In most states, what generally happens to a license if a licensee fails to complete required continuing education before renewal?

Most states condition license renewal on completing a set number of continuing-education hours within the renewal period, often including required topics such as ethics, fair housing, or law updates. If the licensee does not complete the required education, the state generally will not renew the license, and continuing to practice real estate on a lapsed or expired license is a violation that can bring discipline. Exact hour requirements, topics, and renewal cycles vary by state, so a licensee must know their own state's rules. Because the specifics differ, exam questions on the state portion focus on the general principle that renewal depends on meeting education and other requirements on time.