Past Issues
February 2025
Question
I’ve been hearing that the California Department of Real Estate (DRE) has been increasing audits on continuing education and license renewals. What do I need to know to make sure I stay compliant and avoid any issues?
Answer
The DRE has ramped up its audits on continuing education (CE) compliance, and brokers and agents should be proactive in meeting the requirements. A key update is the addition of fair housing and implicit bias training as mandatory courses, so make sure your CE coursework includes these topics. Additionally, the DRE has been conducting random audits to verify CE completion, so it’s crucial to keep detailed records of all courses taken, including certificates of completion. License renewals are also facing increased scrutiny, particularly regarding brokerage supervision and proper documentation. To avoid delays or potential penalties, agents should complete their CE well before their renewal deadline and ensure all paperwork is properly filed. Staying ahead of these requirements will help ensure a smooth renewal process and continued compliance with DRE regulations.
August 2024
Question
When is the earliest I can renew my DRE license online or by mail?
Answer
The quickest and easiest way to renew is online. You can start the renewal process 90 days or less before your license expires. eLicensing - DRE eLicensing System
Question
When can I start taking courses to renew my license?
Answer
You may begin taking courses up to 12 months before your license expires, provided all courses are completed within the four-year period leading up to the renewal date.
Question
Do I have to take classes through C.A.R.?
Answer
No, you are not required to take classes through C.A.R. While C.A.R. offers free classes, there are many other DRE-approved vendors available that offer reasonably priced courses.
June 2024
Question
I was recently asked about the C.A.R. Industry Leader Town Halls. Can you tell me more about these meetings and how I can participate?
Answer
The C.A.R. Industry Leader Town Halls are virtual meetings held via Zoom, usually twice a month from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM. These town halls provide an excellent opportunity for brokers and key brokerage staff to engage with C.A.R. Leadership, C.A.R. staff, and brokers across the state. During these meetings, participants discuss the latest information impacting real estate brokerages and transactions. A rotating list of guest speakers provides updates on important issues, including transactional, legal, market, and legislative matters.
Industry Leader Town Halls are open to brokers, office managers, risk managers, and firm principals. As a C.A.R. member, click here to get the registration link and be added to the weekly Industry Leader newsletter.
To view the 2024 Town Hall meeting schedule on the C.A.R. website, click here.
May 2024
Question
Why is the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) so important for real estate brokers and agents in their overall success?
Answer
The Multiple Listing Service (MLS) serves as the backbone of the real estate industry, offering a centralized platform where brokers and agents can share property listings. Its value lies in its ability to enhance market efficiency and transparency. By consolidating property information in one database, the MLS enables agents to access a vast inventory of listings, expanding their reach and simplifying the search process for both buyers and sellers.
Moreover, the MLS fosters cooperation among agents, facilitating smoother transactions and ensuring that properties receive maximum exposure to potential buyers. In essence, the MLS streamlines the real estate process and drives collaboration and, ultimately, success in the industry.
April 2024
Question
Will I receive a new real estate license number if I reactivate my California Real Estate License after leaving the real estate business and not renewing it for a few years?
Answer
Typically, if you decide to reactivate your California Real Estate License after it has lapsed due to non-renewal, you would not receive a new license number. Instead, your original license number would likely be reinstated upon completing the necessary steps for reactivation, such as completing any required continuing education and paying any outstanding fees.