Completing continuing education (CE) courses is a requirement for keeping your Arkansas real estate license. However, some CE courses are more helpful than others. If you must take classes to renew your Arkansas real estate license, why not choose an education provider that offers valuable content and useful resources?
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to meet continuing education (CE) requirements and renew your Arkansas real estate license in order to avoid costly delays or penalties.
This guide is for Arkansas salespersons and brokers. Let’s ensure your career stays on track!
Key Takeaways
- Annual Renewal Deadline with Cost Incentives: Arkansas real estate licenses must be renewed annually by December 31. Renewing early—by September 30—reduces fees and helps avoid system delays. Late renewals are allowed through March 31 with penalties; after that, the license expires.
- Seven Hours of CE Required Annually: All active licensees must complete 7 hours of continuing education (CE), with required courses differing for salespersons, brokers, and associate brokers. Courses must be taken from AREC-approved providers, and elective choices can boost business skills.
- Online and Mail Renewal Options Available: Licensees can renew their license either online or by mail, provided they submit complete forms and payment.
- Avoid Common Mistakes and Plan Ahead: Procrastination, using unapproved CE providers, or assuming your CE was reported can delay your renewal. Use tools like the AREC portal and license lookup to confirm CE status, and consider a McKissock CE Membership for quality, flexible CE courses.
Who Needs to Renew and When
Both salespersons and brokers in Arkansas are required to renew their licenses annually. Here are the key dates to keep in mind:
- Renewal Deadline: December 31 each year. Please note that renewal fees are less expensive when completed by September 30.
- Late Renewal Period: Through March 31 of the following year (late fees apply)
- License Expiration: If not renewed by March 31, the license is officially considered expired.
Failing to renew on time leads to inactive status, which prevents you from practicing real estate until your license is reactivated.
Pro Tip: Mark your calendar for September 30 to ensure you complete your renewal early and avoid system delays during the holiday season.
2025 Continuing Education Requirements for Arkansas Real Estate Licensees
Staying updated with industry knowledge helps you serve your clients better and grow professionally. That’s why renewal of your real estate license requires completing the CE set by the Arkansas Real Estate Commission (AREC).
All active licensees in Arkansas must complete seven hours of CE in 2025. The required courses vary depending on your license type. Here’s a breakdown of the tracks and requirements:
Track 1 – Principal Brokers and Executive Brokers
- 1-hour Required Safety Course
- 3-hour 2025 Required Broker Supervision and Agency Course
- 3-hour Elective Course
Track 2 – Salesperson Licensees
- 3-hour 2025 Required Agency Representation & Compensation Course
- 3-hour Elective Course
- 1-hour Required Safety Course
Options for Associate Brokers
Associate Brokers have the flexibility to choose between Track 1 or Track 2. However, if you plan to become a supervising broker in the future, it is highly recommended to follow Track 1.
By completing the appropriate track and selecting courses that align with your goals, you’ll not only meet your CE requirements but also enhance your skills to excel in the real estate industry.
Important guidelines
- Choosing a Real Estate School: Only courses from accredited schools qualify. You can find a directory of approved providers on the AREC website.
- Deadline: All CE requirements must be completed by December 31 to renew your license on time.
- Post-Licensure Education: New licensees are required to complete additional post-licensure requirements within their first six months.
- Reporting CE: Most education providers report CE completion directly to the Arkansas Real Estate Commission (AREC). If your provider does not report electronically, you must mail your CE certificates to the AREC.
Tip for Pros: Want to maximize the value of your CE credits? Look for elective courses that improve your negotiation skills or enhance marketing strategies, helping you grow your business and increase your income.
Can You Complete the Arkansas Real Estate License Renewal Online?
Yes, Arkansas brokers and salespersons can renew their real estate licenses online. Here’s what you need to know about the process for online and mail renewals:
Renewing your license online
- Information You’ll Need:
- Enter your birth date in this format, including slashes and the full year (e.g., 01/09/1956).
- Input your complete license number, ensuring all zeros are included (e.g., PB00001234 or SA00057890).
- Accepted Payment Methods:
- Visa
- MasterCard
- Discover
- American Express
- eCheck
Renewing your license by mail
- Required Documents:
- Include the proper renewal form.
- Enclose the renewal fees in the same submission. Note that fees submitted without the corresponding form (or vice versa) will be returned, resulting in delays.
- Where to Send: 612 South Summit Street; Little Rock, AR 72201-4740
How Much Does It Cost to Renew Your Real Estate License in Arkansas?
- Early renewal ensures a smoother process and avoids late fees.
- Fees Before/On September 30, 2025:
- Broker: $80
- Salesperson: $60
- Duplicate License: $30
- After September 30, 2025:
- Broker: $110
- Salesperson: $80
- Duplicate License: $60
Additionally, the costs of CE courses vary depending on the provider.
Plan Ahead: Renew before September 30 to avoid penalty fees and ensure you’re approved before the December rush.
What Happens If You Miss the Renewal Deadline?
Failing to renew your license by December 31 doesn’t mean it’s the end of your career, but it does come with consequences. Here’s what happens:
- Inactive Status: Your license becomes inactive on January 1.
- Late Renewal Period: You can renew with penalties until March 31, but you cannot practice real estate during this time.
- Expiration: After March 31, your license is considered expired, and you’ll need to complete the reinstatement process to regain active status.
Avoid the Hassle: Renewing before September 30 saves you time and money.
Steps to Reactivate an Expired or Inactive License
If your license has expired or is inactive, here’s how you can reactivate it:
- Submit the Reinstatement Form: Download the form from AREC’s website.
- Pay the Reinstatement Fee: Fees vary depending on the length of time the license has been inactive.
- Complete CE Hours: Ensure you complete the required CE hours before applying.
- Wait for Approval: AREC will notify you once your license returns to active status.
Note: Always double-check that your CE hours have been reported to AREC from your course provider.
Common Renewal Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t fall into these common pitfalls when renewing your Arkansas real estate license:
- Procrastinating: Waiting until the last week of December increases the risk of system delays and errors.
- Choosing the Wrong CE Provider: Always verify that your provider is approved by the AREC.
- Incomplete Application: Double-check all information before submitting your renewal online, including your license number and CE details.
- Assuming CE is Automatically Reported: Confirm with your provider that CE completion has been sent to AREC.
Stay diligent to ensure a smooth and stress-free renewal process!
Resources for a Seamless Renewal
Here’s a quick list of resources to help you renew your license with confidence:
- Arkansas Real Estate Commission (AREC): Visit the website
- AREC Online Services Portal: Submit license renewals and track CE hours
- CE Course Provider Directory: Find approved CE providers for required courses
- License Status Lookup Tool: Verify your license and CE completion
Answers to Additional Questions
1. Can I renew my Arkansas real estate license early?
Yes, you can renew your license before the December 31 expiration date. Early renewal is encouraged to avoid any last-minute issues. For licenses expiring in 2025, renewal portals will open after renewal information is sent to your home address in mid-July. Completing your renewal early ensures ample time to address any errors or missing requirements.
2. What are the CE requirements for inactive license holders?
If your license is inactive, you are not required to complete CE hours while your license remains inactive. However, if you wish to reactivate your license, you must complete the required seven (7) CE hours for the year, including any mandatory courses for your license type, and pay a $30 reactivation fee.
3. Do CE hours carry over to the next year?
No, CE hours do not carry over to subsequent years. Each year, licensees must complete the required courses anew to maintain an active status. Make it a priority to complete your CE by the deadline to ensure compliance.
4. How do I confirm that AREC received my CE hours?
Most CE providers report your completed hours electronically to the AREC. However, it is your responsibility to verify that your hours are recorded correctly. You can check your CE status using the AREC License Status Lookup Tool or by contacting the commission directly. If your CE provider does not report electronically, you must mail your course completion certificates to AREC yourself.
5. Are there CE exemptions for military personnel or individuals with long-standing licenses?
Yes, certain exemptions may apply. Active military personnel and veterans may qualify for CE waivers or extensions on a case-by-case basis. Additionally, the AREC may provide exemptions or reduced requirements for licensees who have held their license in good standing for many years. If you think you may qualify, please contact the AREC to discuss your eligibility and the required documentation.
By understanding these unique situations and requirements, you can ensure your license remains compliant while accommodating personal circumstances or goals.
Meeting your continuing education (CE) requirements doesn’t have to be just another task on your to-do list. With a McKissock Learning CE Membership, you’ll gain access to expertly designed courses that not only fulfill Arkansas CE requirements but also empower you to excel as a real estate professional.
From essential topics like agency representation and safety practices to elective courses tailored to your specific goals, our flexible online format makes it easy to learn at your own pace. Plus, our engaging, industry-approved content is designed to sharpen your skills, boost your credibility, and help you stand out in the competitive Arkansas real estate market.
Join thousands of real estate professionals who trust McKissock Learning to stay compliant and ahead in their careers. Sign up for a McKissock CE Membership today to complete your Arkansas continuing education courses and start growing into the agent you’ve always aspired to be.
