New CPD Framework 2026 for property agents
The Council for Estate Agencies (CEA) has announced major changes to the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) framework. From 1 January 2026, the requirements will move from a credit-based system to training hours, with a stronger emphasis on structured learning and mandatory core topics. This new framework is essential for every property agent to understand, because CPD compliance remains a key condition for license renewal.
At the same time, CEA is aligning the CPD cycle with the calendar year (yeah!), making it simpler and easier for agents to track their obligations. Instead of the old “off-cycle” dates, the new cycle will run from January to December each year, in line with your RES registration validity. This is meant to reduce confusion and provide a smoother renewal process.
What has changed
Here is a side-by-side comparison of the current framework (valid until the end of 2025) and the new framework starting in 2026.
| Aspect | Existing Framework 2025 | New Framework 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Basis | Credits | Training hours |
| Total per cycle | 6 credits (~12 hours) | 16 hours |
| Breakdown | 4 Professional + 2 Generic | 4 hours Prescribed Essentials + 8 hours Professional Competencies + 4 hours Self-directed Learning |
| Cycle dates | Oct 1 - Sep 30 | 1 Jan – 31 Dec |
| Oversight | CEA accredits PC, KEOs ensure compliance | KEOs must approve Self-directed Learning and ensure compliance |
So there is additional 4 hours of learning per year, with changes to the type of learning.
- Prescribed Essentials are new learnings, such as Laws, Regulations, and Ethics, and they will be specified by CEA each year
- Self-directed Learning are Generic Competencies
New RES exemption will still be in the first cycle.
Why these changes?
The shift to training hours and the higher annual requirement are part of CEA’s broader push to raise professionalism in the industry. By introducing prescribed essential topics, agents are required to stay updated on critical areas such as anti-money laundering and compliance. At the same time, the recognition of self-directed learning gives agents more flexibility in how they develop their skills.
Aligning the CPD cycle to the calendar year is another practical change. It removes the confusion of past “split cycles” and makes it easier to remember deadlines, since the CPD cycle will now match the registration year.
What agents should do
Between now and 31 December 2025, agents must still complete the current requirement of 6 credits (4 Professional and 2 Generic). CEA advises finishing these early, before renewal activities start in October 2025, to avoid a last-minute rush.
From 1 January 2026 onwards, every agent will need to plan for 16 hours each year. This includes completing the 4 hours of Prescribed Essentials, 8 hours of Professional Competencies, and 4 hours of approved Self-directed Learning. KEOs will play a bigger role in ensuring their agents are compliant, especially in approving SDL activities.
