Q:  How do I become a licensed real estate professional in the state of California?
A:  The Department of Real Estate (DRE) is the real estate licensing and regulatory authority for the state of California.CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF REAL ESTATE (DRE)
The DRE mission is:

"To protect the public in real estate transactions and provide related services to the real estate industry"

Real Estate Salesperson  and Real Estate Broker minimum requirements to obtain a real estate license, are as follows:

• You must first qualify for and pass a written examination.
  Those who pass the examination are provided a license application which must be submitted to and approved by the DRE.

Q:  How do I renew my real estate license?  Is there a convenient way to renew my license? 
A:  CAR.'s got you covered...C.A.R.'s license renewal programs offer both online and traditional resources for your convenience.C.A.R. LICENSE RENEWAL PROGRAMS

C.A.R.'s DRE approved courses are offered in Home Study Binders and online for both salespersons and brokers.  Home Study Binders are available through your local Association of REALTORS® and at store.car.org, or online license renewals are available at rebsonline.com.