Every two years, Illinois real estate professionals must complete continuing education (CE) to keep their licenses active. For many, CE feels like a box to check. But the right Illinois real estate CE courses can do more than satisfy the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). They can sharpen your skills, keep you compliant, and build your long-term credibility as a professional.
This guide explains Illinois CE requirements, what to look for in providers, and how to choose courses that fit your career goals.
What Are Illinois Broker CE Requirements?
Illinois brokers renew their licenses every two years, and the requirements vary based on your original licensing date:
Licensed before November 1, 2023: 12 hours of CE by April 30, 2026. This includes 6 hours of Core (with at least 2 hours on Fair Housing), 1 hour of Sexual Harassment Prevention training, and 5 hours of electives.
Licensed between November 1, 2023, and October 31, 2025: 45 hours of Post-Licensing by April 30, 2026.
Licensed on or after November 1, 2025: 45 hours of Post-Licensing by April 30, 2028.
Managing brokers complete 24 hours of CE every two years, including 12 hours of Broker Management coursework and 12 hours of standard CE.
Leasing agents complete 8 hours of CE by July 31 of every even-numbered year, including 2 hours of Core and 6 hours of electives.
For full details, check AceableAgent’s Illinois Broker CE requirements guide and verify rules directly with the IDFPR real estate division.
How Do Managing Broker CE Rules Differ?
The biggest difference between brokers and managing brokers is the scope of their responsibility. While brokers focus on client transactions, managing brokers supervise other agents, oversee compliance, and run offices. Their 24-hour CE requirement ensures they stay current on both transactional and leadership topics.
If you’re planning to move from broker to managing broker, make sure your CE pathway supports that progression. A solid choice is combining the 12-hour Broker Management course with electives that build leadership or office management skills.
What Should You Look for in an Illinois CE Course?
When evaluating CE providers, focus on quality as much as convenience. Key criteria include:
IDFPR approval – Without this, your hours won’t count.
Relevant, updated content – Laws and market conditions change; your CE should reflect today’s realities.
Experienced instructors – Courses should be taught by professionals who understand Illinois real estate, not just generic trainers.
Flexible delivery – Online self-paced, live webinars, or in-person options depending on your schedule and learning style.
Automatic reporting – The provider should submit your hours to the IDFPR and give you a certificate for your records.
These qualities separate a course that merely checks the box from one that adds lasting value.
What Course Delivery Options Are Available?
Illinois CE courses typically come in three formats:
Online self-paced – Flexible and affordable, ideal if you’re disciplined about deadlines.
Live webinars – Interactive and structured, offering accountability without travel.
In-person classes – Traditional and often great for networking, though less convenient and more expensive.
Many Illinois agents, especially those balancing busy client schedules in markets like Chicago or Naperville, prefer online CE for the flexibility. Others in smaller towns choose in-person classes for the networking opportunities.
What Red Flags Should You Avoid?
Some providers cut corners. Be cautious if you see:
No IDFPR approval listed
Outdated content or clunky course platforms
Poor customer reviews or limited support
Confusing refund or enrollment policies
Aggressive upselling or hidden fees
A trustworthy provider will be upfront about costs and transparent about how their courses satisfy Illinois CE rules.
How Can You Choose the Best Illinois CE Course?
To make the best choice:
Confirm approval – Verify the provider is IDFPR-approved.
Match your learning style – Decide if self-paced, webinar, or classroom fits you best.
Compare providers – Look at total costs, support, and reviews.
Choose electives strategically – Pick courses that align with your career goals (e.g., commercial real estate, property management, or luxury sales).
Verify reporting – Make sure the provider submits your hours directly to the IDFPR.
With these steps, you’ll not only meet Illinois CE requirements but also turn them into a strategic career advantage.
Making CE Work for Your Career
Treat CE as more than a renewal requirement. Each cycle is an opportunity to invest in yourself—whether it’s mastering new digital marketing strategies, exploring investment properties, or deepening your Fair Housing knowledge. By choosing wisely, you’ll stay compliant, sharpen your expertise, and strengthen your reputation in the Illinois real estate market.