California Real Estate Education Requirements
Continuing Education

Salespersons Renewing for the First Time

Real estate salespersons renewing an original license for the first time must complete four separate three-hour DRE-approved continuing education courses in Ethics, Agency, Trust Fund Handling, and Fair Housing.

Brokers Renewing for the First Time

Real estate brokers renewing an original license for the first time must complete 45 clock hours of DRE-approved continuing education consisting of:

• Four separate three-hour courses in the following subjects: Ethics, Agency, Trust Fund Handling, and Fair Housing;
• A minimum of 18 clock hours of consumer protection courses; and
• The remaining 15 clock hours related to either consumer service or consumer protection.

Salesperson and Brokers Renewing After the First Time

For subsequent renewals, all real estate brokers and salespersons must complete 45 clock hours of DRE-approved continuing education consisting of:

• One six-hour survey course that covers the four mandatory subjects (Ethics, Agency, Trust Fund Handling, and Fair Housing);;
• At least 18 clock hours of consumer protection courses; and
• The remaining 21 clock hours in either consumer service or consumer protection courses.

Licenses are issued for a four-year period and should be renewed prior to the expiration date listed on the license. As a reminder, the DRE mails a renewal form to the licensee's mailing address of record approximately 90 days prior to the license expiration date. The form is sent as a courtesy only and non-receipt of the form does not relieve the licensee from the responsibility of renewing the license.

You should consult the official state California Real Estate Commission website for full details of California real estate continuing education requirements..