HowToGetLicensed

Real Estate Agent License: California vs North Carolina

Thinking about getting your real estate agent license? Here's how California and North Carolina compare on education requirements, exam fees, total costs, and renewal obligations.

Requirement California North Carolina
Education Hours 135 hours 75 hours
Exam California Real Estate Salesperson Exam North Carolina Real Estate Salesperson Exam
Application Fee $245 $100
Exam Fee $60 $56
Total Estimated Cost $1,385 - $2,330 $756 - $1,281
Renewal Period Every 4 years Every 1 year
CE Hours 45 hours 8 hours
Renewal Fee $245 $45

Which State Is Easier or Cheaper?

Lower cost: North Carolina is the more affordable option, with an average total cost of $756-$1,281 compared to $1,385-$2,330.

Fewer education hours: North Carolina requires 75 hours of pre-license education, compared to 135 hours in California.

Full State Guides

Compare real estate agent requirements across all 50 states →