California Real Estate CE Requirements (2026)
California real estate agents must complete 45 hours of continuing education every 4 years to renew their license.
Quick Summary
CE Hour Breakdown
California requires real estate agents to complete their CE hours in specific categories. Here is the full breakdown:
| Category | Hours |
|---|---|
ethics Ethics | 3 |
agency Agency | 3 |
trust fund Trust fund handling | 3 |
risk management Risk management | 3 |
fair housing Fair housing and implicit bias training | 3 |
management Management and supervision (brokers) | 3 |
consumer protection Consumer protection courses | 18 |
elective Consumer service or consumer protection electives | 9 |
| Total | 45 |
Important Details
45 hours every 4 years. Mandatory topics include ethics, agency, trust funds, risk management, fair housing, and implicit bias. 18 hours minimum in consumer protection.
Tips for California Real Estate Agents
- Start your CE hours early in the renewal cycle. Do not wait until the last few months.
- Keep copies of all CE certificates. The board may audit your records at any time.
- Make sure your CE provider is approved by the California Department of Real Estate before enrolling.
- Use AgentCE to track your hours by category so you know exactly where you stand.
- Consider completing required categories first, then fill in electives.
How to Renew Your California Real Estate License
Follow these steps to renew your real estate license in California:
- Check your expiry date
Log in to the California Department of Real Estate website or check your physical license to find your expiration date. Mark it on your calendar so you do not miss it.
- Complete your 45 required CE hours
Finish all 45 CE hours from board-approved providers before your license expires. Use AgentCE to track your progress by category.
- Visit the California Department of Real Estate website
Go to the board's online renewal portal. Most states allow you to renew entirely online.
- Pay the $245 renewal fee
Submit your renewal fee online by credit card or electronic check. Keep your payment confirmation for your records.
- Save your confirmation
Download or print your renewal confirmation. Your updated license or pocket card will arrive by mail or be available for download within a few weeks.
State Board Information
- Board Name
- California Department of Real Estate
- Website
- https://www.dre.ca.gov
Frequently Asked Questions
How many CE hours do real estate agents need in California?
California requires 45 continuing education hours every 4 years.
How much does it cost to renew a real estate license in California?
The renewal fee for a California real estate license is $245.
What is the renewal cycle for California real estate licenses?
California real estate licenses renew every 4 years.
Can I do my California real estate CE hours online?
Most states accept online CE courses from board-approved providers. Check with the California Department of Real Estate to confirm which online providers are approved in California.
Where do I renew my real estate license in California?
You can renew through the California Department of Real Estate website. Most renewals are available online.
What happens if my California real estate license expires?
Practicing with an expired license in California can result in fines or disciplinary action. Most states have a grace period of 30 to 90 days where you can still renew with a late fee. After that, reinstatement may require additional hours and fees.
What are the approved CE providers in California?
California maintains a list of approved continuing education providers through the California Department of Real Estate. Always verify that your CE provider is board-approved before enrolling to make sure your hours count toward renewal.
How long does California real estate license renewal take?
Online renewals through the California Department of Real Estate are typically processed within a few business days. Allow extra time if you are renewing by mail or if your renewal requires document review.
Track Your CE Hours
AgentCE automatically knows California's requirements and tracks your progress. Free for one license.
Start Tracking Free