Illinois Real Estate CE Requirements (2026)
Illinois real estate agents must complete 12 hours of continuing education every 2 years to renew their license.
Quick Summary
CE Hour Breakdown
Illinois requires real estate agents to complete their CE hours in specific categories. Here is the full breakdown:
| Category | Hours |
|---|---|
core Core continuing education course | 6 |
elective Elective CE (includes Sexual Harassment Prevention Training) | 6 |
| Total | 12 |
Important Details
12 hours every 2 years. 6-hour Core course plus 6 hours elective. Sexual Harassment Prevention Training counts toward elective hours.
Tips for Illinois 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 Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation 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 Illinois Real Estate License
Follow these steps to renew your real estate license in Illinois:
- Check your expiry date
Log in to the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation website or check your physical license to find your expiration date. Mark it on your calendar so you do not miss it.
- Complete your 12 required CE hours
Finish all 12 CE hours from board-approved providers before your license expires. Use AgentCE to track your progress by category.
- Visit the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation website
Go to the board's online renewal portal. Most states allow you to renew entirely online.
- Pay the $200 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
- Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
Frequently Asked Questions
How many CE hours do real estate agents need in Illinois?
Illinois requires 12 continuing education hours every 2 years.
How much does it cost to renew a real estate license in Illinois?
The renewal fee for a Illinois real estate license is $200.
What is the renewal cycle for Illinois real estate licenses?
Illinois real estate licenses renew every 2 years.
Can I do my Illinois real estate CE hours online?
Most states accept online CE courses from board-approved providers. Check with the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation to confirm which online providers are approved in Illinois.
Where do I renew my real estate license in Illinois?
You can renew through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation website. Most renewals are available online.
What happens if my Illinois real estate license expires?
Practicing with an expired license in Illinois 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 Illinois?
Illinois maintains a list of approved continuing education providers through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Always verify that your CE provider is board-approved before enrolling to make sure your hours count toward renewal.
How long does Illinois real estate license renewal take?
Online renewals through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation are typically processed within a few business days. Allow extra time if you are renewing by mail or if your renewal requires document review.
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