1.4 License Maintenance and Renewal
Key Takeaways
- Delaware real estate licenses must be renewed every 2 years (biennial renewal)
- License term runs May 1 through April 30 of even-numbered years
- Continuing education requires 21 hours per renewal period, including 7 required modules
- Newly licensed salespersons must complete specific modules within their first year
- Late renewal is possible with reinstatement requirements; expired licenses may require requalification
Delaware real estate licenses require ongoing maintenance through continuing education and timely renewal.
License Term and Expiration
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| License Term | 2 years (biennial) |
| Expiration Date | April 30 of even-numbered years |
| Renewal Period | May 1 - April 30 |
| Renewal Method | Online through licensing portal |
All Delaware real estate licenses expire on April 30 of even-numbered years (2026, 2028, etc.).
Continuing Education Requirements
Standard CE (21 hours every 2 years)
| Category | Hours |
|---|---|
| Required Modules | 7 (one per module) |
| Total Minimum CE | 21 hours |
Seven Required CE Modules
Delaware has a unique requirement of seven specific modules that must be completed each renewal period:
| Module | Topic |
|---|---|
| Module 1 | Agency |
| Module 2 | Fair Housing |
| Module 3 | Ethics |
| Module 4 | Legislative Update |
| Module 5 | Contract |
| Module 6 | Land Use |
| Module 7 | Elective (Various topics) |
Each module is approximately 3 hours, totaling 21 hours minimum.
Newly Licensed Salesperson Requirements
Delaware has additional requirements for newly licensed salespersons:
| Requirement | Timeframe |
|---|---|
| Post-License Education | 12 hours within 90 days of initial license |
| First-Year Modules | Specific modules within first year |
Important: Newly licensed salespersons have additional education requirements beyond the standard CE.
Renewal Fees
| Item | Fee (Approximate) |
|---|---|
| Biennial Renewal | ~$120 |
| Late Fee | Additional penalty |
Late Renewal and Lapsed Licenses
Renewal After Expiration
If your license expires but you renew within specified timeframes:
| Timeframe | Consequence |
|---|---|
| 0-30 days late | Late fee applies |
| 30 days - 3 years late | Must complete all CE, pay fees, reinstatement requirements |
| Cannot practice | License is inactive until renewed |
| CE still required | Must complete all CE requirements |
Expired More Than 3 Years
If your license has been expired for more than 3 years:
- May need to requalify as a new applicant
- May need to retake pre-license education
- Must pass the licensing exam again
- Apply as a new applicant
License Status Types
| Status | Meaning | Can Practice? |
|---|---|---|
| Active | Current, affiliated with broker | Yes |
| Inactive | Valid but not affiliated with broker | No |
| Expired | Not renewed | No |
| Suspended | Commission disciplinary action | No |
| Revoked | License permanently cancelled | No |
Inactive Status
A licensee may maintain inactive status if:
- Not currently affiliated with a broker
- Must still complete CE for renewal
- Cannot perform any licensed activities
To reactivate, affiliate with a broker and notify Commission.
Change Notifications
Licensees must notify the Commission within 10 days of:
- Change of home address
- Change of business address
- Change of employing broker
- Change of legal name
Failure to maintain current contact information is a violation.
Reciprocity with Other States
Delaware may have reciprocity agreements with certain states:
Requirements for Out-of-State Licensees
- Must hold an active license in good standing
- May waive some education requirements
- Must pass the Delaware state portion of the exam
- Must meet Delaware background check requirements
- Must affiliate with a Delaware broker
Note: Specific reciprocity terms vary. Check with the Commission for current agreements.
What is the license term for Delaware real estate licenses?
How many hours of continuing education are required for Delaware license renewal?
How many required CE modules must Delaware licensees complete each renewal period?