Written by Young Brockhouse
Reading Time: 3 min
Renewing your real estate broker license might seem daunting, but with the right information, the process is straightforward. The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) oversees the licensing of real estate brokers in the state, and they’ve outlined specific requirements based on when your license was first issued. Licensed real estate brokers must submit their license renewal application and a $200 State of Illinois licensing fee to IDFPR on or by April 30, 2024.
Let’s break down the renewal process to ensure you stay compliant and maintain your status as a licensed real estate professional. Get started by checking your original date of licensure and current license status using the “License Lookup” tool on IDFPR’s website.
If First Issued a Broker License Prior to Nov. 1, 2021
For those who obtained their broker license before Nov. 1, 2021, 12 hours of Continuing Education (CE) is required for renewal. This includes a 4-hour Core course and 8 hours of elective courses, with the option of one hour dedicated to Sexual Harassment Prevention Training. At least one hour of Sexual Harassment Prevention Training is mandatory. Illinois REALTORS® offers 12-hour CE packages and individual CE courses.
If you think you have taken continuing education courses during the current 2-year renewal cycle (May 1, 2022 -April 30, 2024), you may view your list of completed CE courses through the “CE Lookup” tool on IDFPR’s website. Illinois REALTORS® also maintains a record of courses you have taken through the Illinois REALTORS® school.
If First Issued a Broker License Between Nov. 1, 2021, and Oct. 31, 2023
If your license was issued during this period, you are required to complete 45 hours of Post License Education for renewal. Illinois REALTORS® offers a variety of 45-hour post-license packages.
If First Issued a Broker License On or After Nov. 1, 2023
Licenses issued on or after Nov. 1, 2023, will have an expiration date of April 30, 2026. Renewal for this category requires 45 hours of Post License Education to be completed by April 30, 2026.
Certification and Exemptions
Certification of Compliance: On the renewal application, each applicant must certify full compliance with the CE requirements. Attorneys admitted to practice law in Illinois are exempt from CE but must still certify compliance.
Additional Evidence: The IDFPR may request additional evidence demonstrating compliance with CE requirements. Each renewal applicant is responsible for retaining and producing evidence upon request.
Submitting your license renewal application
After completing your education requirements, submit your license renewal application online to IDFPR and pay the $200 State of Illinois licensing fee on or before April 30, 2024.
Renewing your real estate broker license is a crucial step in staying current and compliant with state regulations. By following these guidelines and utilizing the provided resources, you can navigate the renewal process with confidence. Stay informed, renew your license by the April 20, 2024, deadline and you will stay on track for success in your real estate career!
Resources for Renewal
All CE and Post-License Education must be completed through an IDFPR-approved Real Estate Education Provider such as Illinois REALTORS®.
As a reminder, the Post-License curriculum includes the required 1-hour of Sexual Harassment Prevention Training.
About the writer: Young Brockhouse is Illinois REALTORS® Vice President for Professional Development.
