How to become a real estate agent in West Virginia
West Virginia real estate agents are licensed by the West Virginia Real Estate Commission. Here is what it takes to work as a licensed real estate agent in West Virginia, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Part of the state's website could not be reached when we checked, so some details come from West Virginia law and official forms. Confirm them on the official page before you apply.
Who can become a real estate agent in West Virginia?
- Complete 90 hours of Commission-approved pre-license education within the past three years
- Score 70% or higher in each course subject area
- Criminal background check
West Virginia real estate agent license requirements
| Licensed by | West Virginia Real Estate Commission |
|---|---|
| License name | Salesperson |
| Education or training | 90 clock hours: Real Estate Principles and Practice (30), Real Estate Law (20), Real Estate Finance (20), Real Estate Appraisal (20) |
| Exam | Pearson VUE administers the licensing exam; applicants licensed elsewhere take only the state-specific portion. |
| Works under a broker | Yes. Licenses are held under an employing broker; changing brokers requires a Change of Broker form. |
| License term | Annual, by fiscal year (renew by June 30) |
| Continuing education | 7 hours of approved CE each fiscal year; licensees who pass both exams during the fiscal year of their first renewal are exempt. |
| Reciprocity | West Virginia publishes reciprocity agreements by state; applicants licensed elsewhere must take the state-specific exam portion. |
How much does it cost?
| Salesperson/broker exam application | $25.00 |
|---|---|
| Salesperson license (initial and each later license) | $75.00 |
| Annual salesperson renewal | $75.00 |
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 West Virginia
- Complete the 90-hour pre-license course
- Apply online to the Commission
- Complete the criminal background check
- Pass the exam with Pearson VUE
- Get licensed under an employing broker
Apply on the official West Virginia site
How do you check a real estate agent's license in West Virginia?
- Search the name or license number on the official West 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.