How Long Does It Take to Get a Virginia Real Estate License?

If you’re ready for something new and exciting, a real estate career in Virginia might be the move. But before you dive in, you’re probably wondering: how long is this actually going to take?

Good news: this isn’t a drawn-out degree program. It’s a streamlined path that fits around your schedule, and many agents are fully licensed and working with clients in just a few months. Let’s walk through what really affects your timeline—so you can plan (and start earning) confidently.

Pre-Licensing Course: Pick Your Pace

Virginia requires 60 hours of state-approved pre-licensing education. This is where you’ll build your foundation: real estate law, contracts, financing, ethics, and more.

You’ve got options on how you take it:

• Online courses (like AceableAgent’s Virginia real estate course) let you learn anytime, anywhere.
• In-person classes offer more structure, but less flexibility.

Timeframe:

• Fast pace: 2–4 weeks (for full-time or daily study)
• Average: 6–8 weeks (with work/life balance in mind)

Exam Prep: More Than a Review Session

Passing the state licensing exam takes more than a quick cram. You’ll want to spend dedicated time practicing with sample questions and reviewing both national and Virginia-specific content.

Need help knowing what to study? We break it down in our Virginia real estate exam prep.

Timeframe: 2–4 weeks of solid prep (can overlap with course completion)

License Application: Wait Times Matter

Once you’ve passed the exam, you’ll submit your license application to the Virginia Real Estate Board, along with your background check and fingerprinting.

• Application fee: $170
• Background check: fingerprinting required
• Submission: Online or by mail

Timeframe: 2–4 weeks for processing, depending on how quickly you complete fingerprinting and documentation.

Brokerage Onboarding: Your Launch Pad

To start working with clients, you need to activate your license with a sponsoring brokerage. This part can be a fast or longer process if you want to compare options and interview teams.

Not sure how to pick the right one? Check out our guide to finding a real estate broker in Virginia.

Timeframe: 1–3 weeks depending on your decision process

First Transaction: Start Strong

Once your license is active, it’s game on. Your first sale could come within weeks—or take a few months—depending on your market, network, and hustle.

Most new agents focus on:

• Hosting open houses
• Connecting with friends and family
• Partnering with a mentor
• Promoting themselves online

Need ideas? Here’s how new real estate agents find their first clients.

Timeframe: First sale often closes 2–3 months after activation

Total Timeline: From Start to First Sale

Here’s a realistic path from zero to licensed (and paid):

• Pre-licensing education: 2–8 weeks
• Exam prep and testing: 2–4 weeks
• Application and processing: 2–4 weeks
• Finding and affiliating with a brokerage: 1–3 weeks
• First transaction post-license: 2–3 months

Total Time: 4 to 6 months (faster if you move quickly)

Can You Speed It Up?

Absolutely. Motivated learners who choose online courses, prep strategically, and line up their brokerage early can fast-track the process. Some AceableAgent students finish licensing and go live in under 3 months.

But even if life gets busy, it’s still possible to hit your goal within 6–9 months with a consistent part-time schedule.

Want the Fastest Start?

AceableAgent’s course is built for busy people with big goals. Study from your phone, your couch, your breakroom—wherever you are.

The sooner you start, the sooner you could be helping clients and building your business.

Explore our Virginia course and get licensed on your terms.