Georgia Real Estate Continuing Education Requirements: What Every Agent Needs to Know

If you hold a Georgia real estate license, staying compliant with the state’s continuing education requirements is essential for keeping your license active. Unlike many states that require annual or biannual continuing education, Georgia’s schedule is more flexible, with renewals only required every four years. That said, agents and brokers still need to pay close attention to deadlines, course requirements, and rule changes from the Georgia Real Estate Commission (GREC) to avoid costly lapses.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the Georgia real estate continuing education requirements, explain recent changes for brokers, and provide practical tips to help you stay on top of your license renewal.

Georgia Real Estate CE Basics

Every four years, Georgia licensees must complete 36 hours of continuing education to renew their real estate licenses. These hours are intended to ensure that professionals stay updated on industry changes, best practices, and state laws.

The 36 hours include:

• 3 hours of mandatory License Law education – This ensures all licensees are well-versed in the statutes and regulations governing the real estate industry in Georgia.

• 33 additional elective hours of CE courses – These may cover a wide range of real estate-related topics such as contracts, finance, ethics, risk management, and fair housing.

When it comes to providers, licensees can choose between online schools and in-person classes. Both options are widely available across Georgia, so it comes down to your learning style and schedule. Online courses offer flexibility, while classroom options provide direct interaction with instructors.

Georgia Real Estate Continuing Education Requirements for Brokers

While the general CE requirements apply to all licensees, brokers face additional requirements starting July 1, 2025. Under the updated rules approved by the Governor’s office, Georgia brokers must now complete 18 hours of broker-specific CE topics as part of their 36-hour requirement.

This change is designed to ensure brokers are well-equipped to manage their firms, supervise licensees, and navigate the responsibilities unique to their role.

The broker-specific courses must:

• Be at least three credit hours long.

• Cover topics such as training licensees, supervising licensees, reviewing brokerage agreements, and managing a firm.

In short, half of a broker’s CE hours must now directly focus on the day-to-day responsibilities of running a brokerage.

Why CE Requirements Matter

The Georgia Real Estate Commission (GREC) sets these standards not to burden licensees, but to protect consumers and maintain professionalism in the industry. The real estate market is constantly changing—new laws are passed, technology evolves, and ethical challenges arise. Continuing education ensures that licensees have the tools to adapt and serve clients effectively.

Failing to complete CE requirements has serious consequences. If your CE hours are not complete when your license renewal is due, your license will be placed on inactive status. That means you cannot legally practice real estate in Georgia until your education is completed and your license is reactivated.

Renewing Your Georgia Real Estate License

In addition to completing the required continuing education, you must also:

1. Submit your renewal application through the Georgia Real Estate Commission (GREC) online system.

   
   

2. Pay the renewal fee (the fee varies usually under $100).

   
   

3. Confirm your CE completion is properly reported by your school to GREC.

It’s worth noting that if your license goes inactive due to a lapse in CE or unpaid fees, reinstatement may involve additional paperwork and late fees. Staying proactive is the easiest way to avoid unnecessary complications.

Preparing for the 2025 Broker CE Changes

If you’re a broker in Georgia, now is the time to prepare for the July 2025 CE rule changes. Many schools are already designing courses to meet the new requirements. When selecting your continuing education provider, make sure they specifically offer broker-designated CE courses that qualify toward the 18-hour mandate.

Brokers should also keep in mind that these courses are not just a formality. Training and supervision are core to running a successful real estate business, and the new rules place an emphasis on sharpening these skills. By taking the right CE classes, brokers can meet GREC’s requirements while also strengthening their ability to manage their firms.

Choosing the Right CE Provider

With dozens of schools to choose from, how do you know which CE provider is right for you? Consider the following:

• Accreditation: Always make sure the provider is approved by the Georgia Real Estate Commission.

• Flexibility: Online classes are ideal for busy professionals, while in-person courses may suit those who prefer live instruction.

• Reputation: Look for schools with strong reviews and a track record of compliance with GREC reporting requirements.

• Additional Benefits: Some schools partner with brokerages or professional organizations to offer discounts or bundled packages.

For example, through Park Place Realty Network’s partnership with The CE Shop, licensees receive 40% off continuing education and professional development courses. This makes it easier and more affordable to meet your requirements while gaining access to high-quality instruction.

How Park Place Realty Network Can Help

At Park Place Realty Network, we specialize in helping agents keep their licenses active without the high costs of traditional brokerages. If you’re an agent who doesn’t want to sell full-time but still wants to earn income, we make it possible to refer clients across the U.S. and worldwide.

When you keep your license active with us, you:

• Avoid Board of Realtors and MLS fees.

• Maintain your license in good standing.

• Earn 22.5% of the total commission on every closed referral.

• Have the flexibility to live anywhere in the world while still profiting from your license.

Many of our agents combine our referral program with affordable CE options, making it a cost-effective way to keep their licenses active long term.

Final Thoughts

The Georgia real estate continuing education requirements are clear: 36 hours every four years, including 3 hours of License Law. Starting in 2025, brokers must also complete 18 hours of broker-specific CE topics to strengthen their management and supervisory skills.

While the process may seem like another box to check, it’s also an opportunity to grow your knowledge and remain competitive in the industry. Whether you’re a new sales associate or a seasoned broker, the key is to stay proactive, choose the right CE provider, and plan ahead for your renewal.

If you’re not actively selling real estate but want to keep your license active and profitable, Park Place Realty Network offers the perfect solution. Since 2010, we’ve been the leader in the real estate referral business, helping thousands of agents nationwide earn income through referrals. Explore your options with us at www.ParkPlaceNetwork.com and see how easy it is to combine continuing education with referral income.