How to Get a Real Estate License in Virginia

Obtaining a real estate license in Virginia is a strategic career move for individuals seeking financial independence, flexible work hours, and the opportunity to build long-term relationships within their communities. As one of the most dynamic housing markets on the East Coast, Virginia offers robust demand for licensed real estate professionals—from bustling urban centers like Arlington and Alexandria to growing suburban hubs like Fredericksburg and Richmond. Whether you’re a recent graduate, a career changer, or someone looking to supplement your income, earning your real estate license opens doors to a rewarding profession grounded in trust, negotiation, and market expertise.

The process of becoming a licensed real estate agent in Virginia is structured, regulated, and designed to ensure that only qualified individuals represent buyers and sellers. While the path requires commitment, it is neither overly complex nor unattainable. With the right preparation, understanding of state requirements, and access to quality resources, you can navigate the licensing journey efficiently and confidently. This comprehensive guide walks you through every step—from pre-licensing education to exam registration and beyond—equipping you with the knowledge and tools to succeed in Virginia’s competitive real estate landscape.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Meet the Basic Eligibility Requirements

Before beginning any formal training, you must confirm that you meet Virginia’s minimum qualifications to apply for a real estate license. These are non-negotiable and enforced by the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR). To be eligible, you must:

• Be at least 18 years of age
• Have a high school diploma or equivalent (GED)
• Be of good moral character, with no disqualifying criminal history
• Be legally authorized to work in the United States

While a criminal record does not automatically disqualify you, certain offenses—particularly those involving fraud, theft, or dishonesty—may trigger a review by DPOR. If you have a prior conviction, it is strongly advised to submit a Pre-License Criminal History Review request before investing time and money into coursework. This proactive step can prevent wasted effort and clarify your eligibility early in the process.

Step 2: Complete 60 Hours of Approved Pre-Licensing Education

Virginia law mandates that all applicants complete 60 hours of state-approved pre-licensing education before sitting for the licensing exam. This coursework is designed to provide foundational knowledge in real estate principles, practices, Virginia-specific laws, contracts, ethics, and property management.

The curriculum is divided into two core components:

1. Principles of Real Estate (30 hours) – Covers national real estate concepts including agency relationships, property rights, financing, market analysis, and the role of the real estate professional.
2. Virginia Real Estate Practice (30 hours) – Focuses exclusively on Virginia statutes, regulations, disclosure requirements, licensing rules, and local market practices.

These courses must be completed through a DPOR-approved education provider. You can find a current list of approved schools on the DPOR website. Options include in-person classroom instruction, live online sessions, and self-paced online programs. Each format has advantages:

• In-person classes offer direct interaction with instructors and peers, ideal for learners who benefit from structure and immediate feedback.
• Live online courses provide flexibility while maintaining real-time engagement with instructors.
• Self-paced online courses allow you to study on your own schedule, making them popular among working professionals and parents.

Regardless of format, ensure the provider is accredited by DPOR and offers a certificate of completion upon successful course finish. You will need this certificate to apply for the licensing exam. Most providers require a passing score of at least 70% on final exams for each module.

Step 3: Schedule and Pass the Virginia Real Estate Salesperson Exam

Once you’ve completed your 60 hours of education, you’re eligible to register for the Virginia Real Estate Salesperson Licensing Exam. This exam is administered by PSI, the state’s designated testing vendor.

The exam consists of two parts:

1. National Portion (80 questions) – Tests general real estate knowledge applicable across the U.S., including contracts, agency, property ownership, valuation, and financing.
2. State Portion (40 questions) – Focuses exclusively on Virginia laws and regulations, including licensing procedures, disclosure obligations, fair housing, and commission structures.

You must achieve a minimum score of 70% on each section to pass. The entire exam lasts up to four hours and is administered via computer at designated testing centers throughout Virginia. Common locations include Richmond, Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Roanoke, and Fairfax.

To register:

1. Visit the PSI website: psiexams.com
2. Create an account and select “Virginia Real Estate Salesperson”
3. Upload your course completion certificate
4. Pay the $60 exam fee
5. Select a date and location

It’s recommended to schedule your exam within 6–8 weeks of completing your coursework while the material is still fresh. PSI allows you to reschedule up to 24 hours before your appointment without penalty, but fees apply for late changes or no-shows.

Step 4: Apply for Your Real Estate Salesperson License

After passing the exam, you have 12 months to submit your license application to DPOR. Failure to apply within this window requires you to retake the exam.

To apply:

1. Go to the DPOR online licensing portal: dpor.virginia.gov
2. Click “Apply for a License” and select “Real Estate Salesperson”
3. Complete the online application form
4. Submit your exam score report (automatically sent by PSI if you passed)
5. Pay the $170 license fee
6. Provide fingerprints for a state and federal background check (via IdentoGo or another approved vendor)
7. Designate a sponsoring broker

One critical requirement: you must be sponsored by a licensed Virginia real estate broker. This means you cannot operate independently as a salesperson—you must work under the supervision of a broker who holds an active brokerage license. The broker must complete a portion of your application, confirming their willingness to supervise you. If you don’t yet have a broker, many real estate firms offer “new agent” programs and will sponsor you upon hire.

Processing time for applications typically takes 2–4 weeks. Once approved, you’ll receive your license via email and can begin practicing under your broker’s authority.

Step 5: Complete Post-Licensing Education

Virginia requires all newly licensed salespersons to complete 30 hours of post-licensing education within one year of receiving your license. This requirement ensures that new agents build on their foundational knowledge with practical, real-world skills.

The 30-hour course covers:

• Advanced contract negotiation
• Marketing strategies for listings
• Client communication and ethics
• Technology tools used in modern real estate
• Virginia-specific transaction processes

Like pre-licensing education, this course must be completed through a DPOR-approved provider. Many brokers offer in-house training or partner with education companies to provide this requirement at no additional cost to new agents. Completing this course is mandatory to maintain your license in good standing.

Step 6: Maintain Your License Through Continuing Education

Virginia real estate licenses are valid for two years. To renew your license, you must complete 16 hours of continuing education (CE) during each renewal cycle. These courses must be approved by DPOR and cover topics such as:

• Updates to Virginia real estate law
• Fair housing compliance
• Agency law and fiduciary duties
• Technology and digital marketing trends
• Ethics and professional standards

CE courses can be completed online or in person. Many providers offer flexible scheduling, including on-demand modules that you can complete at your convenience. You must submit proof of completion to DPOR before your license expiration date. Failure to complete CE on time results in late fees or license suspension.

Additionally, if your license lapses for more than one year, you’ll need to retake the licensing exam. Therefore, staying current with CE is not just a formality—it’s essential to preserving your professional status.

Best Practices

Choose a Reputable Education Provider

Not all real estate schools are created equal. When selecting a pre-licensing or continuing education provider, look for:

• High student satisfaction ratings and verified reviews
• DPOR accreditation (always verify on the official DPOR website)
• Interactive learning tools such as quizzes, flashcards, and video explanations
• Free exam prep materials and practice tests
• Access to instructors for Q&A sessions

Top-rated providers in Virginia include Real Estate Express, The CE Shop, Kaplan Real Estate Education, and Virginia Real Estate Academy. Avoid providers that promise “guaranteed passes” or offer minimal content—these often fail to prepare you adequately for the exam or real-world practice.

Study Strategically for the Exam

The Virginia real estate exam is challenging, with a statewide pass rate hovering around 60–65%. To increase your odds of success:

• Create a study schedule—dedicate at least 1–2 hours daily for 4–6 weeks before the exam
• Use flashcards for key terms (e.g., “listing agreement,” “fiduciary duty,” “disclosure requirements”)
• Take multiple full-length practice exams under timed conditions
• Focus on Virginia-specific laws—these are often the difference between passing and failing
• Review the Virginia Real Estate License Law and Regulations handbook (available free on DPOR’s site)

Many successful candidates report that the state portion of the exam includes nuanced questions about commission splits, agency disclosure timelines, and closing procedures unique to Virginia. Don’t overlook these details.

Build Relationships with Brokers Early

Your choice of sponsoring broker can significantly impact your early career trajectory. Don’t choose solely based on commission splits. Consider:

• Training programs for new agents
• Technology platforms provided (CRM, marketing tools, website builder)
• Team structure and mentorship opportunities
• Reputation in the local market
• Office culture and support systems

Some brokerages offer “new agent boot camps,” access to lead generation tools, and structured coaching. Others may offer high commission splits but little support. Interview multiple brokers before making a decision. Many offer no-cost, no-obligation orientation sessions—take advantage of them.

Develop a Professional Online Presence

In today’s market, over 90% of homebuyers begin their search online. As a new agent, your digital footprint is your first impression. Best practices include:

• Creating a professional website with your photo, bio, and contact information
• Claiming and optimizing your Google Business Profile
• Building active profiles on LinkedIn and Facebook
• Posting consistent, valuable content (e.g., neighborhood guides, market updates, buying tips)
• Using a professional email address (e.g., yourname@yourbrokerage.com)

Even if you’re just starting out, a polished online presence builds credibility and helps you attract clients through search engines and social media.

Network Locally and Join Professional Organizations

Real estate is a relationship-driven business. Attend local chamber of commerce events, open houses, and community meetings. Join the Virginia Association of Realtors (VAR) and your local board of Realtors. These organizations offer:

• Access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS)
• Networking events and mentorship programs
• Legal and compliance resources
• Discounts on marketing tools and insurance

Being active in your local real estate community not only expands your network but also keeps you informed about market shifts and regulatory changes.

Tools and Resources

Official State Resources

• Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR) – dpor.virginia.gov – The authoritative source for licensing requirements, forms, exam details, and continuing education approvals.
• Virginia Real Estate License Law and Regulations – Available as a free downloadable PDF on the DPOR website. Essential reading for exam prep and daily practice.
• PSI Exams Portal – psiexams.com – Official exam registration and scheduling platform.
• Virginia Association of Realtors (VAR) – var.com – Offers education, advocacy, MLS access, and professional development for licensed agents.

Education and Exam Prep Tools

• Real Estate Express – Comprehensive online pre-licensing course with live instructor support and unlimited practice exams.
• The CE Shop – Highly rated for self-paced learning, mobile-friendly interface, and state-specific content.
• Kaplan Real Estate Education – Trusted provider with detailed video lectures and exam simulations.
• Real Estate Exam Prep by Pocket Prep – Mobile app with 1,000+ practice questions and flashcards for on-the-go studying.

Technology and Productivity Tools

• CRM Software – Follow Up Boss, LionDesk, or Dotloop to manage leads and client communications.
• Marketing Platforms – Canva for designing flyers and social media posts; Mailchimp for email newsletters.
• Virtual Tour Tools – Matterport for creating immersive 3D property walkthroughs.
• Document Signing – DocuSign or PandaDoc for secure, paperless contract execution.
• MLS Access – Provided through your broker; essential for listing and searching property data.

Books and Reading Materials

• Virginia Real Estate License Exam Prep by Kaplan Real Estate Education
• Real Estate Principles: A Value Approach by Ling & Archer
• The Book on Rental Property Investing by Brandon Turner (for agents interested in investment properties)
• Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss (for mastering negotiation techniques)

Real Examples

Example 1: Maria, a Former Teacher in Alexandria

Maria, a 34-year-old elementary school teacher, wanted a career with more flexibility and income potential. After researching options, she chose real estate. She enrolled in a 60-hour online course through The CE Shop, completing it in six weeks while teaching. She passed the Virginia exam on her first attempt with a score of 78%. She secured sponsorship with a boutique brokerage in Old Town Alexandria that offered a mentorship program. Within three months, she closed her first sale—a $525,000 townhouse—and earned $15,750 in commission. She completed her 30-hour post-licensing course during her first summer break and joined VAR. Today, Maria runs her own team and mentors three new agents.

Example 2: James, a Veteran in Richmond

James, a U.S. Army veteran, transitioned to civilian life with a desire to serve his community. He used his GI Bill benefits to fund his pre-licensing education through Real Estate Express. He took advantage of the program’s live Q&A sessions and studied daily for 90 minutes. He passed the exam with a 75% score. He chose a large brokerage in Richmond that offered a robust new agent training curriculum and access to a digital marketing team. Within six months, James was listed as a top producer in his office for first-time homebuyers. He now hosts monthly “Veteran Homebuyer Workshops” and partners with local VA loan specialists to support fellow service members.

Example 3: Priya, a College Student in Fairfax

Priya, a 20-year-old college student studying business, decided to get licensed during her sophomore year to gain practical experience. She completed her 60 hours during winter break and took the exam in January. She was sponsored by her uncle, a licensed broker, who allowed her to shadow him on weekends. She used her student status to build a social media following focused on college students and young professionals looking to rent or buy in Fairfax. By her senior year, she had closed four transactions and earned over $20,000. She now works full-time in real estate and plans to pursue her broker’s license in two years.

FAQs

How long does it take to get a real estate license in Virginia?

On average, it takes 2–4 months to obtain your license, depending on how quickly you complete your 60 hours of education, schedule and pass the exam, and submit your application. Some motivated individuals complete the entire process in under 60 days.

Can I take the Virginia real estate exam without completing the 60-hour course?

No. Virginia law requires completion of 60 hours of approved pre-licensing education before you can register for the exam. There are no exceptions.

How much does it cost to get a real estate license in Virginia?

Total costs typically range from $800 to $1,500, including:

• Pre-licensing course: $300–$600
• Exam fee: $60
• Licensing fee: $170
• Background check (fingerprinting): $50–$75
• Post-licensing course: $150–$300
• Association dues (VAR and local board): $400–$800/year

Do I need a college degree to become a real estate agent in Virginia?

No. A high school diploma or GED is the minimum education requirement. However, a degree in business, finance, or marketing can be beneficial for career advancement.

Can I work as a real estate agent part-time?

Yes. Many agents begin part-time while maintaining other jobs. The flexibility of the profession allows you to set your own hours. However, success often requires significant time investment, especially in the first year.

What’s the difference between a salesperson and a broker?

A salesperson works under the supervision of a licensed broker. A broker has completed additional education and experience requirements and can operate their own brokerage, hire agents, and manage transactions independently. You must start as a salesperson before becoming a broker.

Is the Virginia real estate exam hard?

It’s challenging but manageable with proper preparation. The exam tests both general knowledge and Virginia-specific laws. Many candidates fail due to underestimating the state portion. Studying the DPOR regulations thoroughly is critical.

Can I transfer my license from another state to Virginia?

Virginia does not have full reciprocity, but if you hold an active license in another state, you may be eligible for a waiver of the pre-licensing education requirement. You’ll still need to pass the Virginia state portion of the exam and complete the application process. Contact DPOR for details.

How do I find a sponsoring broker?

Research local brokerages, attend open houses, and reach out to offices directly. Many have “new agent” pages on their websites. Ask about training, commission splits, and support systems. Don’t be afraid to interview multiple brokers.

What happens if I fail the exam?

If you fail one section, you can retake just that portion within six months. You’ll pay a $60 retake fee. If you fail both sections, you must retake the entire exam. You’re allowed up to three attempts within a 12-month period. After that, you must reapply and pay the full fee again.

Conclusion

Earning your real estate license in Virginia is more than a professional credential—it’s the gateway to a dynamic, high-reward career that blends interpersonal skills, market insight, and entrepreneurial drive. The process, while structured and regulated, is designed to be accessible to anyone willing to put in the work. From completing your 60 hours of education to navigating the exam, securing a sponsoring broker, and building your client base, each step builds the foundation for long-term success.

Success in real estate doesn’t come from memorizing laws—it comes from understanding people, mastering communication, and delivering value consistently. The tools, resources, and best practices outlined in this guide are your roadmap. But your journey begins with a single decision: to take the first step.

Virginia’s housing market is evolving rapidly, with demand outpacing supply in many areas and technology reshaping how transactions occur. Those who enter the profession with discipline, integrity, and a commitment to lifelong learning will not only survive—they will thrive.

Whether you’re drawn to real estate for financial freedom, the joy of helping families find homes, or the thrill of the deal, Virginia offers ample opportunity. Now that you know the steps, the tools, and the strategies, it’s time to act. Enroll in your course today. Schedule your exam. Find your broker. And begin the journey that transforms a license into a legacy.