Looking for quick answers about Tennessee real estate continuing education and license renewal? This FAQ covers CE hour requirements, deadlines, online options, post-licensing rules, and more—all in one place.
For a full guide, check out the 2025 Tennessee CE & License Renewal Guide.
1️⃣ CE Requirements & Basics for Tennessee Real Estate Licensees
What is real estate continuing education in Tennessee?
Real estate continuing education (CE) in Tennessee refers to the required coursework that licensees must complete every two years to maintain an active license. Empire Learning offers TREC-approved CE courses that help real estate professionals stay current on legal changes, industry standards, and best practices across the state.
How many CE hours do I need to renew my real estate license in Tennessee?
Tennessee real estate professionals must complete 16 hours of continuing education during every two-year license renewal cycle. Empire Learning offers a complete 16-hour CE package that includes the mandatory 6-hour TREC Core Course and 10 hours of TREC-approved electives designed to help agents and brokers meet all renewal requirements.
How many CE hours are required to renew a Tennessee real estate license?
To renew a Tennessee real estate license, you must complete 16 total hours of CE. Empire Learning makes it easy by offering bundled CE packages that include both the required 6-hour TREC Core Course and 10 elective hours. All courses are fully approved by the Tennessee Real Estate Commission (TREC).
What are the mandatory CE courses for real estate agents in Tennessee?
Of the 16 required CE hours in Tennessee, 6 must be completed through the TREC Core Course. Empire Learning includes the latest Core Course in every Tennessee CE package to help licensees stay compliant with TREC regulations while also offering a wide range of electives to round out the requirement.
Do brokers in Tennessee have different CE requirements?
No, brokers in Tennessee have the same continuing education requirements as affiliate brokers—16 hours every two years, including the 6-hour TREC Core Course. Empire Learning course packages are designed to meet the needs of both brokers and affiliate brokers, with all courses reported directly to CE Broker.
What are the CE requirements for affiliate brokers in Tennessee?
Affiliate brokers in Tennessee must complete 16 hours of CE every two years. This includes 6 hours through the mandatory TREC Core Course and 10 hours of elective credit. Empire Learning offers convenient, mobile-friendly CE options that meet all TREC requirements and support affiliate brokers with flexible learning tools.
What are the CE requirements for brokers in Tennessee?
Tennessee brokers are required to complete 16 hours of CE every renewal cycle—6 hours must come from the TREC Core Course, and 10 from electives. Newly licensed brokers must also complete a 120-hour post-licensing education requirement. Empire Learning offers both CE and post-license education packages for Tennessee brokers.
Can I take my Tennessee real estate continuing education online?
Yes! Tennessee licensees are allowed to complete all 16 hours of CE online. Empire Learning offers fully online, self-paced courses that are approved by TREC. You can complete your CE from any device and on your own schedule, with progress saved automatically between sessions for maximum flexibility.
Are in-person CE classes required in Tennessee?
No, in-person CE classes are not required to renew a Tennessee real estate license. Empire Learning provides online CE courses that are fully approved by TREC and offer the flexibility to study anytime, anywhere—perfect for busy professionals who prefer the convenience of mobile or desktop learning.
What is the TREC Core Course, and is it required for renewal?
The TREC Core Course is a 6-hour mandatory course covering Tennessee real estate laws, legal updates, and regulatory practices. It must be completed during every renewal cycle. Empire Learning includes the 2025–2026 Core Course in its Tennessee CE packages to ensure full compliance with TREC licensing rules.
2️⃣ License Renewal Process in Tennessee
How do I renew my real estate license in Tennessee?
To renew your Tennessee real estate license, complete 16 hours of continuing education—including the mandatory TREC Core Course—and submit your renewal application and fees online. Empire Learning offers a complete CE package to help you meet state requirements and renew on time through the TN CORE online licensing system.
How do I renew my RETIRED Tennessee real estate license online?
Retired licensees in Tennessee are not required to complete continuing education. To renew, simply log in to the TN CORE online licensing system, submit your renewal application, and pay the required fees. For active licenses, Empire Learning offers a full library of CE courses to meet renewal requirements.
Where do I renew my Tennessee real estate license online?
All Tennessee real estate license renewals are completed through the TN CORE online licensing system. You'll need to log in with your license credentials to upload your CE hours and pay the renewal fee. Empire Learning reports CE completions directly to CE Broker for a seamless process.
When is my Tennessee real estate license renewal due?
Your Tennessee real estate license is due every two years on the anniversary of your original license issue date. You must renew by midnight on that date to stay compliant. Empire Learning helps licensees track their CE hours to ensure on-time renewal.
Can I renew my Tennessee real estate license after it expires?
Yes, but only within 60 days of expiration. This grace period allows you to complete any missing CE and pay late fees. You cannot legally practice real estate during this period. Empire Learning offers flexible online CE courses to help you catch up quickly.
What happens if my real estate license expires in Tennessee?
If your license expires, you must stop practicing immediately. Within the first 60 days, you can renew by completing your CE and paying a late fee. After that, you'll need to request reinstatement through TREC. Empire Learning provides fast, self-paced CE for expired licensees.
Do I need to retake the licensing exam if my license expires in Tennessee?
You may need to retake the licensing exam if your license has been expired beyond TREC’s reinstatement period. For licenses lapsed over one year, reapplication may be required. Always check with TREC. To avoid this, stay current with CE using Empire Learning.
How do I reinstate a lapsed real estate license in Tennessee?
To reinstate a Tennessee real estate license expired less than 60 days, complete your CE, pay late fees, and apply through TN CORE. If expired over 60 days but under a year, request reinstatement through your account. After one year, reapplication and retesting are required. Empire Learning can help fulfill any CE needed for reinstatement.
What happens if I don't complete my CE requirements on time in Tennessee?
If you don’t complete CE on time, your license cannot be renewed and may be marked inactive. You’ll need to finish your CE and pay late fees before reinstating your license. Empire Learning helps agents quickly complete missing hours with self-paced online courses.
Can I renew my license after it has expired in Tennessee?
Yes, you can renew within 60 days of expiration by submitting your CE and paying a late fee. After 60 days, you’ll need to go through TREC’s reinstatement process. Empire Learning offers fast, TREC-approved CE to help you meet reinstatement requirements.
3️⃣ Post-Licensing Education (Affiliate Brokers & Brokers)
Is there a post-licensing education requirement for new affiliate brokers in Tennessee?
No, Tennessee affiliate brokers are not required to complete post-licensing education. However, they must complete 16 hours of CE every two years, including the 6-hour TREC Core Course, to renew their license. Empire Learning offers CE packages designed to keep affiliate brokers in full compliance with TREC rules.
What is the post-licensing education requirement for new brokers in Tennessee?
New Tennessee brokers must complete 120 hours of Commission-approved post-licensing education within three years of receiving their broker license. This post-licensing requirement is separate from the 16 hours of CE needed for regular renewal. Empire Learning offers both CE and post-licensing courses for Tennessee real estate brokers.
What happens if a broker doesn't complete the 120-hour post-licensing education on time in Tennessee?
If a broker does not complete the 120-hour requirement within three years, TREC allows a fourth year to make up the hours—but charges a $50 monthly penalty during that time. If not completed by the end of year four, the broker must either downgrade their license or reapply and retest. Empire Learning can help meet the requirement quickly.
Do brokers licensed after January 1, 2001, have additional education requirements in Tennessee?
Yes. Any broker licensed on or after January 1, 2001, must complete 120 hours of post-licensing education within three years. During this three-year window, CE for license renewal is not required. Empire Learning offers post-license options to help brokers stay compliant with TREC regulations.
4️⃣ Deadlines, Compliance & Penalties in Tennessee
What are the CE completion deadlines in Tennessee?
Tennessee real estate licensees must complete all 16 hours of continuing education before their license expiration date—two years from the original issue date. Completing CE well before the deadline helps avoid delays, late fees, or renewal issues. Empire Learning helps you track and finish your hours on time.
Does Tennessee offer a grace period for CE or license renewal?
No, Tennessee does not provide a grace period for CE or license renewal. If your license expires, you are no longer legally authorized to practice real estate. Empire Learning makes it easy to complete your CE early and avoid the risk of missing your renewal window.
What are the late renewal penalties in Tennessee?
If your license is renewed late, Tennessee charges a $50 penalty for every 30-day period after the expiration date. After 60 days, you may need to take additional steps to reinstate your license. Empire Learning offers quick, online CE options to help avoid penalties.
Are there penalties for late renewal in Tennessee?
Yes. Practicing real estate with an expired license violates TREC regulations and may lead to disciplinary action. You’ll also face late renewal fees and possible administrative delays. Empire Learning can help you complete CE requirements fast so you don’t fall out of compliance.
Can Tennessee audit my CE completion?
Yes, the Tennessee Real Estate Commission (TREC) can audit your continuing education records at any time. Licensees are expected to maintain accurate records. Empire Learning provides downloadable course completion certificates for your records in case of an audit.
How do I prove I completed my CE for Tennessee license renewal?
CE providers are required to report your completed hours to CE Broker, Tennessee’s compliance tracking system. However, you should still keep copies of your course completion certificates. Empire Learning reports your hours automatically and lets you download your certificates anytime.
How do I check if my CE hours have been reported in Tennessee?
To verify your CE hours, create a free account at CE Broker and log in to view your reported courses. This ensures your hours are submitted before renewal. Empire Learning reports CE completions directly to CE Broker on your behalf.
How long should I keep my CE certificates in Tennessee?
Tennessee real estate professionals must keep their CE certificates for at least 5 years. Even though providers report hours to CE Broker, you are responsible for maintaining your own records. Empire Learning gives you unlimited access to your certificate downloads for safekeeping.
5️⃣ CE Course Options & Formats in Tennessee
What are the best real estate CE courses in Tennessee?
All real estate CE courses in Tennessee must be approved by the Tennessee Real Estate Commission (TREC). The best courses are from providers who offer elective courses that support your professional needs. Empire Learning offers complete 16-hour CE package options, including the mandatory TREC Core course and various electives to suit your professional needs.
How much does real estate CE cost in Tennessee?
Costs vary by provider, and 16-hour CE packages range from low to high cost. Empire Learning offers competitive pricing and even includes a free 4-hour elective course to help you get started at no cost. For information to help you choose a continuing education provider, click here.
Are online CE courses better than in-person classes in Tennessee?
Online CE courses are often more convenient for busy real estate professionals. They are self-paced, accessible from any device, and approved by TREC. While in-person classes are still available, many licensees prefer the flexibility of completing CE online. Empire Learning offers competitive pricing and even includes a free 4-hour elective course to help you get started at no cost.
How long does it take to complete CE online in Tennessee?
You can complete your CE at your own pace. Empire Learning’s platform allows you to log in and out as needed, and progress is saved automatically. Most learners complete their 16 hours over several days or weeks, but it can be done in a single weekend with focus and planning. Empire Learning offers competitive pricing and even includes a free 4-hour elective course to help you get started at no cost.
Do I need to take a proctored CE exam in Tennessee?
No, Tennessee does not require proctored exams for CE courses under 8 hours in length. Empire Learning’s courses do not require final exams. Per TREC rules, only CE courses over 8 hours long require a passing exam score of 70%. Empire Learning offers competitive pricing and even includes a free 4-hour elective course to help you get started at no cost.
What happens if I fail my CE course in Tennessee?
If you fail a course that includes a final exam (required only if over 8 hours in length), you will typically be allowed to retake it. Most providers—including Empire Learning—allow multiple attempts to pass the exam. Empire Learning offers competitive pricing and even includes a free 4-hour elective course to help you get started at no cost.
Can I pause and resume my online CE courses in Tennessee?
Yes! Online CE platforms like Empire Learning are built to be user-friendly and flexible. You can start and stop your courses at any time and resume right where you left off.
Can I complete my CE requirements in one day in Tennessee?
Yes, you can complete all 16 hours in one day if you have the time and focus. However, many licensees prefer spreading the coursework over several days for better retention and convenience. Empire Learning offers competitive pricing and even includes a free 4-hour elective course to help you get started at no cost.
Can I take CE courses on my phone or tablet in Tennessee?
Absolutely. Empire Learning courses are optimized for mobile, tablet, and desktop devices—allowing you to complete your CE wherever and whenever it suits your schedule.
6️⃣ Course Providers & Approvals in Tennessee
How do I verify if a CE course is approved in Tennessee?
To verify if a continuing education course is approved in Tennessee, visit the TREC's Courses page on their website. Empire Learning is a highly rated TREC-approved provider in Tennessee.
How do I know if a CE provider is approved in Tennessee?
You can check if a provider is approved by searching the Tennessee Real Estate Commission (TREC) website. Empire Learning is an approved provider in Tennessee and reports directly to CE Broker.
Are out-of-state CE providers accepted in Tennessee?
Out-of-state providers are accepted only if they are specifically approved by the Tennessee Real Estate Commission. Not all national course providers qualify, so always verify approval through TREC or CE Broker before enrolling. Empire Learning is TREC-approved and offers competitive pricing - check out the free 4-hour elective course to help you get started at no cost.
Does Empire Learning offer approved CE courses in Tennessee?
Yes, Empire Learning is a fully approved CE provider in Tennessee. We offer complete 16-hour renewal packages that include the mandatory 6-hour TREC Core course and a variety of elective topics. All courses are reported directly to CE Broker to ensure compliance with TREC requirements. View our catalog of courses here.
Do I need to take CE in Tennessee if I have a license in another state?
Yes, if you hold an active Tennessee real estate license, you must meet the Tennessee continuing education requirements regardless of whether you're also licensed in another state. CE reciprocity does not typically apply for renewal, so be sure to complete TREC-approved courses to stay in good standing. Empire Learning is TREC-approved and offers competitive pricing - check out the free 4-hour elective course to help you get started at no cost.
7️⃣ Career Growth & Advanced CE in Tennessee
Are there CE courses for brokers or broker upgrades in Tennessee?
Yes, Tennessee brokers must complete the same 16-hour CE requirement as affiliate brokers, which includes the 6-hour TREC Core course. For newly licensed brokers, there is also a 120-hour post-licensing education requirement. While there are no specific CE courses labeled “broker upgrade,” brokers can select electives that focus on topics such as real estate law, ethics, negotiation, and brokerage management to support their leadership role. Empire Learning offers both 16-hour and 120-hour packages for all licensees in Tennessee.
What CE courses are recommended for new real estate agents in Tennessee?
New agents often benefit from CE courses that cover foundational skills like client communication, contract writing, ethics, and fair housing. In Tennessee, you can choose from a variety of electives that are practical and relevant to newer licensees. Empire Learning offers customizable course packages to match the learning needs of agents at every stage of their career.
Are there CE courses for real estate investors in Tennessee?
Yes. While Tennessee does not require that CE courses are specific to investing, many electives cover investment-related topics such as property management, commercial real estate, and real estate finance. Empire Learning investment courses can be excellent choices for licensees looking to work with investor clients or build their own real estate investment portfolio.
Does CE help grow my real estate business in Tennessee?
Absolutely. Continuing education in Tennessee not only helps you maintain compliance with TREC, but also gives you the tools to grow your business. Courses in marketing, business planning, negotiation strategies, and legal updates can all provide real-world insights and skills that benefit your bottom line. Empire Learning offers customizable course packages to match the learning needs of agents at every stage of their career.
Are digital marketing or social media CE courses accepted in Tennessee?
Yes, as long as the courses are TREC-approved. Digital marketing and social media topics are often included in elective CE options. These courses are especially helpful for modern real estate professionals looking to enhance their online presence and attract more leads. Empire Learning offers several marketing-focused electives that are fully approved in Tennessee.
8️⃣ Free & Discounted CE in Tennessee
Are there free real estate CE courses in Tennessee?
Yes! Tennessee real estate licensees can access free CE opportunities. Empire Learning offers a FREE 4-hour elective CE course that is fully approved by the Tennessee Real Estate Commission (TREC). This course allows you to get started without any upfront cost, and it counts toward your required 16 hours for renewal.
Can I get promotional offers on CE courses in Tennessee?
Many providers periodically offer discounts and promotional deals on CE course packages. These promotions can include bundle pricing, seasonal discounts, or coupon codes. Be sure to check the Empire Learning free course offer and sign up for email updates to catch all of the latest offers.
Does Empire Learning offer free CE courses in Tennessee?
Yes. Empire Learning offers a free 4-hour elective CE course for Tennessee licensees. It’s a no-strings-attached way to try the platform and make progress toward your renewal requirements. No payment or credit card is needed to enroll—just sign up and start learning!
Need Help or Have Questions?
If you have questions about your Tennessee real estate license, CE requirements, or renewal process that we didn’t cover here, the best resource is the Tennessee Real Estate Commission (TREC).
Visit the TREC official website.
You can also reach them directly by phone at (615) 741-2241.
To manage or renew your license online, use the TN CORE online licensing system.
To view or verify your education records, create an account with CE Broker.
Staying informed and proactive will help ensure a smooth renewal experience and continued success in your Tennessee real estate career!