Seven steps to a Virginia real estate license
The same path as the hub, broken into ordered, actionable steps.
Step 1 — Confirm you're eligible
Applicants generally need to be at least 18 years old and hold a high school diploma or equivalent. Review the full requirements checklist before enrolling in a course.
Step 2 — Complete the 60-hour Principles of Real Estate course
Enroll with a VREB-approved provider and complete all 60 class or clock hours, in a classroom or an approved online format. See the license course guide and online course guide.
Step 3 — Pass the proctored course final exam
Your course provider administers a monitored final exam before issuing a certificate of completion. This step is separate from, and precedes, the state licensing exam.
Step 4 — Register for and pass the PSI exam
Once your course completion is reported, register with PSI Services and pass both the national and state-specific portions of the Virginia salesperson exam. See the exam guide and exam prep guide.
Step 5 — Complete your fingerprint background check
Submit to a fingerprint-based criminal history check through a PSI test center or Fieldprint Virginia. The signed application must be received within 90 calendar days after fingerprint results reach the Board.
Step 6 — Apply through DPOR and affiliate with a firm
Submit the signed current form within one year of the initial examination date and within 90 calendar days after fingerprint results reach the Board. Apply active with firm or broker information and signature, or without affiliation for an inactive license that does not authorize licensed activity. See the application guide for sequencing notes.
Step 7 — Complete your first-year PLE
Complete the 30-hour Board-approved PLE curriculum within one year from the last day of the issuance month, whether the license was issued active or inactive. Missing the deadline moves the license to inactive status. See the renewal & PLE/CE guide.