How to Become a Real Estate Broker in Virginia

Thinking about taking your real estate career to the next level by becoming a broker in the Commonwealth of Virginia? You’re in the right place. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from meeting Virginia’s experience requirements to completing your pre-licensing education and passing the broker exam. We’ll also cover important details like exam format, costs, and reciprocity options. By the end, you’ll have a clear roadmap to help you move forward with confidence and take that next big step in your real estate journey.

The Path to Becoming a Licensed Real Estate Broker in Virginia

Here’s a quick breakdown of the four key steps you’ll need to follow to become a licensed real estate broker in Virginia:

1. Meet the Experience Requirements
2. Complete Your Broker Pre-Licensing Education
3. Submit Your Broker License Application
4. Pass the Virginia Broker Exam

Keep reading for a step-by-step breakdown of what each stage involves—and how to move through the process with confidence.

1. Meet the Experience Requirements

Before you can qualify for a real estate broker license in Virginia, you’ll need to hold an active Virginia salesperson license and have enough hands-on experience in the field. Here’s what that typically includes:

• Active Salesperson Experience: You’ll need to show that you’ve been actively working as a licensed real estate salesperson for at least 36 out of the past 48 months before applying for your broker license.
• Valid Salesperson License: You must hold an active Virginia salesperson license in good standing—meaning it can’t be expired, suspended, or under any disciplinary action.
• Transaction Records: Keep detailed records of your real estate transactions while you're actively working—they may come in handy. When you apply for your broker license, you might be asked to show proof of your experience in the field.

Making sure you meet these experience requirements is a key first step—it sets the stage for the education and licensing process that comes next.

2. Complete Your Broker Pre-Licensing Education

Once you’ve confirmed that you meet the experience requirements, the next step is to complete Virginia’s 180-hour broker pre-licensing education by enrolling in an accredited program. For a smooth and supportive learning experience, we highly recommend joining our partnered real estate broker program—it offers in-depth training, expert guidance, and exam prep resources designed specifically for Virginia’s licensing process.

Virginia requires you to complete 180 hours of broker pre-licensing coursework. During that time, you’ll dive into key topics such as:

• Real Estate Appraisal
• Real Estate Brokerage
• Real Estate Finance
• Real Estate Investment

Once you complete the 180-hour course, you’ll need to pass a final exam from your education provider to earn your completion certificates. These certificates serve as proof of eligibility when applying to take the official broker exam.

3. Submit Your Broker License Application

Once you’ve finished your education and gathered your experience documentation, it’s time to start the application process with the Virginia Real Estate Board. In most cases, this will involve:

• Fill Out the Required Forms: You can get the broker license application by downloading it from the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR) website, or by requesting a copy directly.
• Include Proof of Education & Experience: Be sure to attach your course completion certificates along with any documentation that confirms your active work as a licensed salesperson.
• Pay the Application Fee: Fees can vary, so be sure to check the latest fee schedule on the DPOR website before submitting your application.

Once your application is reviewed and approved, you’ll be officially cleared to schedule and take the Virginia Real Estate Broker Exam.

4. Pass the Virginia Broker Exam

The last big step on your path to becoming a broker is taking—and passing—the Virginia Real Estate Broker Exam. Here’s what you need to know about applying for the exam and what to expect on test day, based on the latest available guidelines:

How to Apply for the Exam

• Register with PSI: Virginia’s real estate licensing exams are administered by PSI. You can register online through their website (www.psiexams.com).
• Pay the Exam Fee: Both the national and state portions of the exam come with a fee. Be sure to check with PSI or visit the DPOR website to confirm the latest pricing and accepted payment methods.
• Schedule Your Exam: Once you’re registered, you’ll be able to choose a testing location, date, and time that works best for you.

Exam Information

• National Portion: 75 questions
• State Portion (Broker-Specific): 50 questions

You’ll need to pass both the national and state sections of the exam to qualify for your broker’s license.

Time Allotment

• National Portion: 105 minutes
• State Portion: 55 minutes

Passing Score

• National Portion: You need to answer at least 60 out of 75 scored questions correctly.
• State Portion: You need to answer at least 38 out of 50 scored questions correctly.

Once you’ve passed both sections of the exam, PSI will walk you through the next steps—usually including how to finalize your license with the Virginia Real Estate Board.

FAQs About Becoming a Real Estate Broker in Virginia

Thinking about becoming a real estate broker in Virginia but not sure where to start? You’re not alone. Below, we’ve answered some of the most frequently asked questions—covering everything from the perks of becoming a broker to how long it takes and what it might cost—so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.

Is Becoming a Real Estate Broker in Virginia Right for You?

If you’re ready to level up your real estate career, earning your broker’s license can open the door to exciting new possibilities. As a broker, you can lead your own firm, earn higher commissions, and mentor other agents—giving you more control and influence in the industry.

It’s also a chance to build your own brand, shape your business the way you want, and enjoy greater independence in Virginia’s ever-evolving real estate market. If you’ve gained solid experience as a salesperson and are ready to take the reins, this could be the perfect next move.

How Fast Can You Get a Broker’s License?

The timeline really depends on your starting point, but generally, you’ll need to complete the following before you can make it official:

1. A minimum of 36 months of active experience as a licensed salesperson within the past 48 months.
2. 180 hours of state-approved broker pre-licensing education.
3. Time to prepare for and pass the broker exam, based on your schedule and study pace.

If you already meet the experience requirement and stay focused, it’s entirely possible to knock out the coursework and pass the exam in just a few months—especially with consistent study time and a well-planned schedule.

How Much Do Real Estate Brokers Make?

Real estate brokers in Virginia often enjoy higher earning potential than salespersons—thanks to greater responsibilities, access to better commission splits, and the ability to earn overrides from the agents they manage. 

Depending on your location, experience level, and area of specialization, many brokers in Virginia earn anywhere from $70,000 to well over $100,000 per year.

How Much Does a Real Estate Broker’s License Cost?

Here’s a general breakdown of the typical costs you can expect when working toward your broker license in Virginia:

• Pre-licensing Education (180 hours): $800 – $1,300
• Exam Fee: $60
• License Application Fee: $120 – $285
• Background Check & Fingerprinting: $50 – $100
• Optional Study Materials/Exam Prep: $50 – $200

Costs can vary depending on where you enroll, so be sure to double-check current fees with your education provider, PSI, and the Virginia Real Estate Board to avoid any surprises.

What’s the Difference Between a Real Estate Agent and a Broker in Virginia?

In Virginia, a real estate agent—also known as a salesperson—is licensed to help clients buy, sell, or rent properties. However, agents must work under the supervision of a licensed broker and follow that broker’s policies. They don’t manage the office or take on the legal responsibilities of running a brokerage.

Brokers, on the other hand, have completed additional education and gained more hands-on experience. They’re licensed to work independently, run their own firm, supervise other agents, manage trust accounts, and handle client disputes. Simply put, brokers carry more responsibility—and more freedom—than agents.

Does Virginia Offer Broker License Reciprocity?

Yes—but with some important requirements. To apply for a broker license through reciprocity in Virginia, you must already hold a current broker license in another state. You’ll also need to pass the Virginia-specific portion of the broker exam, provide documentation showing you’ve been actively licensed and working as a salesperson or broker for at least 36 of the last 48 months, submit official transcripts verifying completion of 180 hours of broker pre-licensing education that’s substantially equivalent to Virginia’s requirements, and include certification letters from any other states where you currently hold or have previously held a license.

Meeting these criteria ensures that out-of-state brokers are held to the same high standards as in-state applicants.

Final Thoughts on Becoming a Real Estate Broker in Virginia

Becoming a licensed real estate broker in Virginia is a major step forward in your career. It can boost your earning potential, open the door to leadership opportunities, and give you the freedom to build and lead your own business. Once you’ve met the experience requirements, completed 180 hours of approved coursework, and passed the state broker exam, you’ll be well on your way to a more rewarding and independent future in real estate.

Ready to take that next step? Join our trusted broker program for expert instruction, personalized support, and everything you need to succeed. Just click the Enroll button below to get started on your path to becoming a licensed Virginia real estate broker!