Quick Facts: Virginia Real Estate Exam Overview
Virginia Real Estate Salesperson Exam:
- 120 total questions (80 national + 40 state-specific)
- 150 minutes total time limit
- 70% passing score required
- $61 exam fee
Virginia Real Estate Broker Exam:
- 125 total questions (75 national + 50 state-specific)
- 160 minutes total time limit
- 70% passing score required
- $61 exam fee
Bottom Line: The Virginia real estate exam has a 60-70% first-time pass rate. With proper preparation using PSI-approved study materials and practice tests, most candidates pass within 1-2 attempts.
Virginia Real Estate Exam Requirements
Before scheduling your PSI Virginia real estate exam, you must meet these Virginia Real Estate Board (DPOR) requirements:
- Age: Minimum 18 years old
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Background: Pass criminal background check through Virginia State Police
- Pre-license Course: Complete 60-hour Virginia-approved salesperson course
Important: You cannot take the Virginia real estate licensing exam without first completing an approved 60-hour pre-license course. Learn more about what's covered in the Virginia real estate pre-licensing course.
How to Study for the Virginia Real Estate Exam
Get Official Study Materials
Download the current Virginia Real Estate Candidate Information Bulletin which outlines exactly what topics appear on your exam.
Recommended Study Timeline:
- 6-8 weeks: Ideal preparation time
- 20-30 hours: Total study time needed
- 1-hour sessions: Maximum effective study length
Key Virginia Real Estate Topics
Virginia-Specific Exam Topics (40 questions):
- Virginia Real Estate License Law and Regulations
- Virginia Fair Housing Act requirements
- Virginia Residential Property Disclosure Act
- Agency relationships and disclosures in Virginia
- Virginia Real Estate Transaction Recovery Fund
National Real Estate Topics (80 questions):
- Real estate principles and practices (25%)
- Property ownership and transfer (20%)
- Real estate financing (15%)
- Property valuation and appraisal (15%)
- Real estate contracts (15%)
- Real estate mathematics (10%)
Study Resources
- Aceable Agent Practice Tests - Included with pre-license course
- PSI Practice Exams - Mirrors actual test format
- Free Virginia Real Estate Practice Test - Get 50 free practice questions
Test Your Knowledge: Free Practice Quiz
Ready to see if you're prepared for the Virginia real estate exam? Take our free practice quiz!
What to Expect on Virginia Real Estate Exam Day
Arrival and Check-in
Arrive 30 minutes early at your PSI testing center with:
- Two forms of valid ID (driver's license + passport/birth certificate)
- Confirmation number from your exam registration
Security includes: Fingerprint scan, metal detector screening, and secure storage for personal items.
Prohibited Items
- Cell phones and electronic devices
- Paper, notebooks, or personal calculators
- Food, drinks, or tobacco products
- Weapons of any kind
Note: PSI provides basic calculators and scratch paper during the exam.
Testing Environment
- No questions about exam content allowed
- Unlimited breaks (but time continues running)
- Strict silence - talking results in immediate dismissal
Getting Your Virginia Real Estate Exam Results
Immediate Score Report
- Results available: Immediately after completing exam
- Pass/Fail status: Clearly indicated for both portions
- Retake eligibility: Available next business day if needed
When You Pass
Congratulations! Here's what happens next:
- Receive license application at testing center
- Submit application to Virginia Real Estate Board (DPOR)
- Pay licensing fees ($170 for initial salesperson license)
- Find a sponsoring broker to activate your license
Ready to explore your career options? Learn about what you can do with a Virginia real estate license and discover how to become a Realtor in Virginia.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the Virginia real estate exam cost?
The PSI exam fee is $61 for both salesperson and broker exams. Additional costs include pre-license course ($200-500) and licensing fees ($170). Learn more about the complete cost of becoming a real estate agent in Virginia.
Can I retake the Virginia real estate exam if I fail?
Yes, you can schedule a retake as soon as the next business day. If you pass either the state or national portion, you only need to retake the failed section.
How long is my Virginia real estate exam score valid?
Exam scores are valid for 12 months from the test date. You must apply for your license within this timeframe.
Expert Tips for Success
Focus Areas:
- Virginia License Law: Study Chapter 54.1-21 thoroughly
- Agency Relationships: Understand dual agency rules specific to Virginia
- Disclosure Requirements: Master Virginia Residential Property Disclosure Act
- Fair Housing: Know both federal and Virginia fair housing laws
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Spending too much time on difficult questions
- Not reading questions carefully (watch for "EXCEPT" and "NOT")
- Skipping practice tests that simulate actual exam conditions
Final Week Preparation:
- Take 2-3 full-length practice exams
- Review Virginia-specific laws and regulations
- Practice real estate math calculations
- Get adequate sleep before exam day
Ready to start your Virginia real estate career? Begin with a comprehensive pre-license course and exam prep program. Explore the Virginia Real Estate Career Center to learn about commission rates, career opportunities, and licensing requirements.
Updated 8/7/25