Renew Your Florida Real Estate License for the First Time (2026)

If you need to renew your Florida real estate license for the first time, the process is different from future renewals and requires specific education. This guide explains step by step how to complete the DBPR renewal, finish your 45-hour post-licensing course in Florida, and keep your license active. Whether you’re searching for the Florida real estate post license course requirements or trying to understand Florida post license real estate rules in general, this article covers exactly what you need.


Requirements to Renew Your Florida Real Estate License for the First Time

To renew your Florida real estate license for the first time, you must complete the following:

  • 45-hour post-licensing course approved by the Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC).
  • Pass the final exam at the end of the course.
  • Submit your renewal through the DBPR online portal and pay the required fee.

👉 Without completing this, your license becomes null and void, and you must start over from pre-license education.


When Does Your Florida Real Estate License Expire?

  • Your first renewal occurs 18–24 months after obtaining your initial license.
  • Florida has two renewal dates: March 31 and September 30.
  • The exact expiration date is printed on your license.

If you do not renew your Florida real estate license for the first time on time, you cannot legally practice.


DBPR Online Process to Renew Your Florida Real Estate License for the First Time

Step 1: Complete the 45-Hour Post-Licensing Course

  1. Enroll in a FREC-approved provider.
  2. Finish all 45 hours (no partial credit allowed).
  3. Pass the final exam.

Step 2: Verify Credit Hours

Your provider reports completion directly to DBPR, but always confirm credits in your online account and keep your certificate.

Step 3: Renew Online via DBPR

  1. Visit the DBPR license portal.
  2. Create an account and link your license.
  3. Submit your renewal application.
  4. Pay the required fee.

Step 4: Download Your Updated License

Once processed, log in to download your updated license from the DBPR system.


Costs to Renew Your Florida Real Estate License for the First Time (2026)

  • DBPR Renewal Fee (Sales Associates): $32–$64
  • 45-Hour Post-Licensing Course: $100–$500 depending on provider. At Dolphin School of Real Estate the Florida real estate post license course is $129.99 with 12 months of access.

Future Renewals After the First Time

After your first renewal, the 45-hour requirement is replaced by 14 hours of continuing education every two years. You only take the post-licensing course once. See our Florida continuing education course for the details on that cycle.

Not sure which requirement applies to you? Our guide to Florida real estate license renewal covers both paths, deadlines, and DBPR fees in one place.


Key Tips to Renew Your Florida Real Estate License for the First Time

  • Start early: Don’t wait until the last month.
  • Verify credits: Check DBPR after completing the course.
  • Update your contact info: Make sure DBPR has your current mailing address.

FAQ

How much does it cost to renew a Florida real estate license for the first time?

The cost of the first Florida real estate license renewal includes the DBPR renewal fee (about $32–$64) plus the required 45-hour post-licensing course in Florida, which ranges from $100–$500 depending on the provider. At Dolphin School of Real Estate the course is $129.99.

What happens if I don’t renew my Florida real estate license on time?

If you don’t complete the 45-hour post-licensing course before your renewal deadline, your license becomes null and void. This means you must start over, including taking the pre-license course and passing the state exam again.

Can I renew my Florida real estate license online?

Yes. You can complete the entire Florida real estate license renewal process online through the DBPR portal. This includes verifying your credits, submitting your application, and paying the renewal fee.

What is the difference between a post license course and post-licensing?

They’re the same requirement. “Post license course” and “post-licensing course” both refer to the mandatory 45-hour Florida real estate post license course required before your first renewal.