EstatePass
State Comparison

California vs North Dakota

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

CA Salary
$68K
ND Salary
$48K
CA Pass Rate
51%
ND Pass Rate
62%

CA vs ND At a Glance

CategoryCalifornia (CA)North Dakota (ND)
Exam Questions150140
Passing Score70%70%
Exam Fee$100$134
Pass Rate51%62%
Avg Salary$68,000$48,000
Renewal PeriodEvery 4 yearsβ€”
CE Hours45 hoursβ€”

Detailed Comparison

Exam Format
CA
ND
Salesperson Questions
150
140
Time Limit
180 min
240 min
Passing Score
70%
70%
Costs & Fees
CA
ND
Exam Fee
$100
$134
Career Potential
CA
ND
Average Salary
$68,000
$48,000
Pass Rate
51%
62%
License Renewal
CA
ND
Renewal Period
β€”
β€”
CE Hours Required
β€”
β€”

Licensing Authorities

CA
California Department of Real Estate
DRE
ND
North Dakota Real Estate Commission
NDREC

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is easier: California or North Dakota real estate exam?

The California exam has 150 questions with a 70% passing score, while North Dakota has 140 questions with a 70% passing score. North Dakota typically has a higher first-attempt pass rate.

Can I transfer my real estate license from California to North Dakota?

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 NDREC for current reciprocity agreements.

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

California real estate agents earn an average of $68,000 annually, while North Dakota agents average $48,000. 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 North Dakota?

The exam fee in California is $100, while North Dakota charges $134. 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 North Dakota?

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

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

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 North Dakota, EstatePass has you covered with comprehensive exam prep materials.