How to renew your real estate license in Washington, DC
Washington, DC real estate licenses must be renewed every two years through the District of Columbia Real Estate Commission. To renew an active license, real estate salespersons, associate brokers, and brokers must complete continuing education requirements, submit a renewal application, and pay the required renewal fee before the expiration date.
Washington, DC real estate license renewal steps
Washington, DC real estate licenses renew every two years with different renewal deadlines for salespersons and brokers:
- Salesperson renewal deadline: August 31 of odd-numbered years
- Broker and associate broker renewal deadline: February 28 of odd-numbered years
Renew your license before the expiration date to avoid interruptions to your ability to practice real estate.
Step 1
Complete your continuing education requirements
Before renewing your license, complete all required continuing education.
Salesperson continuing education requirements: 15 hours
For the current renewal cycle, Washington, DC real estate salespersons must complete the following:
- 9 hours of mandated courses approved by the Commission
- 3 hours of property management coursework
- 3 hours of general elective coursework
Broker and associate broker continuing education requirements: 15 hours
For the current Washington, DC renewal cycle, real estate brokers and associate brokers must complete:
- 9 hours of mandated courses approved by the Commission
- 3 hours of property management coursework
- 3 hours of broker supervision coursework
Be sure to save your course completion certificates and maintain copies for your records.
Pro Tip: Complete your continuing education well before your expiration date to avoid delays or renewal issues.
Step 2
Access the Access DC renewal portal
Washington, DC real estate license renewals are completed online through the Access DC portal.
To renew online:
- Log into your Access DC account
- Verify your license information is accurate
- Confirm your continuing education requirements are complete
- Complete the online renewal application
Licensees should review their contact information and ensure all required documentation is current before renewing.
Failure to receive a renewal notice does not relieve licensees of the responsibility to renew on time.
Step 3
Submit your renewal application and pay your renewal fee
Current Washington, DC real estate renewal fees include:
- Salesperson renewal fee: $130
- Associate broker renewal fee: $180
- Broker renewal fee: $180
After submitting payment:
- Save your renewal confirmation
- Verify your updated license status online
- Download and save your updated license information for your records
Washington, DC does not provide a grace period after the renewal deadline. If renewal requirements are not completed on time, the license becomes inactive immediately.
Quick renewal facts
Here are a few additional renewal details to keep in mind before submitting your application.
- Renewal cycle: Every 2 years
- Salesperson renewal deadline: August 31 of odd-numbered years
- Broker and associate broker renewal deadline: February 28 of odd-numbered years
- Salesperson continuing education requirement: 15 hours
- Broker and associate broker continuing education requirement: 15 hours
- Renewal method: Online through Access DC
- Grace period after expiration: None
- Inactive license maximum period: 5 years
Continue growing beyond renewal requirements
A Colibri Real Estate CE Membership gives you access to continuing education, career development resources, and professional growth opportunities designed to support you beyond your next renewal.
Depending on your membership level, benefits may include:
- Unlimited access to state-approved continuing education courses in Washington, DC
- Learning Snacks with short trainings, templates, checklists, and business resources
- Discounts on certifications like Certified Negotiation Expert, Certified Buyer Agent Expert, and Real Estate AI Specialist (Included FREE in a Pro or Premier package)
- AI MasterTracks training focused on using AI for lead generation, client communication, marketing workflows, and repeat business strategies
Whether you’re focused on staying compliant, building expertise, or growing your business, a Colibri Real Estate CE Membership helps you continue building momentum throughout your real estate career.
Are you licensed in multiple states? Multi-state membership options are available!
Colibri Real Estate also offers CE packages and individual courses for Washington, DC real estate professionals.
FAQs
Washington, DC does not provide a grace period for real estate license renewal.
If renewal requirements are not completed by the expiration date, the license becomes inactive immediately.
Licensees may not legally practice real estate with an inactive or expired license.
Yes. Washington, DC real estate licenses may be renewed online through the Access DC portal. You can also complete your CE requirements online.
Yes. Expired Washington, DC real estate licenses may be reinstated by completing current continuing education requirements, paying applicable reinstatement fees, and meeting all current licensing requirements.
A Washington, DC real estate license may remain inactive for up to five consecutive years.
If a license remains inactive longer than five years, the licensee may be required to apply as a new applicant unless the Commission determines there was reasonable cause or excusable neglect.
No. Licensees on inactive status may not practice, attempt to practice, or offer to practice real estate in Washington, DC.
Note: This license renewal information is provided as a convenience only and is subject to change at any time. It’s ultimately the responsibility of the licensee to be sure they are meeting all requirements for each license and corresponding renewal period.