How to Renew a Real Estate License in Maine
If you’re building a career in real estate in Maine, keeping your license active is key to staying in business—and staying compliant. Whether you're a broker or a designated broker, renewing your real estate license on time is essential. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the Maine real estate license renewal process, including continuing education (CE) requirements, deadlines, fees, and common questions.
How Long is a Real Estate License Good for in Maine?
In Maine, real estate licenses for Associate Brokers, Brokers, and Designated Brokers are valid for two years. However, it’s important to note that the entry-level Sales Agent license is also valid for two years—but it’s not renewable. After that initial term, Sales Agents must advance to an Associate Broker license in order to continue working legally.
No matter your license type, it’s crucial to renew before your expiration date to avoid penalties or interruptions to your business.
Steps to Renew Your Real Estate License
Renewing your license is a straightforward process, but missing a step can cost you time and money. Here’s what you need to do:
- Complete Your Required Continuing Education (CE)
- Submit Your Renewal Application
- Pay the Renewal Fees
We’ll walk you through each of these steps to make sure you’re fully prepared for a smooth renewal process.
1. Complete Your Required Continuing Education (CE)
To renew your Maine real estate license, continuing education isn’t just a recommendation—it’s a must. Whether you’re an Associate Broker, Broker, or Designated Broker, you’ll need to complete 21 hours of CE.
Of those 21 hours, 3 must be focused on the current Core Course approved by the Maine Real Estate Commission. The rest—18 hours—can be elective courses, as long as they're on the approved list.
Quick Note for Sales Agents:
If you're currently licensed as a Sales Agent, your license is valid for two years but cannot be renewed. Instead, you’ll need to upgrade to an Associate Broker license, which involves completing a separate, commission-approved Associate Broker course.
Looking for a flexible way to complete your CE? US Realty Training offers Maine-approved online CE programs you can take on your own time—perfect for busy agents looking to stay compliant without stepping away from the business.
2. Submit Your Renewal Application
Once your CE is complete, it’s time to renew. Head to the Maine Real Estate Commission website to fill out your renewal application online. You’ll confirm your license type (Associate Broker, Broker, or Designated Broker), update your contact info, and verify that you’ve met all education requirements.
Double-check your application before submitting—mistakes can lead to delays, and nobody wants a lapse in licensure.
3. Pay the Renewal Fees
The last step is simple: pay your renewal fee online. As of now, the standard fee for renewing an Associate Broker or Broker license in Maine is around $100.
But don’t wait too long—late renewals come with a penalty, usually an additional $50. Always refer to the Maine Real Estate Commission’s site for the most accurate and current fee schedule, especially if you're approaching your expiration date.
FAQs about Renewing Your Real Estate License in Maine
Got questions about renewing your real estate license in Maine? You’re not alone. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions—and clear answers to help you stay on track.
Can You Renew a Real Estate License After it Expires?
Yes, but there’s a catch. If your license expires, you can still renew it, though you’ll be charged a late fee. More importantly, you cannot legally practice real estate while your license is inactive, which could lead to disciplinary action or fines.
If too much time passes, you may be required to complete extra coursework—or even retake the exam—so it’s best to renew as soon as possible. When in doubt, check with the Maine Real Estate Commission for the latest policies on expired licenses.
How Much Does a Real Estate License Renewal Cost in Maine?
The total renewal cost depends on two main factors: the state renewal fee and your continuing education (CE) costs. Here's a general estimate:
- State Renewal Fee: $100 (for Associate Brokers and Brokers)
- Late Fee: $50 (if renewing after your expiration date)
- Continuing Education Costs: Usually between $99–$300, depending on the provider and package.
Keep in mind that fees may change, so it’s always smart to confirm current pricing with both your CE provider and the Commission.
What Can I Expect From an Online Continuing Education Course?
Online programs in Maine are designed to be flexible and compliant with state requirements. You’ll typically get access to video modules, reading materials, and quizzes—all focused on Maine’s latest laws, ethics, and real estate best practices.
Here are a few examples of course topics you might see:
- Maine’s Core Course: Reasonable Care & Diligence
- Veteran Homebuyer Programs
- Risk Management & Document Diligence
- Personal Safety in Real Estate
- Creating a Market Analysis
- Red Flags in Property Inspections
- Basics of Residential Property Management
Courses offered through US Realty Training’s CE partners are 100% online, state-approved, and self-paced—perfect for fitting into a busy schedule while still checking all the boxes for renewal.
How Long is a Continuing Education Course?
Continuing education courses in Maine are typically broken into manageable chunks. Most elective modules run 2–3 hours each, while the mandatory Core Course is 3 hours on its own. You’ll complete a total of 21 hours, and you can mix and match approved courses to meet that requirement.
Just make sure you wrap up all your CE within the two years leading up to your license renewal date—no partial credit is given if you miss the deadline.
Final Thoughts on Renewing a Real Estate License in Maine
Staying licensed in Maine doesn’t have to be stressful. With a clear plan—complete your 21 hours of CE, submit your renewal application, and pay the renewal fee—you’ll keep your license active and avoid any interruptions to your career.
Whether you're an Associate Broker, Broker, or Designated Broker, maintaining your license helps you keep serving clients and building your business with confidence.
Ready to get started?
Enroll in our partnered Maine continuing education program. Learn at your own pace and stay on top of your license requirements—click below to begin.
Affiliate has an agreement with The CE Shop to promote online course information to consumers and real estate licensees. Affiliate is not the developer of these courses and is simply providing a referral. All education is provided by The CE Shop and any questions regarding course content or course technology should be directed to The CE Shop.
TL;DR: Maine associate, broker, and designated-broker licenses expire every two years. Complete 21 CE hours—including the 3-hour Core Course—then submit the online renewal and pay about $100 before your expiration date. Sales agents cannot renew; they must upgrade to associate broker. Miss the deadline and a $50 late fee applies, and you must stop practicing until reinstated.