04/01/2021 - California

How to Renew Your Real Estate License in California (Spoiler: You Need Continuing Education!)

Written by Tessa Sims

Follow The Steps

  1. Complete 45 hours of continuing education.
  2. Submit the renewal application online.
  3. Pay the renewal fee of $245.

Q&A

What happens if you let your real estate license expire?

You can renew your California real estate license late, however you are subject to additional fees.

Can you renew your real estate license in CA after it expires?

The simple answer is yes.

How much does it cost to renew a real estate license in CA?

  • Salesperson license: $245
  • Broker license: $300

How long does a real estate license last?

A California real estate license lasts for 4 years.

How Often Do You Need to Renew Your Real Estate License? 

In the state of California, the Department of Real Estate (DRE) requires real estate agents and brokers to renew their licenses every four years. When you renew, you’ll need to send proof that you’ve completed the continuing education requirements along with your application. 

How Much Continuing Education is Required? 

To satisfy state license renewal requirements, licensees must complete 45 hours of DRE-approved training: 

Salesperson – For salesperson licensees, required courses include ethics, agency, fair housing, trust fund handling, and risk management, and 18 hours of consumer protection courses. 

Broker – Broker licensees must complete the above continuing education courses as well as management and supervision training. 

Although the topics remain the same, the course format may vary depending on whether it’s your first time renewing or a subsequent renewal period. 

Continuing Education at Agent Real Estate Schools 

We’ve got all the state-regulated materials you need. Our continuing education courses are designed for independent, online learning and can be accessed from any device. When you enroll, you’ll get downloadable PDF documents, and your quizzes and exams will be online. A physical book is available for purchase if needed. 

Our first-time renewal package includes: 

  • Real Estate Contracts (12 hrs)  
  • Disclosure Obligations (12 hrs)  
  • Agency (3 hrs)  
  • Ethics (3 hrs)  
  • Fair Housing (3 hrs)  
  • Trust Funds (3 hrs)  
  • Risk Management (3 hrs)  
  • Management & Supervision (3 hrs)  
  • Financing & TRID (3 hrs) 

Subsequent renewals include the following courses: 

  • Real Estate Contracts (12 Hours) 
  • Disclosure Obligations (12 Hours) 
  • Investment Property Analysis (7 Hours) 
  • Real Estate Red Flags (6 Hours) 
  • 8-Hour Survey Course (8 Hours)* 

*Our 8-Hour Survey Course covers the mandatory subjects of Agency, Ethics, Fair Housing, Risk Management, Trust Fund Handling, and Management & Supervision. 

How to Renew Your Real Estate License 

Be sure to start the process early enough to complete the required education credits and the renewal before your license expires. Although the DRE sends out renewal reminders about two months ahead of time, it’s up to you to renew, even if you don’t receive the letter. You can’t perform real estate transactions if your license has expired. 

Ensure your continuing education is complete and verified. Then head on over to the DRE website where you’ll find the CE forms and application. Complete the DRE Continuing Education Course Verification (RE 251). Submit the form, along with your payment and renewal. You can apply for renewal through the e-Licensing portal or mail your course verification, payment, and salesperson or broker renewal application, to the DRE. 

As long as your online renewal or your mailed application postmark is dated before your license expiry date, it will be considered on-time. Otherwise, you will need to apply for a renewal extension. 

Real Estate Pre-License Training 

Of course, if you know anyone considering a career in real estate, KW Real Estate Schools, Inc., is your premier source for pre-license training too. Whether you prefer independent, online learning or a more social, in-class environment, our Fast-Track and Group Study courses offer flexible, comprehensive study options. With the included 1100+ practice questions and the interactive 1-Day Prep, state licensing exam preparation is a breeze! 

For more information about any of our course offerings, visit our website and contact us today! To find out more about becoming a real estate agent, contact Agent Real Estate Schools. Reach us at (858) 329-0999 or email us at [email protected].