Post-licensing and continuing education are both required in Florida, but they happen at different stages of your real estate career. This guide breaks down who needs each, when to complete them, and how to plan your timeline.
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Post-licensing vs continuing education: the quick difference
Here is the fastest way to compare the two requirements:
- Post-licensing applies after you get your first license.
- Continuing education (CE) applies to every renewal cycle after that.
- Post-licensing is a one-time requirement; CE repeats every cycle.
What is Florida post-licensing?
Post-licensing is the first education requirement after you are licensed. It is designed to bridge the gap between pre-licensing coursework and real-world practice.
Who must take post-licensing?
- Newly licensed sales associates in Florida.
- Newly licensed brokers with a first-time broker license.
- Anyone renewing for the first time who has not completed it yet.
What is Florida continuing education (CE)?
Continuing education is the recurring requirement that keeps your license active. It covers legal updates, ethics, and core real estate topics during every renewal cycle.
When does CE start?
- CE starts after the post-licensing requirement is completed.
- It repeats every renewal cycle going forward.
- Missing CE can delay renewal or trigger late fees.
Timing and deadlines
Florida expects post-licensing to be completed by your first renewal. CE is then required for every renewal after that.
- Post-licensing deadline: before your first license renewal date.
- CE deadline: before each renewal window closes.
- Plan early so you can avoid late fees or inactive status.
How to plan your education schedule
Use this simple planning checklist to stay ahead:
- Confirm your initial license issue date and first renewal date.
- Schedule post-licensing coursework within your first year.
- Set reminders 90 days before each future renewal cycle.
Need reminders or a study plan? Talk to Casa Academy for flexible online courses.
FAQs
Q: Can I take continuing education instead of post-licensing?
A: No. Florida requires post-licensing for your first renewal. CE starts only after post-licensing is complete.
Q: What happens if I miss my post-licensing deadline?
A: You may face license status issues at renewal. Complete the required hours before the renewal window closes.
Q: How often do I need CE after post-licensing?
A: CE is required every renewal cycle after your first renewal.
Q: Do brokers and sales associates follow the same timing?
A: Both follow the same sequence: post-licensing before the first renewal, then CE each cycle.