Requirements
To become a real estate agent in West 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)
Pre-Licensing Education
Complete 90 hours of pre-license education through courses approved by the West Virginia Real Estate Commission. These courses include:
- Principles of Real Estate (90 hours)
Examination
Pass the West Virginia Real Estate Salesperson Examination administered by PSI. The exam consists of a national portion and a state-specific portion. You need to pass both sections with a score of at least 75%.
- Exam Fee: $96
Background Check
Submit fingerprints for a criminal background check through a vendor approved by the West Virginia State Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). This is required to ensure you meet the ethical standards required for licensure.
Application
After passing the exam and completing the background check, submit your license application to the West Virginia Real Estate Commission.
- Application Fee: $75
Post-Licensing Education
West Virginia does not require post-licensing education for new real estate agents.
Continuing Education
To maintain your license, complete 7 hours of continuing education every year before renewing your license. This includes mandatory courses and elective courses to stay updated with industry changes and legal requirements.
West Virginia Real Estate Education Options
Online Options
- Kaplan Real Estate Education: Provides online pre-licensing courses tailored to West Virginia’s requirements.
- Colibri Real Estate: Formerly known as Real Estate Express, provides flexible online learning options.
- The CE Shop: Offers comprehensive online courses for pre-licensing, post-licensing, and continuing education.
In-Person Options by Major Cities
Charleston:
- West Virginia Association of REALTORS®: Offers in-person pre-licensing and continuing education courses.
- BridgeValley Community and Technical College: Provides in-person real estate courses, including pre-licensing education.
Huntington:
- Mountwest Community and Technical College: Offers in-person pre-licensing and continuing education classes.
- Marshall University: Provides in-person real estate education.
Morgantown:
- West Virginia University Continuing Education: Offers a variety of in-person educational courses for pre-licensing and continuing education.
Reciprocity
Full Reciprocity
West Virginia offers full reciprocity with the following states:
- Arkansas
- Georgia
- Iowa
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maryland
- Nebraska
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Pennsylvania
- South Dakota
If you hold an active real estate license in one of these states, you can apply for a West Virginia real estate license without additional education or examination requirements. You must submit an application and pass a background check.
Partial Reciprocity
West 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 West Virginia state-specific portion of the real estate exam and fulfill other state-specific requirements. For detailed information and required forms, visit the West Virginia Real Estate Commission Reciprocity Information.
Broker's License
To become a real estate broker in West Virginia, you must:
- Have at least two years of active real estate salesperson experience within the last five years
- Complete 180 hours of broker pre-license education
- Pass the West Virginia Real Estate Broker Examination
- Submit a broker license application to the West Virginia Real Estate Commission
Criminal Record
The West Virginia Real Estate Commission 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 Commission 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 West Virginia Real Estate Commission directly to discuss your specific circumstances and determine your eligibility.
Cost Breakdown
Item | Cost Range |
|---|---|
Total | $671 – $1,171 |
Pre-License Education | $400 – $700 |
Exam Fee | $96 |
Background Check | $50 – $100 |
Application Fee | $75 |
Post-License Education | $150 – $300 |
Continuing Education | $50 – $200 per cycle |
Resources and Contacts
- West Virginia Real Estate Commission: (304) 558-3555 | wvrec@wv.gov
- 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 90 hours of pre-license courses
- Exam pass notification from PSI
- Fingerprint submission and background check confirmation
- Completed application form for the West Virginia Real Estate Commission
- Payment for application fee
Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Real Estate Agent in West 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 90 hours of pre-license courses approved by the West Virginia Real Estate Commission.
- Schedule and Pass the Examination: Register for the West Virginia Real Estate Salesperson Examination through PSI. Study for and pass the exam, ensuring you achieve a minimum score of 75% on both the national and state-specific portions. Pay the exam fee of $96.
- Submit to a Background Check: Arrange for fingerprinting and a criminal background check through a West Virginia State Police-approved vendor. Ensure all required documentation is submitted to the West Virginia Real Estate Commission.
- Submit Your Application: Complete and submit the real estate license application to the West Virginia Real Estate Commission, including the application fee of $75.
- Find a Sponsoring Broker: To activate your license, find a licensed West Virginia real estate broker to work under. This is required for both temporary and permanent licensure.
- Begin Your Real Estate Career: Once your license is issued, start your career as a licensed real estate agent in West Virginia.
- Complete Continuing Education: Every year, complete 7 hours of continuing education, including mandatory and elective courses, to maintain and renew your license.
FAQs
Can I become a real estate agent in West Virginia if I have a felony?
The West Virginia Real Estate Commission 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 Commission for specific inquiries.
How long does it take to become a real estate agent in West 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 West Virginia?
The total estimated cost ranges from $671 to $1,171, including education, exam fees, background checks, and application fees.
Does West Virginia have reciprocity with other states?
West Virginia has full reciprocity with several states and partial reciprocity with others. You may need to pass the West Virginia state-specific portion of the real estate exam and meet other requirements.
Summary
Becoming a real estate agent in West Virginia involves meeting educational requirements, passing an exam, undergoing a background check, and completing continuing education. By following these steps and utilizing the provided resources, you can successfully start and maintain your real estate career in West Virginia.
