As a California real estate attorney and licensed broker with over 12 years of experience drafting and reviewing agency disclosure forms, I can tell you that the Disclosure Regarding Real Estate Agency Relationship (commonly called the AD form) and the dual agency disclosure California rules are two of the most frequently misunderstood requirements in our state. Getting these wrong can cost agents their commission, trigger disciplinary action by the Department of Real Estate (DRE), or even expose everyone to lawsuits.
In this comprehensive guide, I’m giving you the exact, up-to-date 2025 version of the California Association of Realtors® (C.A.R.) Form AD along with the separate Confirmation of Agency Relationships that satisfies Civil Code § 2079.14–2079.24. You can download both for free below — no email required.
Important Disclaimer: This article and the attached templates are for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Always consult a licensed California real estate attorney or your own attorney or broker for advice specific to your transaction.
California Civil Code § 2079.13 et seq. requires that every listing agent and selling agent provide a written disclosure regarding real estate agency relationship to the buyer and seller before they sign a representation agreement or make/accept an offer. This is commonly known as the “Agency Disclosure Form” or Form AD.
The law applies to all residential transactions involving 1–4 units, including leases with an option to purchase. Failure to provide and obtain a signed acknowledgment can void the right to compensation and expose the agent to DRE discipline (see California DRE Agency Disclosure Chart).
Dual agency disclosure California becomes critical when the same brokerage (or in some cases the same individual agent) represents both the buyer and the seller in the same transaction. California is one of the few states that permits dual agency, but only with informed written consent from both parties (Civil Code § 2079.21).
The standard C.A.R. Form AD contains the required statutory language, and most multiple-listing purchase agreements now include an additional “Confirmation of Agency” section that satisfies the separate consent requirement for dual agency.
Although many agents still search for “California real estate disclosure checklist 2018,” the core Agency Disclosure Law has not changed since the major 2018–2019 NAR settlement-related updates. However:
Source: C.A.R. Legal Q&A – Agency Disclosure 2025 and California Civil Code § 2079.16
Click the button below to instantly download the fillable PDF version I personally use in my brokerage:
Download 2025 C.A.R. Form AD (Free Fillable PDF)
Download Confirmation of Agency Relationships Addendum (Dual Agency Consent)
Both files are the current January 2025 revisions approved by the California Association of Realtors® and compliant with Civil Code and DRE regulations.
| Transaction Stage | Who Receives Form AD | Deadline | Required Signatures |
|---|---|---|---|
| Listing Appointment | Seller/ Landlord | Before signing listing agreement | Seller acknowledges receipt |
| First substantive discussion with buyer | Buyer/Tenant | Before buyer signs representation agreement or offer | Buyer acknowledges receipt |
| Before presenting offer | Both parties (again if needed) | Prior to offer presentation | Both acknowledge relationships |
| Dual agency situation arises | Both buyer and seller | Immediately upon discovery | Written consent via Confirmation section |
Source: DRE Reference Book – Agency (2024–2025 edition)
In my 12+ years reviewing E&O claims, these are the top errors I see:
Is dual agency illegal in California?
No. Dual agency is expressly permitted with informed written consent (Civil Code § 2079.17).
Do I need a separate dual agency consent form?
The current C.A.R. purchase agreement and Form AD include the required language, but many brokerages require the standalone “Confirmation” for clarity.
Does the AD form have to be the C.A.R. version?
No, but it must contain the exact statutory language in Civil Code § 2079.16. Custom forms increase risk.
What if the buyer refuses to sign the disclosure?
You cannot proceed with representation or submit an offer until acknowledgment is obtained (see DRE v. Salazar, 2019).
The Disclosure Regarding Real Estate Agency Relationships> is not just another piece of paperwork — it’s the foundation of lawful agency in California. By providing the correct form at the correct time (and obtaining signatures), you satisfy the law, reduce liability, and protect your right to compensation.
Download the free 2025 templates above, bookmark this page for future transactions, and feel free to reach out to your broker or legal hotline with specific scenarios.
Remember: This article is educational only and not legal advice. For transaction-specific guidance, consult your managing broker or a qualified California real estate attorney.
© 2025 – All templates provided “as-is” with no warranty. Last updated November 2025.