How to Renew a Real Estate License in Minnesota

If it's time to renew your Minnesota real estate license, you're in the right place. In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what you need to do to stay active and compliant, from how long your license is valid to the full renewal process. 

We’ll also cover key details like renewal fees, continuing education requirements, and important deadlines, so you can keep your real estate career on track with confidence.

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

In Minnesota, real estate salesperson and broker licenses are valid for two years. 

The renewal deadline usually falls on June 30 of your second year. To keep your license active, make sure you complete your continuing education and file your renewal before the deadline—missing it could mean letting your license lapse.

Steps to Renew Your Real Estate License

Renewing your license is a straightforward process, but it’s best to get started early to steer clear of last-minute stress. 

Here are the key steps to follow:

• Confirm your renewal deadline
• Finish your required continuing education (CE) hours
• Select a state-approved CE provider
• Submit your renewal application
• Pay the renewal fee

Let’s take a closer look at what each step involves, so you can feel confident and prepared as you move through the renewal process.

1. Confirm Your Renewal Deadline

Start by double-checking your license expiration date. In Minnesota, real estate licenses for both salespersons and brokers typically expire on June 30 of the second year in your license cycle. To be sure, visit the Minnesota Department of Commerce website or refer to any official notices you've received regarding your license status.

2. Finish your Required Continuing Education (CE) Hours

Minnesota real estate professionals must complete 30 hours of continuing education every two years—15 hours per year—to stay in good standing. Each year’s CE must include:

• 1 hour of Fair Housing
• 1 hour of Agency Law
• 3.75 hours from the Minnesota State-Approved Annual Module (this topic varies each year)

That leaves about 9.25 elective hours annually, which you can tailor to your professional goals or areas you’d like to strengthen.

Salespersons must meet these same requirements each year across their two-year renewal cycle.
Brokers follow the same 30-hour structure, though some content in the annual module may include broker-specific material.

Staying on top of these requirements ensures your license stays active—and your skills stay sharp.

3. Select a Partnered CE Program

Once you know how many hours you need, the next step is finding a state-approved education provider. US Realty Training partners with trusted CE programs that meet all of Minnesota’s licensing requirements. Most courses are offered online, giving you the flexibility to complete them on your own time without disrupting your workflow.

4. Submit Your Renewal Application

With your CE hours completed, you're ready to submit your real estate license renewal through the Minnesota Department of Commerce. The application is typically submitted online, but support is available if you run into any issues or need an alternate method. 

Double-check that all information is correct to avoid delays in processing.

5. Pay the Renewal Fee

The final step is paying your $40 license renewal fee before the deadline. It’s a good idea to save a copy of your payment confirmation—either digitally or in print—as proof of submission. Timely payment ensures your license stays active and your real estate business continues without interruption.

FAQs about Renewing Your Real Estate License in Minnesota

Here are a few of the most frequently asked questions. If you don’t find the answer you need, be sure to check the Minnesota Department of Commerce website or reach out to your continuing education provider for more guidance.

Can You Renew a Real Estate License After it Expires?

Yes, but it’s not ideal. While Minnesota typically offers a short grace period, you’re not allowed to conduct real estate business once your license has expired. 

Depending on how long it’s been inactive, you might face late fees, extra requirements, or even have to reapply and retake coursework. To avoid the hassle, it’s always best to renew before the deadline.

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

The cost can vary slightly depending on whether you’re a salesperson or a broker, as well as any potential late fees:

• Renewal Fee: Approximately $40
• Late Renewal Penalties: Vary depending on how long your license has been expired
• Continuing Education Courses: $200-$500

 If you miss the renewal deadline, late fees may apply, and the longer your license is expired, the more complex (and expensive) the process can become. For the most current fee structure, always check the Minnesota Department of Commerce website.

What Can I Expect From an Online Continuing Education Course?

Online CE courses offer the flexibility to learn at your own pace, from wherever it’s most convenient. Providers like US Realty Training’s partnered programs offer engaging formats that may include video modules, quizzes, and real-world scenarios to help reinforce key concepts. Once completed, you’ll receive a certificate of completion to keep on file for your renewal.

Topics may include:

• 2024–2025 Required Module: Risk Management & Minnesota License Procedures
• Fair Housing in Minnesota
• Minnesota Agency Law
• Document Excellence for Smoother Transactions
• Keeping it Honest: Understanding Real Estate & Mortgage Fraud
• Residential Property Management Essentials
• Real Estate Auctions

These courses are designed not only to meet your CE requirements but also to strengthen your skills for real-world success in the field.

How Long is a Continuing Education Course?

Course lengths can vary depending on the topic and credit hours assigned. Most CE courses are divided into manageable modules, typically ranging from 1 to 3 hours each. 

Since Minnesota requires 30 hours of continuing education every two years, with 15 hours completed annually, you’ll likely complete your hours over time, rather than all at once. This modular format makes it easier to fit learning into your schedule without pausing your real estate business.

Final Thoughts on Renewing a Real Estate License in Minnesota

Renewing your Minnesota real estate license doesn’t have to be overwhelming. As long as you stay on top of your renewal deadline, complete the required CE hours—including Fair Housing, Agency Law, and the annual required module—and submit your application and fee on time, you’ll keep your license active and your career on track.

Looking for a convenient way to complete your hours? US Realty Training’s partnered CE programs make it easy to stay compliant and confident.

Ready to renew and keep moving forward? Click the enroll button below to get started with your continuing education today!