How to Renew a Real Estate License in Alaska

If you want to stay active as a real estate professional in the state of Alaska, you must renew your real estate license every couple of years. In this article, we'll explain the procedures you must adhere to, the requirements for continuing education, and what to do in the event that your license expires.

Whether you’re a salesperson or a broker, this article has the latest information you need to stay compliant with Alaska’s regulations.

How Long is a Real Estate License Good for in Alaska?

In Alaska, a real estate license expires on January 31st of every even-numbered year (for example, 2024, 2026, and so on). To avoid any late fees or potential penalties, licensees should make sure to complete all renewal requirements before this deadline. 

Staying ahead of the expiration date ensures your license remains in good standing without interruption.

Steps to Renew Your Real Estate License

Renewing your real estate license in Alaska involves a few important steps to ensure your license stays active and in good standing. Here’s a breakdown of the general process:

1. Complete Required Continuing Education
2. Submit Your Renewal Application
3. Pay the Renewal Fees
4. Verify That Your License Has Been Renewed

Let’s take a closer look at each step:

1. Complete Required Continuing Education

Before you can renew your license, you must fulfill the mandatory continuing education requirements. These courses help keep you informed on current laws, industry practices, and professional responsibilities.

For Salespersons:

• 20 hours of CE every two-year cycle
• Includes 8 hours of mandatory core courses and 12 hours of electives

For Brokers:

• Also 20 hours every two years
• Generally follows the same format, with the option to choose broker-specific electives

Be sure to complete your education through a provider approved by the Alaska Real Estate Commission. US Realty Training partners with CE providers that offer all the required coursework to meet Alaska’s licensing standards.

2. Submit Your Renewal Application

Once your continuing education hours are complete, the next step is to submit your renewal application to the Alaska Real Estate Commission (AREC). 

Most licensees choose to complete this process online through the state’s official licensing portal. Be sure to review all your information carefully—this includes your license number, completed CE hours, and contact details—to avoid delays.

3. Pay the Required Fees

When submitting your application, you’ll need to pay the required renewal fees. These fees may vary depending on whether you hold a salesperson or broker license. 

In addition to the base renewal fee, you may also be responsible for contributing to the Recovery Fund and covering any administrative costs. A detailed breakdown of these fees can be found in the FAQ section.

4. Confirm License Renewal Processing

Once approved, your license status will be updated to “active” on the Commission’s website. If there are any issues, such as missing documentation or errors in your application, you’ll be contacted with instructions on how to resolve them.

FAQs about Renewing Your Real Estate License in Alaska

Below are common questions about renewing a real estate license in Alaska. For more detailed or updated information, always consult the Alaska Real Estate Commission website or a state-approved continuing education provider.

Can You Renew a Real Estate License After it Expires?

Yes, you can renew a real estate license in Alaska after it expires, but there are specific requirements and fees based on how long the license has expired:

Expiration Date: Licenses expire on January 31 of even-numbered years.

Reinstatement Requirements:

• Submit a completed Change of License Status application.
• Provide certificates for 20 hours of continuing education (CE) completed during the 2022–2024 licensing period.
• Verify current Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance coverage.
• Pay a $290 reinstatement fee, which includes:
  
  • $120 renewal fee
  • $50 Recovery Fund fee
  • $120 reinstatement fee

Note: It is illegal to practice real estate with a lapsed license.

If your license has expired for more than 24 months, you will need to reapply as a new applicant. This process typically requires retaking the pre-licensing education courses, passing the real estate exam again, and submitting a new application along with paying all associated fees. 

It’s important to note that applications submitted after this 24-month period are not eligible for reinstatement and late fees; instead, they must follow the full new licensing process.

How Much Does a Real Estate License Renewal Cost in Alaska?

The renewal costs may vary slightly each cycle, but here’s a general breakdown:

• Salesperson Renewal Fee: Approximately $120
• Course Fees: $300-$400
• Broker Renewal Fee: Approximately $120
• Recovery Fund Fee: $50 (may apply for certain licensees)

Always confirm fee amounts on the Alaska Real Estate Commission website as these figures can change.

What Can I Expect From an Online Continuing Education Course?

Online continuing education courses offer the convenience of learning at your own pace through a mix of video lectures, reading materials, and interactive quizzes. These courses cover all required core topics, such as Counseling Consumers, Environmental Issues, Fair Housing, and Licensee Disclosures, as well as valuable electives like Document Excellence, Real Estate Fraud, Property Inspection, and Investor Strategies. 

Designed to meet Alaska’s 20-hour CE requirement, US Realty Training’s partnered programs provide comprehensive instruction and practical insights to help you stay current and compliant with state licensing standards.

How Long is a Continuing Education Course?

Each mandatory core or elective course typically lasts between 1 to 4 hours. You are required to complete a total of 20 hours within your two-year renewal cycle. Since these courses are usually self-paced, you can fit them into your schedule at your convenience, as long as you complete all required hours before the renewal deadline.

Final Thoughts on Renewing a Real Estate License in Alaska

Keeping your real estate license active in Alaska ensures you are fully compliant with state regulations. Be sure to mark renewal deadlines on your calendar, complete your continuing education requirements promptly, and submit any necessary fees on time. Staying proactive will help you avoid lapses in your license and prevent costly penalties.

Ready to complete your continuing education requirements? Click the “Enroll” button below to join our partnered continuing education programs through US Realty Training and secure your path to a smooth license renewal!