those details matter more than price alone because they can affect how confident you feel when it’s time to test.

If you’re ready to begin, a California real estate pre-licensing course is a practical next step. A structured online program can help you meet the state requirements at your own pace while staying focused on exam readiness.