Maine Real Estate Agent / Broker Continuing Education Requirements
Requirements Overview
The Maine Real Estate Commission requires 21 hours of continuing education per biennial renewal for all license types: associate brokers, brokers, and designated brokers. The mandatory component is a 3-hour core course with topics designated by the Commission that change every two years. New core courses are offered at least 6 months before they become mandatory. The remaining 18 hours are electives from Commission-approved providers.
Maine is unique in that it does not have a salesperson license. All real estate professionals are licensed as brokers, with associate broker being the entry-level tier. Despite the different titles, all license types share the same 21-hour CE requirement.
The Commission ceased maintaining CE records as of January 1, 2002, so licensees bear full responsibility for tracking their own completion. Certificates should be retained for at least 4 years, as random audits are conducted. When renewing, licensees attest under penalty that all hours have been genuinely completed. A 90-day late renewal period is available after expiration with a $50 late fee.
Mandatory Topics
| Topic | Hours | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reasonable Care and Diligence Core Course | 3 | Every renewal | Effective April 1, 2025. Core course topics change every two years as designated by the Commission. |
Renewal Pathways
How You Can Complete Your CE
Provider Requirements
Courses must be approved by the Maine Real Estate Commission. Searchable course and provider databases available on the Commission website. Distance education courses require 85% passing score on final exam.
Tips for Maine Real Estate Agents
- Retain all CE certificates for at least 4 years — Maine conducts random audits and the Commission does not maintain CE records for you.
- Distance education courses require an 85% passing score, which is higher than many other states — review the material thoroughly before the final exam.
- Complete the 3-hour core course early each cycle; topics change every two years and new courses are available 6 months before they become required.
- If you miss the renewal deadline, you have a 90-day late window with a $50 fee — but do not practice on a lapsed license during this period.