We get a lot of questions from board members and managers about what courses are required under Florida’s updated HOA laws. It’s no surprise; requirements have changed, and some of the details are still being sorted out.
This post is here to clarify what’s currently known and what board members should do to stay compliant.
If you were elected or appointed to your HOA board before July 1, 2024, you now have four years from your election date to complete a Board Member Certification (BMC) course, provided you remain on the board continuously during that time.
If you’re elected or appointed on or after July 1, 2024, you must complete the BMC within 90 days of taking office.
In addition to the initial certification, board members must complete annual continuing education:
What’s not entirely clear yet is whether board members can retake the same BMC course every four years to meet this requirement, or whether new/different courses will be required going forward. The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) is expected to provide more clarity as it continues the rulemaking process.
DHN Attorneys no longer offers board certification courses. We made this decision because of the frequency, accessibility, and quality of the DBPR’s own offerings, which are available online, for free, and multiple times each month. They're easy to sign up for and can be completed from home, which is ideal for busy board members.
To find upcoming DBPR-approved courses, visit the DBPR CTMH Education Calendar.
Once you complete a course, make sure your association keeps a copy of your certificate of completion for five years, as required by statute. If you do opt to take the DBPR's online offering, you will receive your certificate shortly after completion of the course via email.
Still have questions about board service or legal obligations under the new law? Reach out! DHN Attorneys' HOA and Real Estate Lawyers are happy to help you navigate the gray areas.
