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A broker's guide to your first time real estate broker license renewal in California

Renewrelicense Exam Tips

by Kartik Subramaniam

Reading Time: 4 Minutes

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Your first broker renewal is different—here's what you need to know

Your upcoming first-time real estate broker license renewal in California might be unlike any renewal you will complete in the future. As a newly licensed broker, you must satisfy a unique 45‑hour continuing‑education (CE) package that the California Department of Real Estate (DRE) reserves exclusively for this very first renewal. This article walks you step‑by‑step through the process so you can meet every rule, submit on time, and keep your license active with confidence.

The mandatory 45‑hour CE for California brokers: breakdown for first‑time brokers

The DRE spells out precisely what must be included in your initial 45‑hour package:

Real estate brokers or officers renewing an original license for the first time must complete 45 clock hours of DRE‑approved continuing education consisting of: five separate three‑hour courses in ethics, agency, trust fund handling, risk management, management and supervision and a three‑hour course in fair housing, which must include an interactive participatory component during which the licensee will role‑play as both a consumer and a real estate professional; a two‑hour course in implicit bias training; a minimum of 18 hours of consumer protection courses; and the remaining clock hours to complete the 45 hours may relate to either consumer service or consumer protection courses.

The 'core five' management and ethics courses (15 hours)

You must complete five distinct three‑hour courses:

The fair housing interactive course (3 hours)

The DRE requires a three-hour Fair Housing course with an "interactive participatory component" that involves role-playing as both a consumer and a real estate professional. Plan extra time for the simulation exercises and confirm that your provider clearly labels the course as interactive.

The implicit bias training (2 hours)

You will also take a two‑hour class on recognizing and addressing unconscious bias in real estate practice. Expect scenarios that focus on language, marketing, and client interactions, which can inadvertently perpetuate bias.

The consumer protection requirement (18 hours)

At least 18 of your 45 hours must be in courses the DRE tags as Consumer Protection. Topics typically include disclosures, advertising compliance, and emerging risk areas.

Your remaining elective hours (7 hours)

Round out the package with seven hours from either the Consumer Protection or Consumer Service categories. Many brokers utilize these electives to deepen their expertise in specialty niches, such as property management or commercial leasing.

Quick‑reference checklist: CA broker first renewal requirements

Course category Required hours Notes
Core courses (5) 15 hours Ethics, Agency, Trust Fund, Risk Mgmt, Mgmt/Supervision
Fair Housing 3 hours Must include an interactive/role‑playing component
Implicit Bias Training 2 hours Covers recognizing unconscious bias
Consumer Protection 18 hours (min)Courses focused on protecting the public
Electives 7 hours Can be Consumer Protection or Consumer Service
TOTAL 45 hours Must be from a DRE‑approved provider like ADHI Schools

Finding DRE broker continuing education courses

Because audits are standard, you must verify that every course provider, like ADHI Schools, is approved by the DRE—no exceptions. The quickest way is to search the "Continuing Education Courses" database on the official DRE website, cross‑checking each course number and title. If a course or school is not listed, choose an alternative option.

You can rest assured that any courses offered by ADHI Schools are approved for the requisite CE credit. Our CE sponsor number is DRE 6404.

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Completing the renewal: from CE to the eLicensing online portal

First, gather a completion certificate for each course. Next, log in to the eLicensing online portal, select "Renew Broker License," and pay the renewal fee. You can submit up to 90 days before—yet no later than—the expiration date on your license. Submitting online usually lets you print the renewed license quickly.

Frequently asked questions

What is the "interactive component" for the Fair Housing course?

It is a role‑play exercise where you act first as a consumer and then as a licensee facing potential discrimination scenarios. The activity must allow you to practice responses in real-time.

What happens if I renew after my license expiration date?

You have a two‑year late‑renewal window, but you will pay an increased fee and cannot perform acts that require a broker license until the DRE processes the late renewal.

Do I have to take all 45 hours from the same school?

No. You may mix courses from multiple DRE‑approved providers as long as the total hours and subject breakdown meet the rules. The easiest thing to do is simply get the broker 45 hour package from ADHI Schools.

How is this first renewal different from my next one?

Starting with your second renewal, you may substitute a single nine‑hour survey course covering the seven mandatory subjects for the individual "core" classes, streamlining future CE.

Secure your license and move forward with confidence.

By completing the exact courses outlined above, verifying each one through the DRE database, and filing your forms and fee in the eLicensing portal before your deadline, you will satisfy every requirement of this essential first renewal. Explore our curated Continuing Education packages to simplify the process and stay on track.

This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult the California Department of Real Estate or a qualified attorney for guidance specific to your situation.

Kartik Subramaniam

Founder, Adhi Schools

Kartik Subramaniam is the Founder and CEO of ADHI Real Estate Schools, a leader in real estate education throughout California. Holding a degree from Cal Poly University, Subramaniam brings a wealth of experience in real estate sales, property management, and investment transactions. He is the author of nine books on real estate and countless real estate articles. With a track record of successfully completing hundreds of real estate transactions, he has equipped countless professionals to thrive in the industry.

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