Introduction

Whether you are exploring the opportunity to start your own real estate business or simply want to be a part of a dynamic, exciting industry, real estate is the place to be. 

A career in real estate is your stairway to becoming a high net worth professional. 

If you want to earn a six figure salary and be your own boss in Virginia, then a career as a real estate agent can be your calling. 

On an average, an experienced real estate agent in Virginia can earn up to $100K annually. In fact, there are some popular cities in Virginia where the average annual salary can go as high as $120K!  

Imagine the possibilities with such a strong salary and that too while working your way to the top in a dynamic, exciting industry. 

If you are already wondering how do I get my real estate license in Virginia, then we are here to help you get started. 

We have put together this step by step guide to help you plan your entry into the world of Virginia’s real estate market. 

The housing market in VA is showing steady growth driven by high demand. The selling prices have already seen a notable increase of around 10% since last year.  

Whether you are switching careers or starting one from the scratch, you will need preparation to become a licensed real estate agent in Virginia. 

In this step-by-step guide, we will dive deep into every aspect of the real estate licensing exam in Virginia to help you get started. 

Let us start with the basics first of getting a Virginia real estate license and how to start your journey.

Virginia real estate licensing requirements

Wondering how to become a VA real estate agent and assist clients in the sale, purchase or renting of real estate. 

Firstly, you will be required to fulfill the minimum requirements as established by the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation. 

Here are the basic preliminary eligibility requirements to become a licensed agent in VA: 

• You must be at 18 years of age or older
• You must be a legal citizen of the United States or a lawfully admitted alien
• You must not have a high school education or equivalent in education

Secondly, you must fulfill the pre-license education requirements. 

As per the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR) in Virginia, every applicant must complete a minimum of 60 hours of official pre-licensing coursework to be eligible for taking the state licensing exam. 

To complete your pre-licensing training, you can either join a real estate college or enroll in an online course provider. 

Listed below are some of the topics you will be exposed to during your pre-licensing training: 

• Real Estate Business
• Real Estate Contracts
• Federal and State Laws
• Real Estate Laws and Licenses
• Property rights 
• Fair trade and ethics

It is important to note that you must only enroll in a state authorized real estate college, university or online course provider. 

Next, let us learn more about the VA state licensing exam and what it entails. 

What is Virginia real estate licensing exam

As per the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR), every aspiring real estate agent must take and clear the state licensing exam. 

The licensing exam is a test to determine the level of knowledge and preparation of an applicant. 

Once you have completed the pre-licensing courses, you will face this exam which consists of 150 questions in total. 

It consists of two parts – both state as well as national portions with each portion asking a specific set of questions. 

The national portion of the licensing exam consists of 80 questions whereas the state specific portion consists of 40 questions. 

You will get 2.5 hours to complete the exam and its questions. There is no particular limit on the number of questions you can answer. 

However, it is recommended that in order to obtain the minimum passing score, you should attempt to answer at least 56 questions from the national section and 30 questions from the state section. 

To clear the exam, you must successfully obtain a passing score of at least 75% or above.

Note that it will cost you a one-time fee of $52 to take the licensing exam in Virginia. 

Tips on clearing the Virginia real estate licensing test

Passing a real estate exam can seem like a monumental task to many applicants, especially if you are preparing for the first time. 

However, with enough practice and determination, you can easily clear the exam with confidence. Preparation is the key to achieving success in the licensing test.

Below are some practical tips on how to prepare better:

• Enroll in a pre-licensing course to get proper guidance and coaching.
• Take and review class notes as your progress through the coursework.
• Practice using sample tests and mock question papers from previous years.
• Try to work on difficult questions more often without ignoring them. 
• Practice stress management by doing exercises and taking breaks. You should also get proper sleep and eat healthy meals days before the exam.