Florida real estate continuing education (CE) keeps your license active and your skills current. Whether you are a sales associate or broker, the Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC) requires ongoing education to renew your license. This 2026 guide breaks down Florida CE requirements, renewal cycles, approved topics, and what happens if you miss a deadline.
If you are still working toward your first license, start with the Florida pre-licensing course guide or review the full Florida real estate license requirements to understand the complete path.
Continuing education vs post-licensing: what is the difference?
Florida treats the first renewal differently from later renewals. Your first renewal is called post-licensing education. After that, you complete regular continuing education (CE) every renewal cycle. Knowing which category you fall into helps you choose the right course and avoid delays with the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).
- First renewal (post-licensing): sales associates complete 45 hours; brokers complete 60 hours.
- All later renewals: most active licenses complete 14 hours of CE each cycle.
Florida real estate CE requirements (renewal cycle)
For most active Florida licensees, the CE requirement is 14 total hours during each two-year renewal cycle. The requirement typically includes a 3-hour Core Law course plus 11 hours of specialty education. The specialty hours can focus on subjects like ethics, contracts, marketing, property management, finance, and legal updates. Keep certificates from your provider in case the DBPR requests verification.
If you are a broker of record or manage a team, select courses that align with your leadership responsibilities, such as brokerage operations, supervision, escrow compliance, and risk management. Brokers who want to upgrade their credentials may also explore the broker pathway outlined in the Florida broker license requirements guide.
Approved CE topics and course formats
Florida CE providers must be FREC-approved. Most offer online self-paced courses, live webinars, or classroom options. Online CE is popular because you can complete hours on your schedule and track progress automatically. Regardless of format, the course should clearly list approved credit hours and the Core Law component.
Common CE topic areas include:
- Florida real estate law updates and rule changes.
- Contracts, disclosures, and risk management.
- Ethics, fair housing, and fair lending.
- Financing, valuation, and market analysis.
- Property management and escrow compliance.
Renewal timeline and key deadlines
Florida real estate licenses renew every two years, and CE must be completed before your renewal date. The DBPR publishes your exact renewal deadline in your online account. Set a reminder at least 60 to 90 days in advance so you have time to finish the coursework, pass any final exams, and allow the provider to report completion to the state.
Many students prefer to finish CE early, especially during busy seasons. If you are planning to renew your sales associate license and also build new skills, consider pairing CE with ongoing education such as exam prep or advanced electives.
What happens if you miss the CE deadline?
Missing the deadline can place your license into involuntary inactive status. That means you cannot practice real estate until you complete the required education and pay any late fees. Extended lapses can require additional coursework or even re-licensing. To avoid disruptions, complete CE early and confirm your renewal is processed in your DBPR account.
Choosing the right Florida CE provider
When selecting a CE provider, look for FREC approval, clear reporting to the DBPR, and course formats that match your schedule. Online options work well for busy agents, while live or classroom formats can be helpful if you prefer structured sessions. Reviews and support availability matter too, especially if you need help with final exams or reporting questions.
If you are considering continuing your education beyond CE, review the broader steps in our How to get your real estate license in 2026 guide or explore upcoming offerings through Casa Academy enrollment.
FAQs
Q: How many CE hours do Florida real estate agents need?
A: Most active Florida sales associates and brokers complete 14 hours of CE every two-year renewal cycle after the first renewal. The first renewal uses post-licensing hours instead of CE.
Q: What counts toward the 14-hour CE requirement?
A: The requirement usually includes a 3-hour Core Law course plus 11 hours of specialty education from a FREC-approved provider. Always verify that the course offers Florida credit hours.
Q: Can I complete Florida real estate CE online?
A: Yes. Many Florida-approved providers offer online CE with self-paced modules and automated reporting to the DBPR. Make sure the course lists the Core Law hours and total CE credit.
Q: What happens if I renew late?
A: Late renewals can place your license in involuntary inactive status and require extra education and fees before you can practice again. Completing CE early helps avoid interruptions.
Q: Do brokers have different CE requirements in Florida?
A: Brokers follow the same 14-hour CE requirement after the first renewal, but their post-licensing obligation for the first renewal is higher at 60 hours.