Sales Apprentice Education (SAE) is a required set of post-licensing courses for Texas real estate license holders renewing for the first time. These 98 hours of approved education must be completed before your first license renewal. SAE helps new agents build a strong foundation in real estate practices, legal updates, and contract knowledge—ensuring you're better equipped to serve clients and succeed in your career. Completing SAE on time is essential to maintain your active license status. All renewals are processed through the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC).
SAE Requirements for First Renewal:
- Complete 90 hours of post-licensing education by the expiration of the initial licensing period (end of first 2 years)
- Complete 4 hours of TREC Legal Update I
- Complete 4 hours of TREC Legal Update II
- Agents who have been made supervisors by their broker must also complete the 6-hour Broker Responsibility Course
Click here to learn more from the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC).
GFWAR offers two designation courses that will meet the 90 hours of Qualifying/SAE required for renewal:
- Graduate, REALTOR® Institute (GRI)
- Texas Accredited Commercial Specialist (TACS)
The GRI (Graduate, REALTOR® Institute) designation is a nationally recognized credential that signifies in-depth knowledge in legal, marketing, and business aspects of real estate. Earning the GRI helps REALTORS® build a solid foundation for success and better serve their clients. The designation consists of 3 courses that each provide 30 hours of SAE credit, 90 hours total. These are:
- GRI: Contracts to Closing
- GRI: Business Skills/Marketing
- GRI: Real Estate Brokerage
The Texas Accredited Commercial Specialist (TACS) is a professional designation for Texas REALTORS® that provides specialized training in commercial real estate. Earning the TACS designation demonstrates expertise in commercial transactions, property analysis, and market knowledge, helping agents better serve clients in the commercial sector. The designation consists of 3 courses that each provide 30 hours of SAE credit, 90 hours total. These are:
- TACS 1: Introduction to Commercial Real Estate
- TACS 2: Commercial Real Estate Property Development
- TACS 3: Commercial Real Estate Marketing & Negotiation
Visit our course calendar or email academy@gfwar.org for more information.