How to Get Your Virginia Real Estate License
How to Get Licensed in Virginia
Virginia offers Salesperson and Principal Broker licenses under Virginia Code Title 54.1, regulated by VREB.
Salesperson License Requirements
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a high school diploma or GED
- Complete 60 hours of VREB-approved pre-licensing education
- Pass the Virginia real estate Salesperson exam through PSI
- Submit a Salesperson license application with the $170 fee
- Complete fingerprint-based background check
- Affiliate with a Virginia-licensed Principal Broker
Post-Licensing (30 hours within 2 years)
Virginia Salespersons must complete 30 hours of post-licensing within the first 2 years. Courses cover advanced practice topics.
Principal Broker License Requirements
- Hold an active Salesperson license for at least 3 years
- Have demonstrable active practice during those 3 years
- Complete 180 hours of broker pre-licensing education
- Pass the Broker exam
- Submit a Broker license application
Continuing Education
Virginia requires 16 hours of CE every 2 years to renew. Mandatory topics include 8 hours of mandatory and 8 hours of elective.
Reciprocity
Virginia offers full reciprocity with all other U.S. states — out-of-state licensees from any state can apply to obtain a Virginia license through VREB's reciprocity process. Check with VREB for the current application requirements.
Passed Your Virginia Real Estate Exam? Here's What's Next.
Step 1: Confirm your sponsoring Principal Broker
You cannot operate as a licensed Salesperson without affiliating with a Virginia-licensed Principal Broker.
Step 2: Submit your license application via VREB
Required: passing scores, completed application, $170 license fee, sponsoring Principal Broker, background check.
Step 3: Background check
Virginia requires fingerprint-based background checks.
Step 4: Wait for license issuance
VREB processes complete applications within 2-4 weeks.
Step 5: Post-licensing (30 hours within 2 years)
Virginia Salespersons must complete 30 hours of post-licensing within the first 2 years.
Step 6: Continuing education
After post-licensing, Virginia requires 16 hours of CE every 2 years.
Realistic income expectations
Median Virginia agent earns $55,000. Brokers $78,000.
- Year 1: $25K-$50K
- Year 2-5: $50K-$90K
- Top 25%: $90K-$200K+
- Top 5% (Northern VA / DC metro): $200K+
Northern Virginia's DC metro proximity creates strong demand and high prices. Hampton Roads (Norfolk, Virginia Beach) and Richmond also support productive agents.
The first 30 days
Week 1: Set up MLS access, learn brokerage CRM. Week 2: Send "I'm now licensed" announcement. Week 3: Shadow your Principal Broker. Pay attention to VRPDA handling. Week 4: Start prospecting and schedule post-licensing.
Total Cost to Get Licensed in Virginia
| Pre-licensing education (60 hrs) | $300-$600 |
| Exam fee | $60 |
| License application fee | $170 |
| Background check | $50 |
| Total estimate | $580-$880 |
Most candidates are licensed within 4-8 weeks of passing the exam.
Your Path to Virginia Real Estate
Follow the progression from entry-level to advanced licensure.
Salesperson License
Who is this for?
This license is ideal for individuals new to real estate who want to start their career helping clients buy and sell property To obtain a Salesperson license, you must be sponsored by a licensed broker or brokerage firm.
Requirements
Your Exam
You need roughly 86 out of 120 questions correct to pass.
To upgrade: 3 years experience, no sponsorship needed
Broker License
Who is this for?
This license is ideal for experienced professionals who want to operate independently or run their own brokerage
Requirements
Your Exam
You need roughly 98 out of 125 questions correct to pass.
Virginia Real Estate License Reciprocity
Virginia offers full reciprocity with all other U.S. states. If you hold an active real estate license in another state, you can apply for a license in Virginia without completing the full pre-licensing education. You may still need to pass the Virginia-specific portion of the state exam.
Moving from another state? Browse exam prep for all 50 states.
Reciprocity rules change. Verify current requirements with the Virginia real estate commission before applying.
Virginia Licensing FAQ
Requirements done? The exam is the last gate.
98.4% of our students pass the Virginia exam on the first try. Try 5 free Virginia questions.
Try 5 Free Virginia Questions