Which type of license is required for a person to legally engage in real estate transactions in California?

A real estate salesperson license is essential for an individual who wishes to legally engage in real estate transactions in California under the supervision of a licensed real estate broker. This license allows the holder to assist clients in buying, selling, or leasing properties, thus facilitating various types of real estate transactions.

While a real estate broker license is also required for those who want to operate independently and manage their own real estate business, the salesperson license is the foundational license that must be obtained first. It's important to note that the Realtor designation is not a type of license, but rather a professional affiliation with the National Association of Realtors (NAR), which signifies adherence to a specific code of ethics and can apply to licensed agents or brokers. The property manager license is more specialized and is not typically necessary for general real estate transactions.

Consequently, the real estate salesperson license is the correct answer, as it is the appropriate license for individuals starting their journey in the real estate industry in California.