Illinois REALTORS® has answers to your questions about broker license renewal and what happens now that the September 30, 2020 license renewal deadline has passed.

I renewed my license through the online portal and the IDFPR website is not showing that I renewed. How do I know if it was processed? 

License renewal application processing typically takes 1-2 days, however during high volume periods it may take 3-5 days for your license renewal application to be processed and for your renewed license to appear on IDFPR’s website. If you renewed on or near the deadline, expect delays. You may periodically check IDFPR’s License Lookup until your renewed license appears.  

How can I show proof that I submitted my license renewal application if it has not been updated in License Lookup?  

To demonstrate that you have completed your required education and submitted your license renewal application, you should save records of your completed education and receipt from your online renewal. It is good practice to these records in case of an audit. You can review and print records of education you have completed using IDFPR’s CE Lookup or Illinois REALTORS® Education Lookup (for courses taken with Illinois REALTORS®).  

Where can I print a copy of my renewed license?  

Use IDFPR’s Print My License page to print a copy of your license by entering your date of birth, or your license number and the last four digits of your social security number. You may also store an electronic copy on your smartphone or tablet instead of carrying a paper license pocket card. To save an electronic copy, save it as a pdf, take a screenshot or and store it as a photo.  

Can I submit my license application and fee to meet the deadline if I have not completed my education requirements?  

No. If you submit your renewal application before completing the required education you could face a monetary penalty not to exceed $2,000.

Can I still practice real estate as a Broker after September 30, 2020 if I have not completed my education or submitted the license renewal application and fee? 

No. Contact the Illinois Department of Financial & Professional Regulation to learn your options: IDFPR 1-800-560-6420 or [email protected]. 

What is the penalty for renewing late? 

The late renewal fee is $50, increasing your renewal fee from $150 to $200. 

I was required to take Post– License courses for my first license renewal and I took CE courses instead.  What should I do? 

If you have already renewed, it would be best to notify the IDFPR and take the required post–license course work as soon as possible. It is likely that the Department will catch this in the audit, and you may still be fined up to $25 per credit hour, but if you notify the Department in advance you may avoid additional penalties. Unfortunately, the CE you have completed will not count for your next renewal cycle.  

Contact an Education Specialist

If you have questions about broker license renewal, you can ask an Illinois REALTORS® Education Specialist, Monday-Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. by phone, email or online chat.