New Illinois Broker CE Requirements for 2026: Here's What You Need to Know

If you're an Illinois real estate broker, there's a big change on the horizon for your continuing education (CE) requirements. Whether you're renewing your license or advising others in your office, it's important to stay up to date—and we're here to walk you through it all.

At AceableAgent, our mission is to help you grow your career without the stress. So, let’s break it down together.

What's Changing for 2026?

The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) has updated the CE requirements for the April 30, 2026 license renewal cycle. Here’s what you need to know, based on when your license was issued:

If You Were Licensed BEFORE November 1, 2023:

You’ll need to complete 12 hours of CE, which includes:

• 6-hour Core Course (now includes 2 hours of Fair Housing!)

• 6 hours of Electives (must include Sexual Harassment Prevention Training)

Note: If you completed a 4-hour Core course before June 30, 2025, it still counts—but you'll need 8 elective hours instead of 6.

If You Were Licensed BETWEEN November 1, 2023 and October 31, 2025:

You’ll need to complete the 45-hour Post-License Education by April 30, 2026. This covers everything you need as a newly licensed broker.

Completing your post-licensing early doesn’t just check off a requirement—it also gives you more autonomy and flexibility in your practice. The sooner you finish, the sooner you can fully focus on growing your business, serving your clients, and building confidence in your new role.

Until you meet this IDFPR requirement, your designated managing broker must oversee critical aspects of your role, including:

• Handling earnest money transactions

• Leading contract negotiations

• Giving the green light to all your advertising endeavors

Getting this done early means gaining more independence and momentum in your real estate journey.

If You Were Licensed ON or AFTER November 1, 2025:

You won’t need to renew your license until April 30, 2028, but be prepared to complete the 45-hour Post-License Education by that date.

How Is This Different from the Past?

Previously, brokers only needed 4 hours of Core CE and 8 hours of Electives, including 1 hour of Sexual Harassment Prevention. For 2026, the Core requirement is longer (6 hours) and now includes Fair Housing. Electives are slightly reduced to 6 hours, but must still include that important SHP component.

In short: More relevant content, clearer guidance, and a focus on important topics like Fair Housing and workplace safety.

Common Complaints About CE—and How We Fix Them

We’ve heard it all from brokers over the years:

• CE can feel time-consuming and hard to fit into a busy schedule.

• Some courses feel boring or outdated, with little connection to real-world practice.

• Requirements can be confusing, especially when they change.

• It’s frustrating when platforms are hard to navigate or not mobile-friendly.

At AceableAgent, we listened—and we’re changing the game.

You can now complete your CE in two flexible ways:

Option 1: Self-Paced Courses

Go at your own speed, on your schedule. Our mobile-friendly platform makes it easy to learn from anywhere—whether you're at home or between showings.

Option 2: Live Virtual Classroom

Need structure or want to check CE off your list quickly? Join our virtual classroom sessions and finish your CE in as little as 2 days! Same great content, delivered live by engaging instructors.

Explore both options here: AceableAgent Illinois Broker CE

Note: If you’re a licensed REALTOR®, completing your CE with AceableAgent will also satisfy NAR’s (National Association of REALTORS®) triennial Code of Ethics requirement—eliminating the need for extra coursework down the road.

AceableAgent Is With You Every Step of the Way

We know CE can feel overwhelming, especially with changing rules. But don’t worry, our team has your back. We offer IDFPR-approved courses that are easy to access, mobile-friendly, and designed to help you succeed on your schedule.

Whether you need the full 45-hour Post-License bundle or just want to knock out those updated Core and Elective hours, we’ve got what you need.

Have questions? Need a course recommendation? Just reach out (855-637-1886). We're not just a CE provider, we're your partner in professional growth.

Let’s keep your license active and your career moving. You’ve got this, and we’re right here with you.