Louisiana Real Estate Post-Licensing: Explained

Just got your real estate license in Louisiana? Or maybe you're looking ahead at what’s next? Either way, you're in the right place. One of the first steps after getting licensed in Louisiana is completing your post-licensing education.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through exactly what post-licensing is, why it’s required, and how to knock it out on time. You’ll also learn how it differs from continuing education and what can happen if you accidentally miss the deadline. 

Let’s set you up for a confident, compliant start to your career.

What is Louisiana Post-Licensing in Real Estate?

This is a required next step for newly licensed real estate professionals in Louisiana. Once you’ve earned your initial salesperson license, post-licensing helps bridge the gap between classroom knowledge and real-world practice. It’s designed to reinforce key concepts and prepare you for day-to-day success in the field.

When does it happen? 

You’re expected to complete your education within the first few months of becoming licensed. The Louisiana Real Estate Commission (LREC) sets a firm deadline—within 180 days of ygetting your license.

What do you do to satisfy it? 

You’ll enroll in a state-approved 45-hour course that covers more advanced and practical real estate topics. These topics go deeper into areas like Louisiana-specific laws, contracts, client relationships, and ethical practices—all with the goal of making you a more confident and capable agent.

Do you only need to complete post-licensing once? 

Yes. Post-licensing is a one-time requirement for new licensees. Once it’s completed, you’ll transition into Louisiana’s ongoing continuing education requirements, which are part of each license renewal cycle.

Real Estate Post-Licensing Requirements in Louisiana

These hours must be completed within 180 days of the date your license is issued. Building on your pre-licensing background, this will go further into the practical world of real estate, including managing contracts, navigating transactions, and applying regulations and ethical standards.

Join Our Partnered Real Estate Post-Licensing Courses

Whether you're launching your career in Louisiana or expanding into other markets, our partnered post-licensing courses make it easy to stay compliant and confident. Enroll online and take the next step toward becoming a knowledgeable, fully prepared real estate professional.

Louisiana Real Estate Post-Licensing vs. Continuing Education

While both post-licensing and continuing education (CE) courses are mandatory at different stages of your career, they serve different purposes:

Post-Licensing: 

This is a one-time requirement tailored specifically for newly licensed agents. Its purpose is to bridge the gap between what you learned in the classroom and what you'll experience in the field. Expect to take a deeper dive into hands-on topics to help you better manage your business!

Continuing Education: 

Once your post-licensing is complete, you’ll move into ongoing Continuing Education, which is required annually to keep your license active. In Louisiana, that typically means 12 hours per renewal cycle, including mandatory updates on legislation, industry trends, and professional best practices—helping you stay sharp and in step with the market.

In short, post-licensing gives you the tools to launch your career with confidence, while continuing education ensures you grow with the industry. Both are essential to staying informed, compliant, and competitive in Louisiana’s fast-moving real estate landscape.

What’s Covered in Louisiana Real Estate Post-Licensing Courses?

It’s important to note that Louisiana’s post-licensing curriculum isn’t just a continuation of what you learned in pre-licensing; it’s an opportunity to sharpen your expertise. You’ll go beyond the basics and tackle more complex scenarios and gain practical insights that will help you confidently navigate everyday challenges in real estate.

Here’s a quick look at some of the key topics you’ll explore during your post-licensing coursework—tools that will help you handle real-world situations with confidence:

• Advanced contract knowledge, including sales contracts, amendments, and multiple offers.
• Real estate financing, appraisals, and buyer qualification.
• Property management, commercial real estate, and advertising basics.
• Legal issues like fair housing, antitrust, and environmental concerns.
• Louisiana-specific topics like condemnation, expropriation, and military rights.

This well-rounded curriculum gives you the practical tools to hit the ground running in the real estate market.

What If You Don’t Complete Post-Licensing Courses?

If you don’t finish your required course within the deadline, you risk facing penalties—including having your license suspended. The Louisiana Real Estate Commission takes these timelines seriously to make sure all new agents are prepared to serve clients responsibly and professionally.

Missed the deadline? Here’s what to do:

• Reach out to the Commission: They can walk you through your options, including whether you qualify for reinstatement or need to reapply.
• Complete the coursework ASAP: Enrolling in a state-approved course right away can help you limit delays and move forward with getting your license reactivated.

Staying on top of this requirement helps protect your license and your future in real estate.

Do You Need Post-Licensing Courses to Become a Broker?

Becoming a broker is a big step up—and it comes with higher expectations. While completing your post-licensing education as a salesperson is an important milestone, it doesn’t count toward your broker requirements.

To qualify for a broker’s license, you’ll need to meet separate criteria set by the Louisiana Real Estate Commission, including more advanced coursework and several years of hands-on experience. It’s a bigger commitment—but one that opens the door to new opportunities and greater responsibility in your real estate career

How Much Does Real Estate Post-Licensing Cost?

Post-licensing courses vary in cost depending on the school or online provider you choose. Here’s a quick breakdown of typical expenses you might encounter in Louisiana:

1. Course Enrollment Fee: $100 – $200
2. Study Materials & Textbooks (if needed): $50 – $100

These courses typically include a final exam at no additional cost. However, if you're retaking the exam or require additional proctoring services, fees may apply.

Total Estimated Cost: $200 - $300

This estimate covers the essential components of post-licensing education. Keep in mind that prices can fluctuate based on promotions, bundled packages, or additional services offered by the education providers.

For the most accurate and up-to-date pricing, it's advisable to visit the official websites of the education providers or contact them directly.

Final Thoughts on Louisiana Post-Licensing Courses

Post-licensing is a key part of launching your real estate career with confidence. It expands on the pre-licensing knowledge you gained and equips you with the practical skills you need to thrive. You will fulfill Louisiana's criteria and maintain your path for long-term business growth if you finish your courses on time.

Ready to move forward?
Click “Enroll” below to join one of our trusted post-licensing programs and take the next step in your Louisiana real estate journey.