License renewal
North Carolina real estate license renewal and CE
Renewals are handled by the North Carolina Real Estate Commission (NCREC). Summary checked against the official sources in October 2026.
Renewal cycle
Every North Carolina license expires June 30 each year. Renew online between May 15 and June 30; the fee is $50. Renew by June 30 even if your CE is not done.
Continuing education
- 8 hours of CE each annual license period (July 1 to June 30): the 4-hour Update course plus one 4-hour approved elective.
- CE is due by June 10 to keep the license on active status.
First renewal
- A broker newly licensed by exam or reinstatement has no CE in the first license year, but must complete the 8 hours before the second renewal to stay active.
- Postlicensing (90 hours within 18 months) is separate from CE and is a one-time requirement.
Late or expired
- If you do not renew by June 30, the license expires and you must stop brokerage work. You then apply for reinstatement; the Commission's Reinstate page has the requirements.
Official sources
- NCREC, License renewal FAQs
- NCREC, Real Estate Licensing in North Carolina (PDF, April 2026)
- NCREC, Apply for a license
This page is general information, not legal advice. Rules change, so always confirm with the official source before you pay or file anything.
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