Key Takeaways
- To become a real estate salesperson in California, you must complete 135 hours of California Department of Real Estate (DRE) approved coursework.
- Glendale students can choose between local in-person programs and fully online, self-paced licensing schools.
- Top schools stand out based on DRE approval, pricing transparency, pass-rate support, instructor access, and exam prep tools.
- Course packages typically range from $150 to $700 depending on format, support, and included exam preparation materials.
- Choosing the right school depends on your schedule, learning style, and need for live guidance versus self-paced study.
How to Choose a Real Estate School in Glendale
Finding the best real estate licensing school in Glendale, California means evaluating more than just price. You need a DRE-approved provider that prepares you for both the state exam and the realities of working in the competitive Los Angeles County market.
California Real Estate License Requirements
Before comparing schools, understand the basics. The California DRE requires:
- 135 hours of pre-licensing education
- Three required courses: Real Estate Principles, Real Estate Practice, and one elective
- Passing the California Real Estate Salesperson Exam
- Submitting fingerprints and a background check
All schools listed below offer DRE-approved coursework that fulfills these requirements.
Best Real Estate Licensing Schools in Glendale, California
The following schools are either located in Glendale or widely used by Glendale residents. They are ranked based on reputation, value, flexibility, student support, and exam preparation quality.
School Format Estimated Cost Best For Allied Schools Online, Self-Paced $300 to $700 Comprehensive exam prep Kaplan Real Estate Education Online + Live Online $400 to $800 Structured learning and instructor support CA Realty Training Online + Classroom Options $150 to $400 Budget-conscious students Glendale Community College In-Person + Online Varies by unit Academic environment learners Real Estate Trainers Live Crash Courses $250 to $500 Exam-focused bootcamp prep
1. Allied Schools
Allied Schools is one of California’s most established real estate education providers. Their programs are 100 percent DRE-approved and designed for online learners.
Strengths:
- Interactive study tools and practice exams
- Exam prep packages with pass support
- Mobile-friendly platform
Allied is ideal for Glendale residents who want flexibility while balancing work or family commitments.
2. Kaplan Real Estate Education
Kaplan is nationally recognized and offers both self-paced and instructor-led online options. Students benefit from structured lesson plans and scheduled live classes.
Strengths:
- Experienced instructors
- Live Q and A sessions
- Strong reputation for exam preparation
This option suits students who prefer guided instruction rather than studying independently.
3. CA Realty Training
Popular throughout Southern California, CA Realty Training offers affordable course bundles and multiple learning formats.
Strengths:
- Lower-cost packages
- Flexible online and in-person options
- Livestream crash courses
This school often appeals to first-time students looking for a budget-friendly but DRE-compliant solution.
4. Glendale Community College
For students who prefer a traditional academic setting, Glendale Community College offers real estate courses that align with DRE requirements.
Strengths:
- Structured semester schedule
- Access to campus resources
- College credit courses
This path may take longer depending on semester availability but provides a strong educational foundation.
5. Real Estate Trainers
Real Estate Trainers specializes in intensive exam prep and fast-track programs. Their crash courses are particularly helpful for students preparing to sit for the state exam.
Strengths:
- Focused salesperson exam preparation
- Live instruction and review sessions
- Test-taking strategy coaching
Online vs In-Person Classes in Glendale
Online Programs
- Study at your own pace
- Ideal for working professionals
- Often more affordable
In-Person Programs
- Direct instructor interaction
- Structured schedule for accountability
- Networking with local classmates
Most Glendale students choose online schools due to flexibility, but classroom learners often benefit from the accountability of scheduled sessions.
What Makes a Real Estate School “The Best”
DRE Approval
Always verify the provider is approved by the California Department of Real Estate. Without DRE approval, your coursework will not qualify you to sit for the exam.
Transparent Pricing
The best schools clearly outline total costs, including textbooks, exam prep, and final exams. Avoid programs that charge hidden proctoring or processing fees.
Exam Preparation Tools
High-quality question banks, simulated exams, and crash courses significantly increase pass readiness.
Student Support
Access to instructors, tutoring, or career support can make a major difference, especially for first-time test takers.
Career Outlook for Real Estate Agents in Glendale
Glendale sits within Los Angeles County, one of the largest real estate markets in the United States. According to California labor data, real estate professionals in Los Angeles County can earn well above the national average depending on performance and commission structures.
The city’s housing mix includes condominiums, luxury homes, and commercial properties. Proximity to Burbank, Pasadena, and Downtown Los Angeles creates diverse opportunities for new agents entering the field.
Many licensing schools also offer continuing education courses, which are required every four years for salesperson license renewal in California.
Steps to Get Licensed in Glendale, California
- Complete 135 hours of DRE-approved coursework.
- Submit the Salesperson Examination Application to the California DRE.
- Pass the state licensing exam.
- Apply for your real estate license and complete fingerprinting.
- Activate your license under a supervising broker.
Testing centers are available throughout Los Angeles County, making scheduling accessible for Glendale residents.
Costs to Expect Beyond Tuition
- Exam fee: Approximately $60
- License application fee: Approximately $245
- Fingerprinting: $50 to $70
- Association and MLS fees after joining a brokerage
Understanding the full financial picture helps you budget realistically before beginning classes.
Frequently Asked Questions about Glendale Real Estate Schools
How many hours of coursework do you need to get a real estate license in Glendale, California?
You must complete 135 hours of California Department of Real Estate (DRE) approved pre-licensing education, including Real Estate Principles, Real Estate Practice, and one elective course.
How much does a real estate school in Glendale usually cost?
Most course packages range from about $150 to $700, depending on whether you choose online or in-person classes, live instructor support, and how much exam prep is included.
Is it better to take online or in-person real estate classes in Glendale?
If you need flexibility and want to study on your own schedule, online classes work well. If you learn best with structure, live lectures, and face-to-face questions, an in-person or live online classroom may be a better fit.
How long does it take to become a real estate agent in Glendale?
If you move quickly through the 135 hours of coursework and schedule your exam right away, you can often get licensed in about 3 to 6 months. Community college paths may take longer due to semester schedules.
What should you look for when choosing a Glendale real estate school?
Check for DRE approval, clear pricing, strong exam prep tools, and access to instructors or support. Also make sure the format fits your schedule and learning style, whether that is self-paced online or live classes.
What are the main costs to get your California real estate license besides tuition?
You should budget for the state exam fee (about $60), the license application fee (about $245), fingerprinting ($50 to $70), and later, association and MLS fees when you join a brokerage.










