How soon can I renew my California real estate license?

​The DRE recommends that you submit your renewal application online using the eLicensing Online System. You also have the option of mailing in a completed Salesperson Renewal Application. You must submit a Continuing Education Course Verification form and pay the required renewal fee.

​If you renew your license on-time, the renewal fee is $245. If you are late to renew your license (within 2 years after your license expiration date), the renewal fee is $367.

A California real estate license must be renewed every four years.

​For the second or subsequent renewal of your real estate license, you must complete 45-hours of CE consisting of: 1, 8-hour survey course covering the six mandatory subjects. A minimum of 18-hours of consumer protection courses. The remaining hours may be related to consumer service or consumer protection courses.

First-time renewals must complete 45-hours of CE. This includes 5 separate 3-hour courses in Ethics, Agency, Trust Fund Handling, Fair Housing, and Risk Management; a minimum of 18-hours of consumer protection courses; and the remaining hours may be related to consumer service or consumer protection courses.

​You can renew your California real estate salespersons license up to 90 days prior to the expiration date listed on your license. As a courtesy, the DRE will mail you a renewal reminder around 60 days prior to your license expiration date.

​If you fail to renew your real estate license on time, your license will be considered inactive and you will not be able to perform any activities requiring a real estate license. However, the DRE does allow you up to two years to renew your license after your license expiration date.

​It typically takes the DRE at least 6 weeks to process your renewal application. However, your license renewal will be considered on-time if your eLicensing renewal submission is completed, or your application is postmarked before midnight of your license expiration date.

​If you fail to renew your license within two years of your license expiration date, you will have to retake the state licensing exam and re-apply for a new real estate license.