How to become a real estate agent in Virginia
Virginia real estate agents are licensed by the Virginia Real Estate Board (Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation). Here is what it takes to work as a licensed real estate agent in Virginia, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a real estate agent in Virginia?
- At least 18 years old
- High school diploma or GED
- Fingerprint-based state and national criminal history check
- Good reputation for honesty, truthfulness and fair dealing
Virginia real estate agent license requirements
| Licensed by | Virginia Real Estate Board (Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation) |
|---|---|
| License name | Real Estate Salesperson |
| Education or training | 60 class/clock hours in a Board-approved pre-license course |
| Exam | PSI administers the exam, which has state and national portions; apply within 1 year of your first exam date. |
| Works under a broker | Yes. To be active, a salesperson activates with a firm or sole proprietorship. |
| License term | 2 years |
| Continuing education | New salespersons must complete a 30-hour post-license curriculum within one year of licensure; other salesperson renewals require a 16-hour CE curriculum. |
| Reciprocity | Virginia offers a Salesperson Universal License Recognition application for those licensed elsewhere. |
How much does it cost?
| Initial salesperson license by examination | $230.00 |
|---|
Fees as listed by the state. Schools, courses, exam prep, insurance and equipment cost extra and vary by provider.
Steps to become a real estate agent in Virginia
- Complete the 60-hour pre-license course
- Pass the state and national exam with PSI
- Submit fingerprints through an approved vendor
- Mail the salesperson application with the fee within one year of the exam
- Activate with a firm
- Complete 30 hours of post-license education within one year
Apply on the official Virginia site
How do you check a real estate agent's license in Virginia?
- Search the name or license number on the official Virginia real estate agent license lookup.
- Check that the status is active and the name matches the person or company you're hiring.
- Ask how long they've been licensed and whether any complaints or discipline are on record.