Continuing Education vs. Post-Licensing:
What’s the Difference?
If you're a newly licensed real estate agent in Indiana—or even a seasoned pro—there’s a good chance you’ve heard the terms post-licensing and continuing education (CE) thrown around. They both sound like ongoing learning... but they serve very different purposes and occur at different stages in your career.
So, what’s the difference between post-licensing and continuing education, and why do they matter to your success?
Let’s break it down.👇
🆕 What Is Post-Licensing?
Post-licensing is a one-time requirement for newly licensed real estate brokers in Indiana. After passing your licensing exam and becoming an official real estate broker, you're required to complete 30 hours of post-licensing education within your first two years of licensure.
Unlike CE—which is ongoing and recurring—post-licensing is your chance to build on the foundation you laid during pre-licensing. It bridges the gap between passing the test and practicing confidently in the field.
Topics Typically Covered in Post-Licensing:
Listing and purchase agreements
Closing procedures
Negotiation skills
Buyer and seller representation
Fair housing and legal compliance
Managing transactions
If you’re just starting your journey, check out “What to Expect After You Get Your Real Estate License in Indiana” to learn more about what happens once you’re officially licensed.
🔄 What Is Continuing Education?
Once you’ve completed your post-licensing education, you enter the ongoing continuing education cycle. In Indiana, that means completing 12 hours of approved CE every year to keep your license in good standing.
Continuing education is all about staying up to date on laws, ethics, technology, marketing, and best practices—so you can grow with the industry.
Popular CE Topics Include:
Indiana license law and updates
Fair housing and discrimination laws
Social media marketing
Cybersecurity for real estate professionals
Environmental hazards and disclosures
We cover these and more in our blog post “The Top Continuing Ed Topics Every Indiana Agent Should Take”.
📅 Key Timing Differences
It’s important not to confuse the two—you can’t substitute one for the other. Post-licensing is required before you can begin the annual CE cycle. Skipping either one could result in license suspension or fines.
For more, read our detailed guide: “Indiana Real Estate Continuing Education Requirements Explained”.
🧾 Why the Distinction Matters
It’s easy to assume that education is education. But Indiana’s real estate licensing system is structured to support your career at the right stage of your development:
Post-licensing gives new brokers the tools to build confidence and competence in the early stages.
Continuing education ensures you stay knowledgeable, compliant, and competitive as the market evolves.
Still unsure where you stand? Our post “How to Stay Compliant with Indiana CE Requirements” can help you avoid costly mistakes and missed deadlines.
🏫 Where REAL University Fits In
At REAL University, we make the post-licensing and continuing education process simple, flexible, and relevant to your real-world needs.
✔️ Self-paced or in-person options
✔️ Indiana-approved curriculum
✔️ Engaging, practical instruction
✔️ Up-to-date CE topics tailored to Indiana agents
Whether you’re finishing post-licensing or fulfilling your annual CE hours, REAL University is your trusted source for high-quality real estate education.
🍷 You're Invited: CE Event at The Sycamore at Mallow Run Winery!
Want to knock out your CE hours in style?
Join us on June 26th at The Sycamore at Mallow Run Winery for an engaging Continuing Education event hosted by REAL University.
🎓 Learn from experienced instructors
🍷 Enjoy a beautiful venue and relaxed atmosphere
🤝 Network with fellow agents and grow your career
💡 Final Thoughts
As a real estate professional in Indiana, staying on top of your education isn’t just a legal requirement—it’s a career advantage. Understanding the differences between post-licensing and continuing education is key to building momentum in your first year and maintaining success for decades to come.
With support from REAL University, you’re not just checking off boxes. You’re leveling up—strategically and sustainably.
