How Much Does It Cost to Become a Real Estate Agent in Virginia?

Thinking about becoming a real estate agent in Virginia? One of the first things you'll want to figure out is how much it will cost to get licensed. The good news? Compared to a traditional degree or starting a franchise business, the upfront investment is relatively low, and you can start earning it back within weeks of getting licensed.

Virginia's licensing costs are middle-of-the-road compared to other states—lower than California or New York, but a bit higher than some Southern neighbors. Below, we'll break down the real costs of getting your license in Virginia, from required education to the long-term expenses of running your real estate business.

What You'll Actually Pay

Here's a realistic breakdown of costs to go from zero to licensed:

Minimum path (required costs only):

• Pre-licensing course: $130-$400
• State exam fee: $60
• License application: $170
• Background check: $52
• Total: $412-$682

Realistic path (with essentials):

• Add exam prep ($50-$100) + E&O insurance ($300-$500)
• Total: $762-$1,282

Full investment (ready to launch):

• Add marketing startup costs ($500-$1,000)
• Total: $1,262-$2,282

Most new agents spend somewhere between $800-$1,500 to get fully licensed and ready for their first client.

Pre-Licensing Education: $130-$400

Your first step is completing a 60-hour Virginia Real Estate Board-approved course. This gives you the foundational knowledge to take the state licensing exam.

The price range depends on what's included. Basic packages ($130-$200) cover just the core curriculum. Mid-tier options ($200-$300) add practice quizzes and study guides. Premium packages ($300-$400) bundle exam prep, tutoring, or printed materials.

If you want flexibility and control over your study schedule, look for a self-paced course that's accessible on your phone or laptop. That way, you can fit your learning into your current lifestyle—whether that means studying at night, on weekends, or during your lunch break. AceableAgent's Virginia Real Estate License courseVirginia Real Estate LicenseVirginia Real Estate License is mobile-friendly and designed for busy adults who need to study on their own schedule.

Many providers, including AceableAgent, offer payment plans if the upfront cost feels steep.

Exam and Licensing Fees: $230

Once you finish your course, you'll take the Virginia real estate exam. The exam fee is $60, and the license application costs $170. These fees are paid to the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR) and their testing vendor, PSI.

If you don't pass on your first try, you'll need to pay the $60 exam fee again each time you retake it. That's why investing in quality exam prep tools is smart—it often saves you money by helping you pass the first time.

Background Check: $52

Virginia requires all applicants to complete a fingerprint-based background check through a state-approved vendor. This helps ensure that every new agent meets the state's professional standards.

The fingerprinting and processing fee is around $52 as of 2025. You'll usually take care of this at a PSI test center or an authorized partner shortly after passing the exam.

Smart Optional Investments

Some expenses aren't required, but they can make a real difference in your success.

Exam prep tools like flashcards, practice tests, and video tutorials cost anywhere from $20 to $100. These can help you pass on the first try and avoid paying retake fees. AceableAgent's Virginia Real Estate Exam PrepVirginia Real Estate Exam Prep is built specifically to help you pass with confidence.

Errors and omissions insurance (E&O) protects you from liability in case of mistakes or disputes in a transaction. While Virginia doesn't require it to get licensed, most brokerages require you to have it before you can start taking clients. Plan to spend $300 to $500 per year on this essential coverage. Some brokerages provide it, so check before purchasing your own policy.

Realtor association dues are optional, but many agents join for access to local MLS systems, training, and professional networks. Annual dues range from $200 to $450, depending on your local board and whether you join the National Association of Realtors (NAR). You don't need to join on day one—many new agents wait until after their first transaction.

Business Startup Costs: $500-$1,000

Once you're licensed, you're not just an agent—you're also a business owner. To build your brand and start attracting clients, you'll likely invest in business cards ($50-$150), professional headshots ($100-$300), a website or landing page ($100-$500), and possibly CRM or lead management tools ($0-$100/month).

Check what your brokerage provides before spending. These startup marketing costs typically fall between $500 and $1,000, depending on how you set up your business and what tools you need.

Ongoing Costs to Stay Licensed

Virginia real estate agents must complete 16 hours of continuing education every two years to keep their licenses active. Most agents handle this online, and it usually costs $50 to $150 per renewal cycle. Make sure to choose a course provider that's approved by the Virginia Real Estate Board.

You'll also pay $180 every two years to renew your license with DPOR.

Will You Make Your Money Back?

Absolutely. The median home price in Virginia is around $380,000. On a typical transaction with a 5.5% total commission, your side as the agent would be about $10,450. After a standard 60/40 brokerage split, you'd take home around $6,270—more than enough to cover your $1,200 licensing investment on just one deal.

Most agents recoup their licensing costs with their first one or two transactions, and top producers in Virginia make six figures or more. You don't need a college degree or years of training. Just the right education, a little hustle, and a clear path to getting started.

Common Cost Questions

Can I get financial aid? Traditional financial aid isn't available, but many course providers offer payment plans with no interest.

Are there hidden fees? No—the costs listed here are comprehensive. The only surprises usually come from exam retakes or realizing you need better technology to run your business.

What if I don't pass the exam? You'll pay $60 for each retake. Quality exam prep typically costs less than two retakes and dramatically improves your pass rate.

Do I need everything at once? No. Start with your course and exam fees, then add the rest as you get closer to working with clients.

Ready to Get Started?

For less than the cost of a weekend getaway, you can launch a career with unlimited income potential. AceableAgent's Virginia course is fully online, mobile-friendly, and designed to help you pass the exam on your schedule. Plus, our exam prep tools help you pass the first time—saving you money on retake fees and getting you to your first commission faster.

Get started with AceableAgent's Virginia Real Estate License courseVirginia Real Estate LicenseVirginia Real Estate License and see exclusive offers for new students.