How to Renew a Real Estate License in Washington

Renewing your real estate license in Washington is essential to staying compliant and continuing your career as a broker or managing broker. 

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the renewal process, including Washington’s continuing education (CE) requirements, step-by-step renewal options, and associated costs. 

Whether you’re a first-time licensee or a seasoned professional, this resource will help you navigate the renewal process with ease.

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

In Washington State, real estate brokers and managing brokers are required to fulfill continuing education (CE) requirements every two years to maintain their licenses. 

The renewal deadline aligns with their birthday, making it crucial to stay on top of these requirements. CE obligations differ depending on whether you are a broker or managing broker.

Steps to Renew Your Real Estate License

Renewing your license requires completing CE requirements, possibly renewing your fingerprint-based background check, and submitting your renewal application.

1. Complete Continuing Education Requirements

Broker First Renewal (90 hours total)

Mandatory Courses:

• 30-hour Advanced Practices Course
• 30-hour Real Estate Law Course (includes 3 hours of Fair Housing)
• 3-hour Current Issues in Washington Residential Real Estate Course

Elective Courses:

• 27 hours of additional elective CE

Fair Housing:

• Complete the 6-hour Washington Real Estate Fair Housing course during initial education.
• Subsequent renewals require a 3-hour Fair Housing course.

Broker Subsequent Renewals (30 hours total)

Mandatory Courses:

• 3-hour Current Issues in Washington Residential Real Estate Course

Elective Courses:

• 27 hours of elective CE (15 hours must be completed within 24 months before renewal; the other 15 hours can be from the previous 48 months if not reused).

Managing Broker Renewal (30 hours total)

Mandatory Courses:

• 3-hour Current Issues in Washington Residential Real Estate Course

Elective Courses:

• 27 hours of additional elective CE (same timing rules as brokers)

Fair Housing:

• Initial 6-hour Fair Housing course required.
• Subsequent renewals require a 3-hour Fair Housing course

Enroll in US Realty Training’s partnered programs for comprehensive CE courses that meet Washington's requirements.

2. Renew Fingerprint-Based Background Check

Every six years, you must renew your fingerprint-based background check. If your results have expired, submit fingerprints before renewing your license.

• In-state residents: Schedule an appointment with IdentoGO/Idemia.
• Out-of-state residents: Follow the Department of Licensing’s instructions for submitting fingerprints.

Background check results typically take up to 14 business days to process.

3. Submit Your Renewal Application

Renewals can be completed online or by mail:

Online: Log into SecureAccess Washington (SAW) and follow the prompts.

By Mail: Submit a completed renewal form with payment to:

• Real Estate Licensing
  Department of Licensing
  PO Box 3856
  Seattle, WA 98124-3856

FAQs about Renewing Your Real Estate License in Washington

Can You Renew a Real Estate License After it Expires?

You can reinstate your license if it has been canceled for less than two years. However, if your license expired more than three years ago, you will need to apply for a new license.

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

• Real Estate Broker:some text
  • On-time Renewal: $223
  • Late Renewal: $263
• Managing Broker:some text
  • On-time Renewal: $320
  • Late Renewal: $360

These fees do not include CE or fingerprinting costs.

What Can I Expect From an Online Continuing Education Course?

Online CE courses provide flexibility and convenience. They cover required topics like Fair Housing, Washington real estate law, and current issues, with interactive modules and quizzes. US Realty Training offers courses tailored to Washington’s CE requirements.

How Long is a Continuing Education Course?

The length varies based on the course you are taking. 

You can finish the course within a few days to a few weeks depending on your schedule and pace. Online courses provide the flexibility to complete the required hours at your convenience.

Final Thoughts on Renewing a Real Estate License in Washington

Renewing your real estate license is a straightforward process when you stay ahead of deadlines and complete your CE requirements. Whether you're a broker or a managing broker, timely renewal ensures uninterrupted practice and compliance with state laws.

Take the next step in your career by enrolling in US Realty Training’s continuing education programs today. Click Enroll Now to get started!