How to Renew Your Illinois Real Estate License as a Referral Broker: A Step-by-Step Guide

Is your Illinois real estate license about to expire? If you're a referral broker, your renewal process differs slightly from traditional brokerages. Understanding these differences is crucial to keeping your license active and continuing to earn referral commissions.

This guide walks you through the steps to renew your Illinois real estate license as a referral broker. You'll learn about deadlines, continuing education (CE) requirements, and how to submit your renewal on time. Let's dive in!

Why Referral Brokers Need to Renew Their License

Do Referral Brokers Have to Renew?

Yes! Even though referral brokers don't actively buy or sell real estate, they still hold an active license. In Illinois, license renewal is required to maintain your status and continue referring clients for commissions.

Here's the renewal schedule:

• Broker License Renewal: Every two years (April 30 of even-numbered years).

• Managing Broker Renewal: Every two years (April 30 of odd-numbered years).

What Happens If You Don't Renew?

If your license expires, you lose the ability to earn referral commissions. Reactivating an expired license can involve extra fees and additional CE requirements. Stay ahead of deadlines to avoid disruptions in your referral income!

Key Differences Between Referral Brokers and Traditional Brokers

Unlike traditional real estate agents who actively list, market, and sell properties, referral brokers operate differently:

• There is no need for MLS access or board memberships.

• No direct involvement in transactions.

• Focus solely on referring clients and earning passive income.

• Lower costs, as no association dues or marketing expenses are required.

By renewing your referral broker license, you keep access to commission opportunities while avoiding the complexities of active sales.

Step 1: Verify Your License Expiration Date

Before starting the renewal process, confirm your expiration date. Here's how:

• Visit the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) website.

• Log in to your ELicense account.

• Check your license status and renewal date.

Why This Step Matters

Many brokers forget about their renewal until it's too late. Set up reminders at least 60 days before the deadline to avoid last-minute stress.

Additionally, verifying your status allows you to ensure that no unexpected issues could delay your renewal.

Step 2: Complete Your Continuing Education (CE) Requirements

Illinois law requires CE to keep your license active even as a referral broker. The good news? You may qualify for fewer course requirements compared to active brokers.

CE Requirements for Referral Brokers

• 12 hours of CE every renewal cycle.

• Includes 4 hours of core courses and 8 hours of electives.

• Courses must be state-approved.

Managing Broker CE Requirements

• 24 total hours of CE.

• 12 hours of standard broker CE courses.

• 12 additional hours for managing brokers.

Best Ways to Complete Your CE

• Take online or live CE courses.

• Choose an approved Illinois CE provider.

• Keep your completion certificates for your records.

Referral Brokers & CE Exemptions

Some CE exemptions may apply if you work exclusively under a real estate referral brokerage. However, checking with your brokerage or IDFPR is best to confirm eligibility.

Referral brokers should check with their brokerage to ensure they meet all state and brokerage-specific requirements.

Step 3: Submit Your License Renewal Application

Once your CE courses are completed, it's time to renew your real estate license. Follow these steps:

1. Visit the IDFPR website.

2. Log in to your ELicense account.

3. Fill out the renewal application.

4. Pay the renewal fee:

   • Broker renewal fee: $150

   • Managing broker renewal fee: $200

Important Notes on Submission

• Submitting early avoids late penalties.

• Keep a copy of your payment confirmation.

• If you don't receive a renewal confirmation, follow up with IDFPR.

• Double-check that your renewal information aligns with your brokerage's records.

Step 4: Confirm Your Status as a Referral Broker

Unlike traditional brokers, referral brokers work under a real estate referral brokerage like Inland Real Estate Network (IREN). This means:

• You don't list or sell real estate.

• Your primary role is to refer clients and earn commissions.

• You don't need MLS access or traditional brokerage fees.

Switching to a Referral Brokerage

If you're still with a traditional brokerage, consider switching to IREN. Benefits include:

• No monthly MLS fees or board dues.

• Earn commissions without active real estate work.

• Maintain your license without the high costs of traditional brokerages.

Make sure your license is correctly designated under a referral brokerage. If you're not yet with IREN, now is a great time to switch and maximize your referral potential!

What If You Miss the Renewal Deadline?

If your license expires, here's what to do:

• Within 2 years: Pay a late renewal fee and complete any missing CE.

• After 2 years: You may need to retake courses or reapply for your license.

Can You Earn Referrals with an Expired License?

No. An expired license means you cannot legally collect referral commissions. Stay ahead by renewing early!

Pro Tips for a Stress-Free Renewal

1. Set Calendar Reminders

Mark your renewal deadline at least 60 days in advance to allow time for CE completion.

2. Keep CE Records Handy

Save all course completion certificates in one folder. If the IDFPR requests proof, you'll be ready.

3. Check Your Brokerage Status

Ensure your license is registered correctly in your referral brokerage, like IREN.

4. Watch for Renewal Notices

Illinois typically sends out renewal reminders via email. Check your spam folder to ensure you don't miss these updates.

Why Choose Inland Real Estate Network (IREN)?

Not all brokerages are created equal. IREN is the perfect fit if you're looking to maximize income without the hassle of active real estate sales.

Benefits of Joining IREN:

• No MLS fees, board dues, or listing responsibilities. 

• Earn referral commissions without selling homes. 

• Stay active in real estate while focusing on other careers or interests. 

• Simple renewal process with full brokerage support. 

• Enjoy the flexibility of being a referral broker while keeping your license active. 

• Trusted network and support for Illinois real estate professionals.

Ready to renew your license and start earning more from referrals? Join IREN today!

Final Thoughts

Following these steps, renewing your Illinois real estate license as a referral broker is simple. Complete your CE, submit your renewal on time, and ensure your license is appropriately registered under the Inland Real Estate Network (IREN).

Need help with CE courses or want to switch to a referral brokerage? Visit Inland Real Estate Network (IREN) and maximize your referral potential today!