Key Takeaways
- Massachusetts licenses expire every 2 years on a staggered schedule
- Continuing education of 12 hours is required every 2-year renewal cycle
- The Board can impose fines up to \$1,000 per violation
- License revocation requires a formal hearing with appeal rights
- Practicing without a license is a criminal offense in Massachusetts
Last updated: January 2026
License Renewal & Disciplinary Actions
Maintaining a valid license requires timely renewal and adherence to professional standards.
License Renewal
Renewal Cycle
| Detail | Specification |
|---|---|
| License term | 2 years |
| CE requirement | 12 hours |
| Renewal fee | $150 |
| Late renewal | Additional fees apply |
Continuing Education Requirements
| Component | Hours |
|---|---|
| Core/Required | Varies by cycle |
| Electives | Varies by cycle |
| Total | 12 hours |
Renewal Process
- Complete 12 hours CE before expiration
- Submit renewal application online or by mail
- Pay renewal fee ($150)
- Receive renewed license
Late Renewal
| Timeframe | Consequence |
|---|---|
| 0-30 days late | Late fee applies |
| 31-90 days late | Higher late fee |
| Over 90 days | May need to reapply |
Inactive License
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Request | Can request inactive status |
| CE | Not required while inactive |
| Renewal | Still required |
| Reactivation | CE may be required |
| Activities | Cannot practice |
Grounds for Discipline
Violations
| Violation | Description |
|---|---|
| Misrepresentation | False statements to clients |
| Fraud | Intentional deception |
| Commingling | Mixing client and personal funds |
| Negligence | Failure to perform duties |
| Unlicensed activity | Acting without valid license |
| Conviction | Certain crimes |
Additional Grounds
| Violation | Description |
|---|---|
| Failure to account | Not providing statements |
| False advertising | Misleading claims |
| Dual agency without consent | Undisclosed conflicts |
| Discrimination | Fair housing violations |
| Failure to supervise | Broker responsibility |
Disciplinary Penalties
Available Sanctions
| Penalty | Description |
|---|---|
| Letter of reprimand | Formal warning |
| Fine | Up to $1,000 per violation |
| Probation | Supervised practice |
| Suspension | Temporary license removal |
| Revocation | Permanent license removal |
Disciplinary Process
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Complaint | Filed with Board |
| 2. Investigation | Board investigates |
| 3. Charges | Formal charges if warranted |
| 4. Hearing | Administrative hearing |
| 5. Decision | Board issues ruling |
| 6. Appeal | Right to court appeal |
Unlicensed Practice
Criminal Penalties
| Offense | Penalty |
|---|---|
| First offense | Fine up to $500 |
| Subsequent | Fine and/or imprisonment |
| Fraud involved | Enhanced penalties |
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Test Your Knowledge
How many hours of continuing education are required for license renewal in Massachusetts?
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Test Your Knowledge
What is the maximum fine the Massachusetts Board can impose per violation?
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