Are you thinking about applying for a real estate salesperson license in California? If so, review these tips below.
1. DON’T Omit Information
Failing to disclose pertinent information can cause substantial delays in the processing of your license application and may result in the denial of your application. Also keep in mind that Applicants should answer all questions truthfully and thoroughly. Any material misrepresentation in an application for a real estate license may be grounds for denial under Business and Professions Code §10177(a). READ ALL QUESTIONS CAREFULLY.
2. DON’T Leave Out Criminal Convictions, No Matter How Old.
An Applicant must disclose all information regarding past license discipline, convictions, pending criminal charges etc. Failure to inform the DRE of these offenses is a definite ground for denial.
In the event you have one or more offenses to report, please take extra care to disclose all actions and convictions regardless of how long ago they occurred, or whether or not a conviction has been expunged under Penal Code Section 1203.4, or a similar statute.
The bad news is that convictions for crimes “substantially related to the qualifications, functions, or duties or a real estate licensee,” the DRE Commissioner may deny the issuance of a license to an applicant even if it was disclosed. (Business and Professions Code §10177(b)). For this reason, it is important to try to get your conviction(s) expunged prior to submitting your application.
3. DO Disclose Juvenile Convictions.
As explained in Tip 2, the DRE expects Applicants to disclose ALL criminal violations. Even convictions that occurred while you were a minor must be disclosed unless the record has been sealed under Section 1203.45 of the California Penal Code or Section 781 of the California Welfare and Institutions Code.
4. DO Keep in Mind the DRE Completes Background Checks on ALL License Applicants.
Before issuing your license, the DRE will conduct a thorough background check including on all license applicants. This includes reports from the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Keep in mind that the DRE will continue to receive reports on criminal violations committed even after your license is issued. Subsequent violations may result in disciplinary action being taken against the license after you’ve received it.
Remember, it’s better, safer and more cost efficient to complete the application correctly the first time. If you need help, CALL OUR OFFICE! (310) 416-9800.
Check back next month for an article explaining what it means to hold a “Restricted” real estate license from the California DRE and how restricted real estate licenses differ from non restricted licenses.
