Renewing a real estate license is an important process for any licensed real estate agent. In New Jersey, all real estate licenses expire on June 30th every two years. It is the responsibility of each individual agent to ensure their license is renewed before this expiration date in order to continue practicing real estate in the state.
Here is the step-by-step process on how to renew your real estate license in New Jersey. From completing the necessary continuing education requirements to submitting the renewal application, we will cover everything you need to know in order to successfully renew your license and continue your career as a real estate agent in the Garden State.
Why Renewing Your Real Estate License is Important
You must renew your real estate license to maintain your career as a real estate agent in the state of New Jersey. Having an active license allows you to legally practice real estate and demonstrates your commitment to staying up-to-date with industry regulations and knowledge.
Renewing your real estate license is important because it shows that you are a professional in the field. Clients and other professionals in the industry will have more confidence in working with someone who has an active license, as they know that individual has met all necessary requirements and is dedicated to their career.
It also communicates that you are knowledgeable about any new laws or regulations that may have been implemented since your initial licensing. The real estate industry is constantly evolving and it is important for agents to stay informed and educated in order to best serve their clients.
Renewing your real estate license also allows you to continue accessing valuable resources and opportunities within the industry. Many associations, organizations, and networking events require an active license in order to participate or hold certain positions. By renewing your license, you are able to maintain your membership and continue growing your career.
In NJ you can’t practice without one. Facilitating the purchase and sale of real estate without a valid license is illegal in New Jersey. An individual can not engage in any activity that requires a real estate license without having an active one. Failure to renew your license can result in penalties and even suspension or revocation of your license.
Steps for Renewing Your Real Estate License in New Jersey
The process of renewing your real estate license in New Jersey may seem daunting, but it can be easily completed by following these simple steps.
Complete the Required Continuing Education (CE) Credits
In order to renew your real estate license in New Jersey, you must complete a total of 12 continuing education (CE) credit hours. These credits must be completed before the expiration date of your current license and can be obtained through approved education providers. Some real estate broker offices will help to coordinate continuing education credits for realtors in their offices by periodically bringing licensed instructors in to deliver a continuing education class on-site.
Of the 12 required CE credit hours, six must be in core topics such as ethics, agency law, fair housing, and legal updates, while the remaining six can be in elective topics related to real estate.
In New Jersey all credits must be completed through live classroom instruction or distance learning programs approved by the Real Estate Commission.
Continuing Education Information and Applications from the New Jersey Real Estate Commission
| Breakdown of Required CE Hours |
| According to current NJREC Statutes and Rules, 12 hours of CE coursework must be completed. |
| 1 hour – FAIR HOUSING & NJ LAW AGAINST DISCRIMINATION 2 hours – ETHICS 3 hours – CORE 6 hours – ELECTIVES: A mix, or all of the same, of any of the following four CE types: ELECTIVES or ETHICS or CORE or FAIR HOUSING 12 hours TOTAL |
| Important Note: ETHICS IS an acceptable substitute for CORE and ELECTIVES, but CORE and ELECTIVES IS NOT an acceptable substitute for ETHICS. ETHICS, FAIR HOUSING and CORE ARE acceptable to use instead of ELECTIVES. Any Salesperson Referral changing licensing types is required to complete the CE all in CORE or ETHIC topics ONLY (see chart). |
Submit the Renewal Application and Fee
Once you have completed the required CE credits, you can submit your renewal application and fee to the New Jersey Real Estate Commission. The application can be filled out online through the Commission’s website or submitted by mail.
The renewal fee for real estate salespersons is currently $100, while brokers and broker-salespersons pay a fee of $200. It is important to note that fees are subject to change, so be sure to check the State of New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance website for any updates.
Update Your Contact Information
While completing your renewal application, it is important to also update your contact information with the New Jersey Real Estate Commission. This includes your mailing address, phone number, and email address.
By keeping your contact information up-to-date, you will ensure that you receive any important updates or notifications from the Commission regarding your license. It will also make it easier for clients and other professionals to reach you if needed.
Additionally, if you have changed your name since your last license renewal, you must submit legal documentation of the name change along with your application.
Wait for Approval of the Renewal Application
After submitting your renewal application and fee, it can take up to two weeks for the New Jersey Real Estate Commission to process and approve it. Once approved, you will receive a new license certificate with an expiration date two years from the date of your previous expiration.
If there are any issues or discrepancies with your application, the Commission will contact you for further clarification or documentation. It is important to respond promptly to any requests from the Commission in order to avoid delays in renewing your license.
Once you have successfully renewed your real estate license in New Jersey you can continue practicing as a professional in the industry. Remember to keep track of your next renewal date and complete the required CE credits in a timely manner to avoid any interruptions in your career.
Can You Renew Your Real Estate License Early?
The New Jersey Real Estate Commission allows licensees to renew their licenses up to 90 days before the expiration date. This means that if your license is set to expire on December 31st, you can start the renewal process as early as October 1st.
Renewing your license early allows you to avoid any potential delays or complications that may come up closer to the expiration date. It also gives you peace of mind in knowing that your license will be renewed on time and there won’t be any disruptions in your ability to practice real estate.
Completing your CE credits and submitting your renewal application early can also give you more flexibility in terms of scheduling. If you wait until closer to the expiration date, there may be limited availability for CE courses or appointments with a professional to assist you. By renewing early, you can choose a time that works best for you and not worry about any last-minute rush.
Completing your renewal too far in advance may result in some of your CE credits expiring before your next license expiration date. In New Jersey, CE credits are valid for two years from the date they are completed. So if you renew your license three months early, you may have to retake some CE courses before your next renewal.
Mistakes to Avoid When Renewing Your Real Estate License
Renewing your real estate license can be a straightforward process, but there are some common mistakes that licensees make that can delay or even prevent their renewal. Here are some key things to avoid when renewing your real estate license in New Jersey:
- Forgetting to update contact information: As mentioned earlier, it is crucial to keep your contact information up to date with the New Jersey Real Estate Commission. Failure to do so may result in missing important notifications or updates regarding your license.
- Not completing the required CE credits: Renewal requirements for real estate licenses include completing a certain number of continuing education (CE) credits. Some licensees may forget about this requirement or wait until the last minute to complete their credits, leading to delays in their renewal.
- Missing the renewal deadline: It is important to submit your renewal application and fee before the expiration date of your license. Failure to do so may result in a late fee and potentially even a suspension of your license.
- Not responding promptly to requests from the Commission: If the Commission requires any additional information or documentation for your renewal, it is crucial to respond in a timely manner. Failure to do so may result in delays and possible penalties.
- Not seeking professional assistance if needed: Renewing a real estate license can be a complex process, especially for new licensees. It is always beneficial to seek the help of a professional, such as a real estate attorney or experienced broker, to ensure that all requirements are met and your renewal is submitted correctly.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can have a smooth and successful renewal process for your real estate license in New Jersey. Remember to stay organized, keep track of important dates and deadlines, and seek assistance if needed.
Does Your Real Estate License Expire If You Don’t Renew It?
Yes, your real estate license will expire if you do not renew it before the expiration date. In New Jersey, real estate licenses are valid for two years from the date of issue and must be renewed before the expiration date to continue practicing.
If your license expires, you will have to reapply for a new license and complete all initial licensing requirements, including pre-licensing education and passing the state exam. This can be a lengthy and costly process, so it is important to stay on top of your renewal deadlines.
If you miss the renewal deadline, there is still a grace period of one year in which you can renew your license without having to complete all initial licensing requirements. During this one-year grace period, you will have to pay a late fee in addition to the renewal fee.
If your license has expired, you are still required to complete any outstanding CE credits before renewing. If your license has been expired for more than five years, you will be required to retake the state exam as well.
It is always recommended to renew your license on time and avoid any potential complications that may arise if you let it expire. Keep track of your expiration date and set reminders for yourself to ensure that you do not miss the deadline.
Tips for a Smooth Renewal Process
To avoid any delays or issues with renewing your real estate license, here are some helpful tips to keep in mind:
- Stay organized: Keep all important documents related to your license renewal, such as CE certificates and the renewal application, in one easily accessible place. This will help you stay on top of deadlines and ensure that you have all the necessary information when it is time to renew.
- Complete your CE credits on time: Make sure to complete your required CE credits before the renewal deadline. It is always beneficial to complete them in advance to avoid any last-minute rush or potential expiration of credits.
- Keep your contact information updated: As discussed earlier, it is crucial to keep your contact information up to date with the New Jersey Real Estate Commission. This will ensure that you receive all important notifications and updates regarding your license.
- Respond promptly to requests from the Commission: If the Commission requires any additional information or documentation for your renewal, make sure to respond in a timely manner. This will help avoid any delays or penalties.
Remember that it is your responsibility to ensure that your real estate license is renewed on time and in compliance with all state requirements. By following these tips and avoiding common mistakes, you can have a smooth and successful renewal process.
Contact Ocean School of Real Estate for more information
Come to Ocean School of Real Estate if you are interested in pursuing a career in real estate sales or becoming a licensed broker. With over 40 years of experience, our school has been a leader in providing quality real estate education.
We offer flexible class schedules including weekdays, evenings, and Saturdays for your convenience. Our courses cover all aspects of the real estate industry and are designed to help you pass the licensing exam.
We also offer online classes for broker pre-licensing courses. Our team of experienced instructors are dedicated to preparing you for success in your real estate career. Specialized courses in ethics and office management to further enhance your knowledge and skills.
Don’t let your real estate license expire or miss out on the opportunity to enter this exciting field. Contact Ocean School of Real Estate the Jersey Shore today for more information and enroll in our classes to start your journey towards a successful career in real estate.
For all Continuing Education (CE) related questions, contact the New Jersey Real Estate Commission, Education Bureau at 609-292-7272 or by e-mail at: realestate@dobi.nj.gov
Renewing your real estate license is an essential part of maintaining your career as a real estate professional
By following these tips and staying informed about the renewal process, you can ensure a smooth and successful renewal experience.
Remember to stay organized, complete CE credits on time, keep your contact information up to date, and respond promptly to any requests from the Commission. And if you are considering a career in real estate, don’t hesitate to contact Ocean School of Real Estate the Jersey Shore for quality education and preparation for the licensing exam.
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Call 732-477-8772
FAQs
Can I renew my real estate license if it has already expired?
If your license has been expired for less than one year, you can still renew it by paying a late fee in addition to the renewal fee. If it has been more than one year, you will have to reapply for a new license and complete all initial licensing requirements.
Do I need to complete continuing education (CE) credits before renewing my license?
Yes, you are required to complete any outstanding CE credits before renewing your license. Failure to do so may result in delays or penalties.
How can I stay on top of my renewal deadlines?
It is recommended to keep track of your expiration date and set reminders for yourself. You can also check the New Jersey Real Estate Commission’s website for any updates or changes to the renewal process.
Can I submit my renewal application early?
Yes, submitting your application early can save you money and give you more flexibility in scheduling. It also allows for any unexpected issues to be addressed before the expiration date.
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