TREC CE Requirements 2026: What Texas Real Estate Agents Need to Know
What’s New for 2026
Broker Responsibility Is Now Mandatory for ALL Brokers
As of January 1, 2026, every renewing broker must complete the Broker Responsibility course – regardless of whether they are sponsoring agents. Previously, this was only required for brokers who sponsor. If you’re a broker, this is an additional requirement on top of your 18 hours of CE.
TREA’s Broker Responsibility course is available online for $45 with interactive quizzes and textbook format.
2026-2027 Legal Updates Released
TREC has released new versions of Legal Update I and Legal Update II for the 2026-2027 cycle. These cover the latest legislative changes, updated contract forms, and new enforcement priorities. The 2024-2025 versions no longer satisfy the requirement – you must take the current cycle’s courses.
TREA’s Legal Updates were updated as of March 12, 2026, and are available in both online and classroom formats.
October 1 Inactive License Deadline
Starting October 1, expired licenses are immediately set to inactive and all broker affiliations are terminated. This is not a soft deadline – if your license expires without completed CE, you cannot legally practice real estate until you complete your requirements and renew. Late fees and additional reinstatement requirements may apply.
The Standard 18-Hour CE Requirement (Unchanged)
The core CE structure remains the same as previous cycles:
| Category | Hours | Status for 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Legal Update I (2026-2027) | 4 hours | Mandatory – new version released |
| Legal Update II (2026-2027) | 4 hours | Mandatory – new version released |
| Contract courses | 3 hours | Mandatory – unchanged |
| Electives | 7 hours | Your choice from TREC-approved courses |
| Total | 18 hours | Required every 2 years |
Who Needs CE in 2026?
Every active Texas real estate sales agent and broker whose license renewal falls within this cycle. This includes:
- Sales agents – 18 hours of CE (Legal Updates + contracts + electives)
- Brokers who sponsor agents – 18 hours of CE + Broker Responsibility course
- Brokers who do NOT sponsor agents – 18 hours of CE + Broker Responsibility course (new for 2026)
- First-time renewals – same 18-hour requirement, no exemption for new licensees
How to Check Your CE Status
Before you start enrolling in courses, check what you’ve already completed:
- Check your TREC transcript – log into your TREC account to see which CE hours are already posted
- Note your renewal date – this is the deadline for completing all 18 hours
- Use TREA’s CEU Calculator – TREA’s calculator looks up your license in real time, checks your transcripts, and recommends a customized course bundle with discounts up to 70%
What’s the Most Efficient Way to Complete CE in 2026?
If you want to get your entire renewal done in one purchase, a CE bundle is the fastest path. At Texas Real Estate Academy (TREA):
- Hall Pass ($75) – Complete 18-hour renewal: Legal Update I & II, 3 hours contract CE, 9 hours electives
- Dean’s List ($85) – Every course TREA offers, 25+ hours
- Lunch Money ($48) – 11 hours: Legal Updates + two free electives (if you have some hours already)
All TREA courses are available online (self-paced, any device, studio-quality video) and at the Fort Worth classroom (4528 W Vickery Blvd #100). TREC credits post in approximately 3 seconds, 24/7.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do extra CE hours carry over to the next cycle?
No. Extra hours completed in this cycle do not reduce your requirement for the next cycle. Each renewal period starts fresh at 18 hours.
Can I start my CE before my current cycle’s renewal date?
Yes. You can begin taking courses for your next renewal as soon as the new Legal Update versions are released. The 2026-2027 Legal Updates are available now.
What if I completed CE hours with a provider that went out of business?
As long as the hours were posted to TREC before the provider closed, they count. Check your TREC transcript to verify.
Is the CE requirement different for inactive license holders?
Inactive license holders still need to complete CE to return to active status. The specific requirements depend on how long the license has been inactive. Contact TREC directly for your situation.
Get Ahead of Your 2026 CE
Don’t wait for the October 1 deadline. Complete your 18 hours now with TREA’s studio-quality online courses. Instant TREC posting. No-questions-asked refund guarantee.
Start Your CE Today