Starting a new career as a real estate agent in Virginia is both a rewarding and challenging journey. With a robust housing market and diverse opportunities, getting a Virginia real estate license can open doors to a thriving career. This guide will walk you through each step of the process, ensuring you are well-prepared to meet all the requirements set forth by the DPOR (Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation) and the VREB (Virginia Real Estate Board.) Before diving into the steps to becoming a licensed real estate agent in Virginia, it’s essential to ensure that you meet the basic real estate license eligibility requirements for Virginia:
- Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old.
- Educational Background: You must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
Meeting these prerequisites is essential to begin your journey toward getting a Virginia real estate license.
6 Easy Steps to Get Your Virginia Real Estate License
Now that you’re considering a career in real estate in the Commonwealth of Virginia and you meet the eligibility requirements, the first step is to get your Virginia real estate license. The process of getting a Virginia real estate license is straightforward, but it requires careful planning, dedication, and an understanding of the state’s requirements. This guide will walk you through the six key steps to get your real estate license in VA. And remember, MLS Campus is a licensed real estate school with over 15 years of experience. We are here to help you navigate the journey to get your real estate license from start to finish!
Step 1: Complete Your Real Estate Agent Pre License Course
Your significant first step is to enroll in and complete a real estate agent pre-licensing course consisting of 60 hours of VREB-approved coursework. At MLS Campus, we offer a comprehensive real estate agent pre license course for Virginia. Our course provides a solid foundation in real estate principles, Virginia-specific real estate laws, and ethical standards.
At MLS Campus, our real estate agent pre license course is structured to meet state requirements and ensure you are fully prepared to excel in your real estate career.
Step 2: Pass the Real Estate Agent License Course Final Exam
After completing the real estate agent pre license course for Virginia, you must pass a final exam to complete the next step in getting your real estate license. This exam tests your understanding of the material covered in the course and ensures that you are adequately prepared to move forward in the licensing process. Your performance on this exam is a crucial indicator of your readiness to take the state licensing exam.
Step 3: Pass the Virginia Real Estate License Salesperson Examination
The Virginia real estate license salesperson exam is the next hurdle in your journey to becoming a licensed real estate agent in Virginia. The exam consists of two sections:
National Section: 80 questions with a time limit of 105 minutes. A passing score of 70% or higher is needed.
State-Specific Section: 40 questions with a time limit of 45 minutes. You need a score of at least 75% to pass.
Successfully passing both sections is a testament to your knowledge and readiness to become a licensed real estate agent and practice real estate in Virginia.
PSI Application Procedures for the State Exam
Once you have completed your education, MLS Campus will submit your completion information to the PSI testing center. You will then be able to register for the state exam. Be prepared to provide the following:
- Personal bio information (name, email, address, and ID)
- A recent 2 “x2” photo with a white background and full-face view
Upon passing the exam, you will receive a certificate of completion, which will be mailed to you.
Step 4: Complete a Background Check and Fingerprinting
Integrity and trust are paramount in the real estate industry. To uphold these standards, you must undergo a background check and fingerprinting. This process is conducted at an authorized PSI testing center. It helps the VREB ensure that all applicants wishing to get a Virginia real estate license maintain the ethical standards expected of real estate professionals.
IMPORTANT NOTE: You must ensure your background check is not older than 45 days. Please follow the link to Virginia state requirements for more information.
Step 5: Secure a Sponsoring Broker
Before applying for your Virginia real estate license, you must affiliate with a licensed Virginia real estate broker. This broker will sponsor your application and provide you with the necessary guidance as you start your new career. Choosing the right broker is essential, as they will play a critical role in your professional development and success in the industry. Check out this article for tips and advice on choosing a sponsoring broker.
Step 6: Apply for Your Virginia Real Estate License
Once all the previous steps have been completed, you will be at the final step in getting your real estate license! You must submit your real estate license application to the VREB. This application must include:
- Proof you have completed the real estate agent license course for Virginia
- Your passing scores from both sections of the real estate license state exam
- Your Fingerprinting and background check documentation
- A processing fee of $170
Once your application is approved, you will receive your Virginia real estate license and can begin practicing as a licensed real estate agent!
The Cost of Getting a Real Estate License In Virginia
When working towards getting a real estate license, you should be aware of some fees and costs. The following are the typical costs of getting a real estate license in Virginia that you should anticipate when applying for your VA real estate license:
- Educational Fees: Vary by provider; MLS Campus offers competitive course prices starting at $98.
- Examination Fee: Approximately $60.
- Background Check and Fingerprinting Fee: Approximately $52.
- Licensing Application Fee: $170.
These costs are part of the process of getting your real estate license, and you should budget accordingly.
Virginia Real Estate License FAQ:
Here, we have answered some of your most frequently asked questions regarding getting a Virginia real estate license and aim to provide valuable tips and advice.
Why Pursue a Career in Real Estate in Virginia?
Virginia’s real estate market is dynamic, with consistent growth in both residential and commercial sectors. Whether you are interested in helping individuals find their dream homes or working with businesses to secure commercial properties, the opportunities are vast. The state’s thriving economy and diverse population create a robust market for real estate professionals. Many applicants working towards a real estate license in Virginia plan to work as a licensed agent alongside other work commitments. Other applicants see it as a long-term and full-time career choice. Whatever role you choose, you can be sure you will benefit from an exciting and rewarding profession.
Do Real Estate Agents Make Good Money in Virginia?
Figures from ZipRecuiter show that from August 21, 2024, the average annual salary for a real estate agent in Virginia is $92,296. To break it down, this amounts to roughly $44.37 per hour, equivalent to $7,691 per month. As you progress in your career, more experienced real estate agents can make as much as $127,397 annually in Virginia.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Real Estate License in Virginia?
Getting your Virginia real estate license will typically take around 2 to 4 months, depending on your schedule and the time you dedicate to the process. Here’s more of a detailed breakdown of how long each step should take:
Time to Complete your Real Estate Agent Pre License Course: The agent pre-licensing course can be completed in as little as two (2) weeks if taken full-time, but most people complete it within 4 to 6 weeks, especially if balancing other work and family commitments.
Tips for Completing Your Course:
- Choose the Right Format: You should consider whether online or in-person classes suit your learning style. Online courses offer flexibility, allowing you to study at your own pace at a convenient time. Online courses can also save you money and time on textbooks and lengthy commutes.
- Set a Schedule: You should try to dedicate specific days and times each week for studying, just like you would for a job. Always remember that consistency is vital.
- Break It Down: Try to divide the material into manageable sections and set yourself mini-goals for each study session. This will help prevent you from feeling overwhelmed and ensure steady progress. Our real estate agent pre license course has been broken down into manageable units, so you can set yourself a goal of completing one or two units a day.
- Engage with the Material: You should always take notes and take advantage of the many quizzes and free practice exams to reinforce your understanding of key concepts. MLS Campus provides free Virginia real estate license practice exams with each course to help you pass your final exams.
Preparing for Your Licensing Exam:
Here are some tips and a breakdown of how long it will usually take to prepare for your Virginia real estate license exam.
Time to Prepare: After completing the course, you should set aside 2 to 3 weeks to review and study for your exam.
Study Tips:
- Review Your Course Materials: You should review your notes and the learning assignments provided in your real estate agent pre license course. Focus on areas where you feel less confident.
- Benefit from Practice Exams: Take advantage of the free practice exams that you can take as many times as you need to familiarize yourself with the exam format and timing. This can also help identify areas that you need to review more. MLS Campus offers free real estate practice exams for each of our online courses.
- Set Aside Time Daily: Even if you can dedicate an hour a day to preparing for your license exam, this can make a big difference. The key is consistent, focused study sessions.
Submitting Your Application and Background Check:
Processing Time: After passing the exam, submitting your real estate license application and completing the background check can take approximately 2 to 4 weeks.
Does Virginia Offer Real Estate License Reciprocity?
Here, we explain how to get your Virginia real estate license through reciprocity.
What is License Reciprocity?
License reciprocity allows real estate agents licensed in one state to obtain a license in another without completing all the requirements from scratch. License reciprocity can be a huge time-saver, especially for agents moving to Virginia or wanting to expand their business across state lines.
Since November 2022, Virginia has been considered a state with full license reciprocity.
Requirements for Obtaining a Virginia Real Estate License Through Reciprocity
While the reciprocity process simplifies the licensing requirements, there are still specific steps and conditions you must meet:
- Hold an Active License: You must hold an active real estate license in good standing in your current state. If your license is expired or inactive, you will need to reactivate it before applying in Virginia.
- Submit Your Application: You need to complete and submit the appropriate application form for a reciprocal real estate license to the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR).
- Provide Certification of Licensure: You must provide a certification of licensure from your current state, which verifies that your license is active and in good standing. This certification must be issued within the last 60 days.
* You must also provide proof that you have completed at least 60 hours of pre-license course in your original state. - Pass the Virginia State-Specific Exam: Even with reciprocity, you must pass the Virginia-specific portion of the real estate licensing exam. This exam focuses on Virginia real estate laws and regulations. MLS Campus offers exam prep for Virginia to help you prepare thoroughly for your exam.
- Complete Fingerprinting and Background Check: All applicants must have a fingerprint-based background check. This process ensures that you meet the professional and ethical standards required by the state of Virginia.
- Pay the Required Fees: There are fees associated with the application process, including exam fees, background check fees, and licensing fees. Ensure you have the necessary funds to cover these costs.
We hope you have learned all you need to know about how to get a real estate license in Virginia. If you have more questions, please get in touch with our dedicated support team. We are happy to help guide you through the process of getting your real estate license in Virginia.
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If you decide you’re not 100% satisfied within the First 30 Days of your initial purchase, simply contact us by email and request a cancellation and full refund. You will receive a full refund of your purchase price. If the final exam has been taken, a refund can not be issued. The Florida Real Estate Exam Prep Master and the Florida Exam Prep Math, if purchased separately are not refundable.
Course Duration
The course is active for six months from the date of purchase. We offer the 7th month for free if needed. If your course has been active for 7 months or more, you can purchase one-month extensions. It is possible to have the course extended by up to one year by purchasing monthly extensions online.
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