We work with a lot of investors in our brokerage, but the successful investors we work with know what they are looking for and we help facilitate their transactions.  

If you have a brokerage in mind speak with them and they will likely have classes in house or will have recommendations. 

If you get a 70 or higher, you pass... provide your identification and get fingerprinted and you are ready to enter the market.If you plan on focusing on being just a Realtor, look at the big box brands and see how they will train you in the craft.If you are looking to also be an investor, then look for an investor friendly Brokerage to join.The investor side has a totally different focus and toolset than the traditional type entity.Good luck.

I went to the brokerage and asked to speak with their broker manager.

Once you do well, find a cheaper brokerage if you aren't going to build a team.

I know in CA if you're going to be a licensed brokerage you cannot be an LLC, but you're just looking to create an entity to flip homes.

License with a General Real Estate Brokerage.

To screen agents you would ask for a license number, name, and brokerage name.I would not recommend eliminating any buyers, agent or no agent!  

My opinion is get your license as cheaply as possible and then get with a good brokerage that offers classes/training/support.

@Julia Vang Hart: Just like anything else, it all boils down to money... all the custodians I have dealt with have their good and back (both self directed IRA and brokerage firms).