EstatePass
State Comparison

California vs Minnesota

Compare real estate exam requirements, costs, and career potential between California and Minnesota

CA Salary
$68K
MN Salary
$53K
CA Pass Rate
51%
MN Pass Rate
56%

CA vs MN At a Glance

CategoryCalifornia (CA)Minnesota (MN)
Exam Questions150130
Passing Score70%75%
Exam Fee$100$68
Pass Rate51%56%
Avg Salary$68,000$53,000
Renewal PeriodEvery 4 years—
CE Hours45 hours—

Detailed Comparison

Exam Format
CA
MN
Salesperson Questions
150
130
Time Limit
180 min
240 min
Passing Score
70%
75%
Costs & Fees
CA
MN
Exam Fee
$100
$68
Career Potential
CA
MN
Average Salary
$68,000
$53,000
Pass Rate
51%
56%
License Renewal
CA
MN
Renewal Period
—
—
CE Hours Required
—
—

Licensing Authorities

CA
California Department of Real Estate
DRE
MN
Minnesota Department of Commerce
MDC

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is easier: California or Minnesota real estate exam?

The California exam has 150 questions with a 70% passing score, while Minnesota has 130 questions with a 75% passing score. Minnesota typically has a higher first-attempt pass rate.

Can I transfer my real estate license from California to Minnesota?

License reciprocity varies. Some states offer partial reciprocity where you may only need to take the state-specific portion of the exam. Check with both the DRE and MDC for current reciprocity agreements.

Which state pays more for real estate agents: California or Minnesota?

California real estate agents earn an average of $68,000 annually, while Minnesota agents average $53,000. However, consider cost of living and market conditions in your decision.

How much does it cost to get a real estate license in California vs Minnesota?

The exam fee in California is $100, while Minnesota charges $68. Total licensing costs including pre-license education, application fees, and background checks typically range from $400-$1,000 in both states.

What are the CE requirements for California vs Minnesota?

Renewal cycles and CE hours are set by DRE and MDC. Both states require completion of CE before license renewal.

Can I hold a real estate license in both California and Minnesota?

Yes, you can hold licenses in multiple states. You would need to meet each state's individual requirements, including education, exams, and fees. Some agents who work in border areas maintain licenses in both states to serve more clients.

Ready to Start Your Real Estate Career?

Whether you choose California or Minnesota, EstatePass has you covered with comprehensive exam prep materials.