Ohio Real Estate Post-Licensing: Explained

Completing your post-licensing education is a crucial next step, regardless of whether you recently obtained your real estate salesperson license or started an exciting career as an Ohio broker. Whether you’ve just earned your real estate salesperson license or stepped into a new role as a broker in Ohio, there’s one key step you’ll need to take next: completing your post-licensing education. This is a required part of staying compliant and keeping your license active.

In this brief overview, you'll learn what Ohio post-licensing is, how it differs from continuing education (CE), how many hours you'll need, and what to expect from the coursework—so you can start with confidence.

What is Ohio Post-Licensing in Real Estate?

Post-licensing is a one-time education requirement for newly licensed real estate professionals in Ohio. It’s designed to build on what you learned during pre-licensing by diving into the real-world knowledge and legal responsibilities you’ll need as an active agent or broker.

When Does It Happen?
You have 12 months from the date your license is issued to complete your post-licensing education—whether you're a salesperson or a broker. Missing this deadline could jeopardize your license, so it’s important to plan ahead.

What Does it Involve?
To satisfy the requirement, you’ll need to complete a course from a state-approved provider that covers topics like Ohio real estate law, ethics, fair housing, agency responsibilities, and practical business skills.

• Salespersons must complete 20 hours of post-licensing coursework.
• Brokers are required to complete 10 hours focused on broker-level duties and office management.

Once you’ve finished your hours, you’ll be set for your first renewal cycle.

Do You Only Need to Complete Post-Licensing Courses Once?
Yes. Post-licensing is a one-and-done milestone for newly licensed professionals. However, you’ll still be responsible for continuing education (CE) requirements every three years to maintain an active license after this. 

Real Estate Post-Licensing Requirements in Ohio

If you’ve just earned your real estate license in Ohio—whether as a salesperson or broker—there’s one more step before you settle into your career: post-licensing education. This mandatory course is designed to help you build on what you learned pre-licensing and prepare you for success in the field.

Quick Snapshot:

• Salespersons: 20 hours of post-licensing education
• Brokers: 10 hours of post-licensing education
• Deadline: Must be completed within 12 months of license issuance

Not sure where to start? You can easily enroll in one of our state-approved post-licensing courses—designed to fit your busy schedule while keeping you compliant.

Ohio Real Estate Post-Licensing vs. Continuing Education

It’s easy to confuse post-licensing with continuing education (CE), but they do serve different purposes:

Post-Licensing:

For newly licensed salespersons, 20 hours of post-licensing education is required, and for newly licensed brokers, 10 hours must be completed. These courses must be finished within the first 12 months of receiving your license. Post-licensing education builds on the foundation from your pre-licensing courses, providing practical, hands-on learning and a deeper understanding of Ohio’s real estate laws and practices.

Continuing Education (CE):

All active licensees in Ohio, including both salespersons and brokers, must complete 30 hours of continuing education every 3 years during the renewal cycle. CE ensures you stay current with changes in laws, market trends, and industry best practices to maintain your competency as a professional throughout your career.

Understanding the difference between post-licensing and CE ensures you stay compliant at every stage of your real estate career, from initial licensure to ongoing professional development.

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

The purpose of Ohio's post-licensing courses is to enhance your comprehension of real estate laws and develop your practical abilities.These courses focus on enhancing your competence and confidence in day-to-day transactions.

For Brokers (10-Hour Course):

• Developing a business plan (mission, vision, goals, strategies)
• Brokerage operations and policies
• Ohio Civil Rights Act and fair housing violations
• Consumer Guide to Agency Relationships
• Advertising regulations and team advertising in Ohio
• Credit scores, financing, earnest money disputes, and inspections

For Salespersons (20-Hour Course):

• Broker responsibilities and advertising regulations
• Real estate cycles and civil rights/fair housing
• Agency formation and disclosure
• Duties as a buyer’s and seller’s agent
• Earnest money handling and state/federal programs
• Foreclosures, short sales, and property management

These courses help you gain the insight you need to succeed in your real estate journey while ensuring compliance with Ohio’s laws.

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

If you don’t complete your post-licensing course within 12 months, your license may be placed on inactive status—or worse, suspended or revoked. Here’s what to do if you’re cutting it close:

• Contact the Ohio Division of Real Estate for guidance.
• Enroll right away to avoid delays.
• Be prepared to pay any late fees or penalties to restore your active license.

Taking prompt action guarantees that you remain compliant and maintain your legal status in Ohio.

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

Yes, and the requirement is different from the salesperson requirement. Once you get your new broker license, Ohio mandates a 10-hour post-licensing course for brokers during the first 12 months of licensure. Even if you have previously completed salesperson post-licensing, your new profession has distinct responsibilities that are taught in the broker-specific program.

How Much Does Ohio Real Estate Post-Licensing Cost?

Costs vary by provider, but here’s a general breakdown:

• Salesperson (20-Hour) Course Tuition: $200 – $400
• Broker (10-Hour) Course Tuition: $100 - $200
• Study Materials (if not included): $50 – $100
• Administrative/Registration Fees: $20 – $50

Estimated Total (Salesperson): $270 – $550
Estimated Total (Broker): $220 – $450

Be sure to compare prices, look for bundled discounts, and confirm the provider is state-approved before you enroll.

Final Thoughts on Ohio Post-Licensing Courses

Completing your Ohio post-licensing course is more than just a step in the process—it’s your chance to gain confidence, stay compliant, and start your real estate journey with a solid foundation! Whether you’re just getting started or stepping into leadership as a broker, taking this step on time sets you up for long-term success.

Ready to get started? Click the button below to enroll in our trusted, state-approved Ohio post-licensing program and stay on track from day one.