What does DRE mean in REAL ESTATE

The Department of Real Estate provides a variety of services to its customers. These include issuing licenses to qualified individuals; providing information on registering property with the county recorder's office; investigating consumer complaints related to real estate activities; and conducting criminal background checks for those seeking licensure.

To be eligible for a real estate license, an individual must complete certain educational requirements and pass an exam administered by the DRE. The exam tests applicants' knowledge of all aspects of real estate related law and practice in California. Additionally, applicants must have completed 18 semester units in specified topics including trust fund handling procedures and agency law before becoming licensed.

Complaints against brokers or agents may be filed with the DRE online through its Public Inquiry Form on its website or via mail or fax. Complainants will need to provide detailed information regarding their complaint, so they should be prepared to provide documents such as contracts, letters of intent and other pertinent records.

Yes! Licensed brokers can use BRE eLicensing Online Services to renew their licenses online if they have met certain qualifications such as continuing education requirements. Applicants will need to submit payment online at the time of renewal.

Yes! Depending on the severity of violations committed by an individual licensee, penalties may include fines imposed by regulatory agencies as well as disciplinary action from administrative bodies such as revocation or suspension of licenses.