- When You Must Submit a Statement With Your Application
- What the DRE Is Evaluating in Your Statement
- Structure and Format Requirements
- Example Statement for Criminal History Disclosure
- Example Statement for Credit or Bankruptcy Issues
- Example Statement for Prior License Discipline
- What to Include: Accountability, Rehabilitation, Current Circumstances
- What to Avoid: Excuses, Omissions, Inconsistencies
- Supporting Documentation to Attach
- How Statements Affect Application Processing Time
- Frequently Asked Questions
California Real Estate Agent: License Application Statement Examples - What to Write and What to Avoid (2026)
If your California real estate license application requires disclosing criminal history, credit problems, or prior disciplinary actions, you must submit a written statement explaining the circumstances. This guide provides california real estate license application statement examples, formatting tips, and strategic advice to help you present your situation professionally while demonstrating rehabilitation and accountability.
When You Must Submit a Statement With Your Application
The California Department of Real Estate (DRE) requires a written statement whenever you answer "yes" to any background questions on your salesperson or broker application. These disclosure triggers include:
- ☐Criminal convictions (felonies or misdemeanors)
- ☐Pending criminal charges
- ☐Denial, suspension, or revocation of any professional license
- ☐Bankruptcy filings within the past 10 years
- ☐Unpaid judgments or liens
- ☐Disciplinary action by another state's real estate licensing authority
Failing to disclose required information—even if you believe the matter was expunged or sealed—can result in automatic denial. The DRE conducts independent background checks and will discover omissions.
What the DRE Is Evaluating in Your Statement
The DRE reviews your statement to determine whether you possess the honesty, integrity, and trustworthiness required to hold a real estate license. Specifically, reviewers assess:
| Evaluation Factor | What They're Looking For |
|---|---|
| Honesty | Full, truthful disclosure matching official records |
| Accountability | Taking responsibility without deflecting blame |
| Rehabilitation | Evidence of personal growth and changed behavior |
| Time Elapsed | How long since the incident occurred |
| Relevance | Whether the conduct relates to real estate practice |
Structure and Format Requirements
Your statement should be professionally formatted and easy to read. Follow these guidelines for optimal presentation:
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1Use a Professional Format
Type your statement on plain white paper with 1-inch margins. Include your full legal name, date of birth, and application reference number at the top.
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2Keep It Concise
One to two pages is typically sufficient. Be thorough but avoid unnecessary details that don't serve your explanation.
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3Organize Chronologically
Present multiple incidents in order of occurrence. Address each disclosure question separately if you have more than one issue.
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4Sign and Date
Include your handwritten signature and the date at the bottom of your statement.
Example Statement for Criminal History Disclosure
Below is a sample statement structure for disclosing a criminal conviction. Adapt this framework to your specific circumstances:
"On March 15, 2019, I was convicted of DUI (Vehicle Code Section 23152(a)) in Los Angeles County Superior Court, Case No. BA123456. I received a sentence of three years probation, which I completed on March 14, 2022, along with a $1,800 fine and mandatory DUI education program.
I take full responsibility for my actions that night. I made the poor decision to drive after consuming alcohol at a friend's birthday party. No one was injured, and no property was damaged, but I understand the serious risk my actions posed to public safety.
Since this incident, I have made significant changes in my life. I completed a 12-week alcohol education program and have maintained complete sobriety for over five years. I now volunteer as a designated driver for community events and have mentored others in my support group about the consequences of impaired driving.
I am committed to upholding the highest ethical standards in my real estate career and demonstrating the trustworthiness required of a licensed professional."
Example Statement for Credit or Bankruptcy Issues
Financial difficulties require a different approach, focusing on circumstances, resolution, and current stability:
"I filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy protection on June 10, 2021, in the United States Bankruptcy Court, Central District of California, Case No. 2:21-bk-12345. My discharge was granted on September 28, 2021.
This bankruptcy resulted from a combination of unexpected medical expenses following a serious illness in 2020 and job loss during the pandemic. My total discharged debt was approximately $67,000, consisting primarily of medical bills and credit card debt accumulated during my recovery period.
Since receiving my discharge, I have rebuilt my financial stability. I am currently employed full-time, maintain a household budget, and have established a savings account with three months of emergency funds. My current credit score is 680, and I have no new delinquent accounts. I have completed a financial literacy course through a nonprofit credit counseling agency.
I understand that financial responsibility is essential in real estate practice, particularly when handling client trust funds. I am committed to maintaining the highest standards of financial integrity."
Example Statement for Prior License Discipline
If you've faced disciplinary action on another professional license, address it directly:
"In 2020, my California contractor's license (No. 987654) was suspended for 90 days by the Contractors State License Board for failure to maintain proper insurance coverage. The suspension period was August 1, 2020, through October 29, 2020.
This violation occurred due to an administrative oversight when I changed insurance carriers and failed to file the required documentation within the mandatory timeframe. I take full responsibility for not monitoring this compliance requirement more diligently.
I have since implemented calendar reminders and a compliance tracking system to ensure all licensing requirements are met well before deadlines. My contractor's license has been in good standing since reinstatement, with no subsequent violations. I understand the importance of maintaining all regulatory requirements and will apply this same diligence to my real estate license."
What to Include: Accountability, Rehabilitation, Current Circumstances
Every effective statement should incorporate these three essential elements:
Accountability
Accept responsibility without qualifications. Use phrases like "I take full responsibility" and "I made the decision to..." Avoid passive language that distances you from your actions.
Rehabilitation
Demonstrate concrete steps you've taken to address the underlying issues. This might include completing education programs, counseling, community service, or professional development courses.
Current Circumstances
Show where you are today. Highlight stable employment, family responsibilities, community involvement, and time elapsed since the incident. The DRE wants to see that you've grown and changed.
Include specific dates, case numbers, and outcomes. Vague statements raise red flags, while precise details demonstrate honesty and thoroughness.
What to Avoid: Excuses, Omissions, Inconsistencies
Certain approaches will harm your application. Avoid these common mistakes:
| Avoid This | Why It's Problematic |
|---|---|
| Blaming others | Shows lack of accountability |
| Minimizing the incident | Suggests you don't understand the seriousness |
| Omitting details | DRE will discover inconsistencies through background checks |
| Excessive detail about victims | Can appear as deflection or inappropriate |
| Legal jargon | Write in plain, honest language |
| Emotional appeals | Focus on facts and rehabilitation, not sympathy |
"The charges were unfair" or "My attorney told me to plead guilty even though I wasn't." These statements undermine your credibility and suggest you haven't accepted responsibility.
Supporting Documentation to Attach
Strengthen your statement by including relevant documentation:
- ☐Certified court documents showing case disposition
- ☐Proof of probation completion
- ☐Certificates from rehabilitation programs or classes
- ☐Bankruptcy discharge papers
- ☐Character reference letters (2-3 recommended)
- ☐Employment verification letters
- ☐Community service documentation
How Statements Affect Application Processing Time
Applications requiring disclosure review take longer to process than standard applications:
A well-prepared statement with complete documentation can expedite review. Incomplete submissions often result in requests for additional information, further delaying your application.
Submit your statement and all supporting documents together with your initial application. Sending materials separately can cause matching delays and extend processing time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to disclose expunged convictions?
Yes. California Business and Professions Code requires disclosure of all convictions, including those that have been expunged, dismissed, or set aside. The DRE will discover these through fingerprint-based background checks regardless of whether you disclose them.
How far back does the DRE look at criminal history?
The DRE reviews your complete criminal history with no time limitation. However, more recent incidents are weighted more heavily than older ones. Demonstrating a long period without incidents strengthens your application.
Can I get my license with a felony conviction?
Possibly. The DRE evaluates each application individually based on the nature of the offense, time elapsed, evidence of rehabilitation, and relationship to real estate practice. Some felonies are more likely to result in denial than others.
Should I hire an attorney to write my statement?
For complex cases involving multiple incidents or serious offenses, consulting a licensing attorney can be beneficial. However, your statement should be in your own voice and demonstrate personal accountability, not read like a legal brief.
What if I don't remember exact dates or case numbers?
Obtain official court records or request your criminal history from the California Department of Justice before submitting your application. Inaccurate information can appear deceptive, even if unintentional.
Will a DUI automatically disqualify me?
A single DUI typically will not disqualify you, especially if several years have passed and you can demonstrate rehabilitation. Multiple DUIs or a DUI combined with other issues may face more scrutiny.
Can I appeal if my application is denied?
Yes. If the DRE denies your application, you have the right to request an administrative hearing. Consider consulting a licensing attorney if you receive a denial notice.
Jessie Pooler is a licensed California real estate educator and Certified Distance Education Instructor (CDEI) with Premier Courses. She specializes in helping aspiring agents navigate California's licensing requirements and build successful real estate careers in the Golden State.
