How to Renew a Real Estate License in Texas

Maintaining an active real estate license is crucial for thriving in the competitive Texas real estate market. Whether you're a sales agent or a broker, staying current ensures your professional standing and compliance with state regulations. 

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll outline the Texas real estate license renewal process, including the required continuing education (CE) hours and step-by-step instructions to keep your license active and your career on track.

How Long is a Real Estate License Good for in Texas?

In Texas, real estate licenses are valid for two years. Both sales agents and brokers must renew their licenses before expiration to avoid additional fees or penalties. 

Failing to renew on time may lead to late fees, and after a certain period, reapplication may be required.

Steps to Renew Your Real Estate License

Renewing your real estate license involves meeting specific requirements set by the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC). Follow these steps to complete your renewal:

1. Complete Continuing Education (CE) Requirements
2. Submit Renewal Application
3. Pay Applicable Fees

1. Complete Continuing Education (CE) Requirements

The renewal requirements are different for sales agents and brokers. Here’s what you should know.

Sales Agents:
Sales agents must complete 18 hours of continuing education (CE) every two years, including:

Mandatory core hours:

• 8 hours (4 hours each of TREC Legal Update I and II).
• 3 hours of contract-related coursework.

Elective hours:

• 7 hours from elective courses relevant to real estate.

Brokers:
Brokers also need 18 hours of CE every two years, which includes:

Mandatory core hours:

• 8 hours (4 hours each of TREC Legal Update I and II).
• 3 hours of contract-related coursework.

Additional requirements:

• Brokers who sponsor sales agents, serve as designated brokers for a business entity, or supervise other licensees must complete the 6-hour Broker Responsibility Course as part of their 18-hour CE.

Important Note: Submit CE hours to TREC at least 10 days before license expiration to ensure your application is processed without delays. US Realty Training’s partnered continuing education programs can help you fulfill these requirements conveniently.

2. Submit Renewal Application

TREC sends a renewal notice approximately 90 days before your license expiration. You can renew your license online through TREC's Online Services or by mailing the renewal application form. 

Ensure all CE requirements have been fulfilled and reported to TREC to avoid processing delays.

3. Pay Applicable Fees

The fees for renewing a real estate license depend on your license type and whether you renew on time or late. 

Renewal Fees:

• Sales Agents: $110
• Brokers: $217

Late Renewal Fees:

Late fees are issued when you renew your license after the expiration date. The fee amount varies depending on how long the license is expired and your license type.

Sales agents:

• Up to 90 days late: $143
• Over 90 days late: $176

Brokers:

• Up to 90 days late: $253
• Over 90 days late: $289

CE Deferral Fee:

• If your Continuing Education (CE) is incomplete at renewal time, you can pay a $200 CE Deferral Fee to get an additional 60 days to complete it.

Note: Verify Fingerprinting and Background Check

Only if you have not previously submitted fingerprints to TREC for an application or renewal, you are required to complete a fingerprinting process for a criminal background check. This requirement applies to both sales agents and brokers.

FAQs about Renewing Your Real Estate License in Texas

Can You Renew a Real Estate License After it Expires?

Yes, you can renew your license up to six months after its expiration by paying the applicable late renewal fees. After six months, reinstatement is required. 

If your license has expired for more than two years, you must reapply and meet all initial licensing requirements.

How Much Does a Real Estate License Renewal Cost in Texas?

The costs for renewing a real estate license in Texas are outlined in the fee structure provided above. Ensure you renew on time and complete CE requirements to avoid late fees or additional charges.

What Can I Expect From an Online Continuing Education Course?

Online continuing education (CE) courses offer flexibility, letting you study at your own pace. These courses cover mandatory topics like Legal Updates, contract-related coursework, and electives. They are interactive, user-friendly, and designed to meet Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) standards.

How Long is a Continuing Education Course?

Most continuing education (CE) courses for Texas real estate professionals range from 3 to 6 hours, depending on the topic and format. You can complete all 18 hours of CE in just a few days, making it easy to fit into your schedule.

Final Thoughts on Renewing a Real Estate License in Texas

Renewing your Texas real estate license is easy when you prepare in advance and complete the required education and application steps. By staying compliant with Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) guidelines, you can avoid interruptions in your career.

Stay ahead of the game and maintain your real estate license today! Enroll in US Realty Training’s partnered continuing education program to ensure your career stays on track. Click “Enroll” below to get started.