Maintaining an active Florida real estate license is essential to legally operate as a sales associate or broker. Keeping your license current not only ensures you’re compliant with Florida law but also keeps your professional knowledge sharp and up to date.
Whether you’re renewing for the first time or have gone through the process before, this complete guide will walk you through the Florida real estate license renewal process—from education requirements to avoiding common pitfalls.
Key Points to Remember
- Renewal is Required Every Two Years: Florida real estate licenses must be renewed biennially by either March 31 or September 30, based on your license issue date.
- Post-Licensing Courses Are Mandatory: First-time renewals require a 45-hour post-licensing course for sales associates or a 60-hour course for brokers.
- Ongoing Continuing Education (CE) Is a Must: After your first renewal, 14 hours of CE are required every two years. These must come from providers approved by the Florida DBPR.
- Avoid Mistakes That Can Delay Renewal: Failing to meet education deadlines, taking unapproved courses, or assuming automatic course reporting can all slow down your license renewal.
Renewing Your Real Estate License in Florida: Step-by-Step
Renewing your Florida real estate license is simple when you follow the proper steps. All renewals are completed through the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) at MyFloridaLicense.com.
Step 1: Log into Your DBPR account
Visit the DBPR portal and sign in. If you haven’t registered before, you’ll need to create an account and link your license.
Step 2: Confirm completion of required education
Before renewing, ensure you’ve completed either the 45-hour post-licensing course (or 60 hours if you’re a broker) or your standard 14 hours of CE for standard renewals.
Step 3: Submit the renewal fee
Fees vary by license type:
- Sales Associate: $64
- Broker: $72
Step 4: Verify license status
Once you’ve submitted payment, your license will be updated to active. You can check your renewal status online or print a copy for your records.
Tip: Begin your Florida real estate license renewal process at least 90 days before your license expiration date to stay ahead.
Florida Real Estate License Renewal Deadlines
Licenses expire every two years—either on March 31 or September 30—depending on the original issue date.
What You Need to Know:
- Missed the Deadline? Your license becomes inactive, and you cannot legally perform real estate duties.
- Within Two Years of Expiration? You can still reactivate your license by completing any overdue education and paying a late fee.
- More Than Two Years Expired? You’ll need to reapply and retake the state licensing exam.
Set reminders early to avoid losing your license status.
Continuing Education Requirements in Florida
To renew your Florida real estate license, your CE must be completed through a DBPR-approved provider.
First-Time Renewal
- Sales Associates: 45-hour post-licensing course
- Brokers: 60-hour post-licensing course
Failure to complete these on time will result in a null and void license, meaning you must start the licensing process from the beginning.
Standard Renewal CE (Every Two Years)
- 3 Hours of Core Law
- 3 Hours of Ethics and Business Practices
- 8 Hours of Specialty Electives
Pro Tip: Keep a copy of your CE certificates in case of any audit or system error.
What Does It Cost to Renew a Florida Real Estate License?
Standard Fees
- Sales Associate: $64
- Broker: $72
Late Renewal Penalties
Late fees range between $25 and $100 depending on how overdue your renewal is.
Course Costs
Continuing education course fees range from $20 to $60 depending on the format and provider.
What If You Miss the Florida Real Estate License Renewal Deadline?
Within Two Years
- Complete required CE
- Pay the late fee
- Renew through the DBPR portal
After Two Years
Your license is no longer valid, and you must reapply and pass the licensing exam again.
Avoid the hassle—set reminders and renew early.
Common Renewal Mistakes to Avoid
While renewing your license is relatively straightforward, here are common issues to consider:
- Forgetting to complete CE before the deadline
- Taking courses from non-approved providers
- Waiting until the last minute
- Assuming your provider reports CE on your behalf
Double-check every requirement to avoid delays or loss of licensure.
Pro Tips for a Smooth Renewal
- Use trusted, DBPR-approved providers—like Gold Coast Schools—for all CE and post-licensing courses.
- Set calendar reminders 90 days before your expiration date.
- Keep documentation of CE completions.
- Monitor your license status through MyFloridaLicense.com.
FAQ: Florida Real Estate License Renewal
What’s the difference between post-licensing and continuing education?
- Post-Licensing: Required for first-time license renewals. A one-time course meant to build foundational skills.
- Continuing Education: Required every two years after your first renewal. Keeps you current on laws, ethics, and best practices.
Can I renew my Florida real estate license early?
Yes! You can renew as soon as you’ve completed your CE requirements—don’t wait until the last minute.
Can I take my CE online?
Absolutely. Many agents choose online courses because they offer flexibility, convenience, and the ability to complete requirements on your schedule.
Are there exemptions?
Active-duty military members and their spouses may qualify for CE or renewal exemptions. However, there are no exemptions for senior licensees.
Stay Ahead with Gold Coast Schools
At Gold Coast Schools, we offer everything you need to renew your Florida real estate license with confidence. From post-licensing to CE courses, our state-approved programs are designed to help you meet requirements and grow your professional expertise.
Enroll today and experience why thousands of Florida real estate professionals choose Gold Coast to stay compliant and competitive in the market.