Virginia Real Estate Licenses
For those pursuing a Virginia real estate license, this guide provides all the essential information, including real estate continuing education requirements.
It’s suitable for everyone in the state, with additional resources for major cities like Richmond (VA).
We explore the best real estate classes and online courses available, ensuring you have access to quality education and resources throughout Virginia.
Don't Become a Realtor If...
If you’re seriously interested in getting your real estate license, here are some great additional resources:
Requirements
To become a real estate agent in Virginia, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent (GED)
Like all US states, Virginia allows out-of-state applicants, so you do not need to reside there to become licensed as a real estate agent.
Pre-Licensing Education
Complete 60 hours of pre-license education through courses approved by the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR). These courses include:
- Real Estate Principles and Practices (60 hours)
Examination
Virginia Real Estate Exam Details
Exam Structure
- Total Questions: 120 multiple-choice questions
- National Portion: 80 questions
- State-Specific Portion: 40 questions
- Time Limit: 2.5 hours total (105 minutes for the national portion, 45 minutes for the state portion)
- Passing Score: 70% on each section
Registration and Fees
- Exam Fee: $60, payable when scheduling the exam through PSI Services.
- Registration: After completing your 60 hours of pre-licensing education, submit your application to the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR). Once approved, you can register for the exam through PSI Services.
Identification Documents
- Required ID: Candidates must bring two forms of identification on exam day, including a government-issued photo ID with a signature (e.g., driver’s license or passport).
Exam Difficulty and Passing Rates
The Virginia Real Estate Exam is considered moderately challenging, with proper preparation needed for both the national and state-specific portions.
Required Forms and Documents
- Pre-License Education Certificate
- Proof of completing 60 hours of pre-license education from an accredited provider is required.
- Initial License Application
- Submit your initial license application through the Virginia DPOR after completing pre-licensing education.
- Application Fee
- The fee is $170, payable when submitting your license application.
Background Check
- Fingerprinting
- Approved Vendor: Fingerprinting must be completed through a Virginia-approved vendor, such as IdentoGO.
Cost: The fingerprinting fee is approximately $52, payable directly to the vendor.
- Approved Vendor: Fingerprinting must be completed through a Virginia-approved vendor, such as IdentoGO.
- Submission
- The fingerprint results will be sent directly to the Virginia DPOR as part of your application process.
- Processing
- The Virginia DPOR reviews your background check results before approving your license application.
Application
After passing the exam and completing the background check, submit your license application to the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation.
- Application Fee: $170
Post-Licensing Education
30-Hour Post-Licensing Course
- Timeframe: New real estate salespersons in Virginia must complete 30 hours of post-licensing education within the first year of obtaining their license.
- Course Content:
- Real Estate Law and Regulations
- Contracts and Agency
- Ethics and Professional Responsibility
- Risk Management
- Fair Housing
Approved Providers
- The post-licensing education must be completed through an approved provider listed by the Virginia DPOR.
Submission
- Proof of course completion must be submitted to the Virginia DPOR within the first year of licensure to maintain an active license.
Continuing Education
Total Hours Required: 16 hours of continuing education every two years to renew their license.
- Core Courses (8 hours):
- Fair Housing
- Real Estate Law and Regulations
- Ethics and Agency
- Elective Courses (8 hours):
- Real Estate Finance
- Property Management
- Environmental Issues in Real Estate
Approved Providers
- Continuing education courses must be completed through an approved provider listed by the Virginia DPOR.
Submission
- Proof of completion must be submitted through the DPOR’s online portal.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
- Inactive License: If the CE requirements are not met within the two-year period, your license will be placed on inactive status, preventing you from practicing real estate.
- Reactivation: To reactivate your license, complete the required CE hours and submit proof to the Virginia DPOR.
Virginia Real Estate Education Options
Online Options
Virginia offers a variety of excellent online real estate education options, with several reputable schools providing comprehensive digital courses to help you earn your real estate license.
Aceable Agent stands out as a top choice in Virginia, offering impressive pass rates, great customer reviews, and high-quality course materials that make it a leading option for aspiring real estate professionals.
Virginia residents are lucky to have access to Aceable Agent’s courses, which are available in only a few select states, including Virginia.
While Aceable Agent may not be offered in every state, its curriculum is exceptional wherever it’s available. Don’t forget to take advantage of the exclusive 10% discount we’ve secured for you below.
If you’re considering other options, we’ve also arranged special discounts for additional programs. The CE Shop is a budget-friendly alternative, and by combining our 30% discount with their 20% military discount, you can save even more.
Ultimately, while all of these courses are affordably priced, we highly recommend Aceable Agent for the best mix of value and success. If their pricing is slightly higher than expected, it may be worth the extra investment to ensure you’re building the strongest foundation for your real estate career.
1. Aceable Agent – Best Overall Course
Aceable Agent is the best choice for real estate education in Virginia, offering a mobile-first platform and engaging content.
Pros
- Mobile-first platform: Study anywhere, anytime.
- Interactive content: Engaging quizzes, videos, and real-world scenarios.
- High pass rates: Proven success in preparing students for licensing exams.
Cons
- Slightly higher pricing: More expensive without discounts, but worth it.
Up to 20% off with our Aceable Agent discount link.
2. The CE Shop – Best Budget Course
The CE Shop is the most affordable option for real estate education in Virginia, providing a solid self-paced curriculum.
Pros
- Most affordable: The 30% discount makes it the cheapest option.
- Self-paced: Flexibility for students to study at their own speed.
Cons
- Mixed reviews: Some students report engagement issues and customer service problems.
- No live instruction: Entirely self-paced learning.
Get 30% off with Discount Code “INBOUNDREM” using our CE Shop discount link.
3. Kaplan Real Estate
Kaplan Real Estate offers a structured learning experience for Virginia students, with live online and self-paced formats.
Pros
- Multiple formats: Offers live online classes and self-paced options.
- Experienced instructors: Known for delivering high-quality education.
Cons
- Higher cost: More expensive than budget options, but justified for quality.
Get 10% off with our Kaplan Real Estate discount link.
4. Colibri Real Estate
Colibri Real Estate provides flexible learning formats, including self-paced courses and live webinars, suitable for Virginia students.
Pros
- Flexible formats: Self-paced and live webinars available.
- Pass guarantee: Refund if you don’t pass the state exam.
Cons
- Additional costs: Study resources may increase the total price.
Up to 15% off with our Colibri Real Estate discount link.
In-Person Options by Major Cities
Richmond:
- Long & Foster Institute of Real Estate: Offers in-person pre-licensing and continuing education courses.
- Virginia Commonwealth University Continuing and Professional Education: Provides in-person real estate courses, including pre-licensing education.
Virginia Beach:
- Alpha College of Real Estate: Offers in-person pre-licensing and continuing education classes.
- Tidewater Community College: Provides in-person real estate education.
Arlington:
- Northern Virginia Community College: Offers a variety of in-person educational courses for pre-licensing and continuing education.
Reciprocity
Full Reciprocity
Virginia offers full reciprocity with the following states:
- Connecticut
- Maryland
- New York
- North Carolina
- Pennsylvania
If you hold an active real estate license in one of these states, you can apply for a Virginia real estate license without additional education or examination requirements. You must submit an application and pass a background check.
Partial Reciprocity
Virginia offers partial reciprocity with other states. If you hold an active real estate license in another state, you may qualify for a waiver of some of the pre-licensing education requirements.
You will still need to pass the Virginia state-specific portion of the real estate exam and fulfill other state-specific requirements.
For detailed information and required forms, visit the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation Reciprocity Information.
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Broker's License
To become a real estate broker in Virginia, you must:
- Have at least three years of active real estate salesperson experience within the last five years
- Complete 180 hours of broker pre-license education
- Pass the Virginia Real Estate Broker Examination
- Submit a broker license application to the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation
Criminal Record
The Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation reviews applications from individuals with a criminal record on a case-by-case basis.
If you have a felony or other serious criminal conviction, you may still apply for a real estate license, but the Department will consider the nature of the crime, the time elapsed since the conviction, and evidence of rehabilitation.
Crimes involving fraud, theft, or moral turpitude are particularly scrutinized. It’s recommended to contact the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation directly to discuss your specific circumstances and determine your eligibility.
Cost Breakdown
Item | Cost Range |
---|---|
Total | $730 – $1,330 |
Pre-License Education | $300 – $600 |
Exam Fee | $60 |
Background Check | $50 – $100 |
Application Fee | $170 |
Post-Licensing Education | $100 – $200 |
Continuing Education | $50 – $200 per cycle |
Resources and Contacts
- Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation:
- Street and Mailing Address: 9960 Mayland Drive, Suite 400, Richmond, Virginia 23233-1485
- Telephone: (804) 367-8526
- Email: reboard@dpor.virginia.gov
- Real Estate Salesperson Forms
- PSI Examination Services: (800) 733-9267
Document Checklist
- Proof of age (ID, birth certificate)
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident status
- High school diploma or GED certificate
- Completion certificates for 60 hours of pre-license courses
- Exam pass notification from PSI
- Fingerprint submission and background check confirmation
- Completed application form for the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation
- Payment for application fee
Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Real Estate Agent in Virginia
- Meet Basic Requirements: Ensure you are at least 18 years old, a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, and have a high school diploma or equivalent (GED).
- Complete Pre-License Education: Enroll in and complete 60 hours of pre-license courses approved by the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation.
- Schedule and Pass the Examination: Register for the Virginia Real Estate Salesperson Examination through PSI. Study for and pass the exam, ensuring you achieve a minimum score of 70% on both the national and state-specific portions. Pay the exam fee of $60.
- Submit to a Background Check: Arrange for fingerprinting and a criminal background check through a Virginia State Police-approved vendor. Ensure all required documentation is submitted to the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation.
- Submit Your Application: Complete and submit the real estate license application to the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation, including the application fee of $170.
- Find a Sponsoring Broker: To activate your license, find a licensed Virginia real estate broker to work under. This is required for both temporary and permanent licensure.
- Complete Post-Licensing Education: Within the first year of obtaining your license, complete 30 hours of post-licensing education.
- Begin Your Real Estate Career: Once your license is issued, start your career as a licensed real estate agent in Virginia.
- Complete Continuing Education: Every two years, complete 16 hours of continuing education, including mandatory and elective courses, to maintain and renew your license.
Virginia Real Estate Agent Salary
In Virginia, real estate agents earn an average salary of $101,340 per year, with a common range between $40,000 and $185,000.
The median salary is around $95,000, indicating a strong earning potential. Top agents, especially in high-demand areas like Northern Virginia and Richmond, can earn well over $220,000 annually.
Virginia’s proximity to Washington, D.C., and a strong economy contribute to a competitive real estate market.
The state’s moderate to high cost of living can influence the overall value of earnings, making it crucial for agents to perform well to achieve high incomes.
FAQs
Can I become a real estate agent in Virginia if I have a felony?
The Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation reviews applications from individuals with a criminal record on a case-by-case basis. Certain felonies, particularly those involving fraud or moral turpitude, may disqualify you. Contact the Department for specific inquiries.
How long does it take to become a real estate agent in Virginia?
It typically takes 3-6 months to complete the pre-license education, pass the exam, and obtain your license.
What is the cost to become a real estate agent in Virginia?
The total estimated cost ranges from $730 to $1,330, including education, exam fees, background checks, and application fees.
Does Virginia have reciprocity with other states?
Virginia has full reciprocity with several states and partial reciprocity with others. You may need to pass the Virginia state-specific portion of the real estate exam and meet other requirements.
Summary
Becoming a real estate agent in Virginia involves meeting educational requirements, passing an exam, undergoing a background check, and completing post-license and continuing education.
By following these steps and utilizing the provided resources, you can successfully start and maintain your real estate career in Virginia.
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We have an agreement with The CE Shop to promote online course information to consumers and real estate licensees. We are not the developer of these courses and is simply providing a referral. All education is provided by The CE Shop and any questions regarding course content or course technology should be directed to The CE Shop.