Real Estate Continuing Education Guide
Stay compliant and keep your license active. CE requirements, approved providers, and tips for every state.
Why Continuing Education Matters
Stay Licensed
CE is required to renew your license. Missing requirements can result in suspension.
Stay Current
Laws and practices change. CE keeps you informed about legal updates and industry trends.
Grow Your Career
CE can help you specialize, improve skills, and provide better service to clients.
Don't Let Your License Expire
Practicing without a valid license is illegal and can result in fines, loss of commissions, and permanent license revocation. Complete CE before your renewal deadline.
CE Requirements by State
Each state has different CE hour requirements, renewal cycles, and mandatory topics.
| State | Hours/Cycle | Required Topics |
|---|---|---|
| California | 45 hours/4 years | Ethics, agency, fair housing, trust funds |
| Texas | 18 hours/2 years | Legal updates, ethics, contract updates |
| Florida | 14 hours/2 years | Core law, specialty CE |
| New York | 22.5 hours/2 years | Fair housing, agency, legal updates |
| Arizona | 24 hours/2 years | Commissioner standards, legal issues |
| Illinois | 12 hours/2 years | Core curriculum, electives |
Requirements vary. Check your state's real estate commission for current requirements.
Common CE Topics
Fair Housing Laws
Often RequiredFederal and state fair housing requirements, discrimination prevention
Agency Relationships
Often RequiredDuties to clients, disclosure requirements, dual agency rules
Contract Law Updates
Changes to standard forms, new legal requirements
Ethics & Professional Standards
Often RequiredIndustry best practices, NAR Code of Ethics
Risk Management
Avoiding liability, E&O insurance, documentation best practices
Technology & Marketing
Digital marketing, social media compliance, CRM systems
Tips for Staying Compliant
Track Your Deadline
Set calendar reminders 60-90 days before your renewal date to avoid last-minute scrambling.
Complete Early
Don't wait until the deadline. Complete CE courses throughout the year to avoid stress.
Keep Certificates
Save all completion certificates digitally. You may need to provide proof during an audit.
Choose Quality Providers
Use state-approved providers. Courses from unapproved sources won't count toward renewal.
Online vs. In-Person CE
Online Courses
- Complete on your own schedule
- Often less expensive
- Instant certificate delivery
- No in-person networking
In-Person Classes
- Networking with other agents
- Direct instructor interaction
- Structured learning environment
- Fixed schedule requirements
Most states accept both online and in-person CE. Check your state's specific requirements.
Find Your State's Requirements
CE requirements vary by state. Check your specific requirements to stay compliant.
Browse State Requirements