How to Renew a Real Estate License in Colorado

In Colorado, all real estate professionals are licensed as brokers—there is no separate license for salespersons. Your real estate broker license is valid for three years, and to keep it active and avoid penalties, you must complete the renewal process before it expires. The Colorado Division of Real Estate oversees the renewal process and sets requirements for continuing education (CE) to ensure that brokers stay up to date with industry standards and regulations.

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

In Colorado, your brokers license is valid for three years. To maintain an active license and avoid penalties, it’s important to complete the renewal process before it expires. The Colorado Division of Real Estate manages the license renewal process and sets requirements for continuing education (CE) to ensure you stay current in the industry.

Steps to Renew Your Real Estate License

Renewing your real estate license is a simple process designed to ensure you meet state requirements and stay current with industry knowledge. 

Here's how to renew your license successfully:

1. - Confirm Eligibility: Verify that you meet the criteria to renew your license.
2. - Complete Continuing Education: Fulfill all required continuing education courses.
3. - Submit Your Renewal Application: Complete the application online through the state’s licensing portal.
4. - Pay the Renewal Fee: Submit the applicable fee to finalize your renewal.

By following these steps, you’ll keep your license active and your skills sharp.

1. Confirm Your Eligibility for Renewal

Before starting the process, ensure you’re eligible for renewal. If your license is expired, you may need to meet additional requirements or apply for reinstatement.

Requirements for Newly Licensed Brokers:

• A newly issued broker's license is valid until midnight on December 31 of the year it is issued.
• During this initial period, continuing education is not required.
• Once the initial license period ends, brokers transition to a three-year renewal cycle. During each cycle, 24 hours of continuing education must be completed to maintain licensure.

This structure ensures new brokers have time to acclimate before fulfilling ongoing education requirements.

2. Complete Continuing Education Requirements

In Colorado, all active real estate brokers are required to complete 24 credit hours of continuing education every three years to maintain their active license status.

Continuing Education Breakdown

• Annual Commission Update Courses (12 hours): Complete three different versions of the four-hour Annual Commission Update course—one each year.
• Elective Courses (12 hours): Choose from elective courses or other state-approved topics to fulfill the remaining hours.

What If You Miss an Annual Commission Update Course?

If you fail to complete one or more Annual Commission Update courses during your license period, you must satisfy one of the following alternatives:

1. Take and Pass the State Portion of the Licensing Exam
   This option allows brokers to demonstrate their current knowledge without taking additional courses.
2. Complete the 24 Credit Hour Broker Reactivation Course
   This course is designed to reactivate your license and cover essential content.
3. Complete 72 Hours of Education in Specific Courses
   This involves completing:some text
   • 48 hours of the Colorado Contracts and Regulations course
   • 24 hours of the Broker Administration course

Reinstating a License After Extended Inactivity

If your real estate license has been inactive for more than three years, you’ll need to contact the Colorado Division of Real Estate to determine the steps for reinstatement.

We partnered with Kaplan to provide state-approved CE courses to agents who need to renew. Even better, if you sign up through our website, you get a discount.

3. Submit Your Renewal Application Online

Log in: Access your account on the Colorado Division of Real Estate’s official website.

Complete the Application: Fill out the renewal form carefully, ensuring that all your details are accurate and up to date.

Late Renewals: Keep in mind that submitting your renewal after the due date may result in additional fees or require you to go through the reinstatement process.

4. Pay the Renewal Fee

During the online application process, you will be prompted to pay the renewal fee. As of the latest information, the renewal fee for a Colorado real estate broker license is $387. Fees are non-refundable, so double-check your application details before submitting payment.

FAQs About Renewing Your Real Estate License in Colorado

Renewing your license can raise questions. Here are answers to some common concerns:

Can You Renew a License After it Expires?

Yes, you can renew an expired real estate license in Colorado, but the process varies based on how long it has been expired:

- Less than 31 days: Renew without penalty.

- 31 days to 3 years: Additional education requirements or reinstatement fees may apply.

- More than 3 years: You’ll need to apply for a new license.

Check with the Colorado Division of Real Estate for specific steps to get back on track.

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

Renewal costs vary slightly but generally include the following:

• Broker License Renewal: $387
• Late fees may apply if you renew after your license expires.

What Can I Expect From an Online Continuing Education Course?

Online continuing education courses are tailored to fit your busy schedule. These programs offer engaging content, interactive lessons, and practical case studies, all aligned with Colorado’s real estate practices.

Through US Realty Training’s partnership with Kaplan, you’ll gain access to flexible and comprehensive programs that meet Colorado’s state requirements. Renew your license effectively and conveniently with a course designed to work for you.

How Long is a Continuing Education Course?

The length of a continuing education course depends on the subject. Each course is typically between 3-4 hours, with some mandatory courses, like the CREC Annual Update, taking a total of 12 hours over three years. Elective courses offer additional flexibility in content and duration.

Final Thoughts on Renewing a Real Estate License in Colorado

Renewing your Colorado real estate license is a simple process that ensures you stay compliant and continue to thrive in the competitive industry. Be sure to complete your required continuing education, submit your renewal application on time, and pay the applicable renewal fee.

Ready to renew your license in Colorado? Learn more about our continuing education courses.