Best Online Real Estate Schools in Virginia (2026)
Compare 11 Virginia DPOR-approved schools. Find the best price with exclusive CertLaunch discounts and get your real estate license faster.
Last Updated: March 3, 2026 • Verified by CertLaunch Research Team
Course Cost
$99 – $495
Time to License
4 – 8 weeks
Avg Salary
$85,000/yr
Required Hours
60 hours
What is a Virginia Real Estate Salesperson License?
A Virginia Real Estate Salesperson License is a state-issued credential that allows you to legally represent buyers and sellers in real estate transactions under the supervision of a licensed broker. It is the entry-level license required to start a career as a real estate agent in the Commonwealth of Virginia. To obtain it, you must complete 60 hours of education and pass the PSI-administered state exam.
Top 3 Virginia Real Estate Schools at a Glance
1. RealEstateU
Best for value and flexibility. Audio-based course lets you listen on the go.
$79.20
with code CERTLAUNCH
2. AceableAgent
Best for interactivity. Modern app-based learning with AI tutor.
$149
3. MLS Campus
Best budget alternative. Great pass rates and straightforward content.
$99
Best Real Estate Schools in Virginia
All 10 schools are Virginia DPOR-approved. Price: Low to High.
Quick Price Comparison (Course Only)
RealEstateU
Best ValueStarting at
$99
$79.2
- Best value guarantee
- Audio-led course
- Freedom to study anywhere
Available Packages (3)
Course Only
- 60-hour pre-license course
- Audio lessons
- Infographics
- 6-month access
MLS Campus
Low PriceStarting at
$99
- Audio course options
- Math cram included in higher tiers
- Instructor support
Available Packages (3)
Basic
- 60-hour pre-license course
- Audio/Read options
- Instructor support
- 6-month access
AceableAgent
Top RatedStarting at
$149
- Native iOS & Android app
- Interactive content
- AI Tutor
Available Packages (3)
Basic
- 60-hour pre-license course
- Lite exam prep
- Instructor support
VanEd / 360training
Starting at
$149
- Free 5-day trial
- Customer support
- Career resources
Available Packages (3)
Standard Package
- 60-hour pre-license course
- e-book
- Instructor support
Virginia Real Estate Online School
Starting at
$196
- Super Summary PDF
- Instructor support
- Video exam prep
Available Packages (4)
Pre-License Course
- 60-hour course
- Super Summary PDF
- Instructor support
Kaplan Real Estate
Starting at
$210
- Interactive Study Group
- Real Estate Accelerator
- Trusted national brand
Available Packages (3)
Principles Course
- 60-hour pre-license course only
Colibri Real Estate
Starting at
$239
- Pass or Don't Pay Guarantee
- Instructor Q&A
- Career booster
Available Packages (4)
The Basics
- 60-hour pre-license course
- Instructor support
- 2 e-books
The CE Shop
Starting at
$239
- 96% satisfaction rate
- LEAP 2.0 interactive platform
- Pass Guarantee
Available Packages (4)
Courses Only
- 60-hour pre-license course
- Business ebooks
- Career resources
Moseley Flint Schools of Real Estate
Local ExpertStarting at
$250
- Virtual Instructor
- Money-Back Guarantee
- Oldest VA provider
Available Packages (2)
Online Self-Paced
- 60-hour course
- Virtual Instructor
- Exam Prep
- Money-Back Guarantee
Advanced School of Real Estate
Starting at
$299
- Livestream drop-in access
- Exam prep workbook
- Virginia Beach based
Available Packages (2)
Ultimate Success
- 60-hour online course
- Access to livestream sessions
- Exam prep workbook
Prices verified March 2026. Prices may change. Always confirm current pricing on the school's website before enrolling.
Online vs. Classroom Real Estate Courses in Virginia
Most Virginia students (over 70%) now choose online real estate schools for their flexibility and lower cost. However, classroom learning can be better for those who need structure.
| Feature | Online (Self-Paced) | Classroom / Livestream |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $99 – $300 | $400 – $600+ |
| Schedule | Anytime (24/7 access) | Fixed days & times |
| Pace | Fast as 2 weeks (or up to 6-12 months) | Typically 4-8 weeks |
| Best For | Self-starters, busy schedules, budget-conscious | Students who need accountability & live interaction |
Verdict: For most students, online courses offer the best balance of affordability and speed. Schools like RealEstateU and AceableAgent provide high-quality instruction at a fraction of the cost of traditional schools.
How Much Do Real Estate Agents Make in Virginia?
Average Annual Income
$50,000 – $85,000
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
Top Earners
$110,000 – $150,000+
Experienced agents in top markets
Commission Structure
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the mean annual wage for real estate agents in Virginia is approximately $64,420, with top earners in the 90th percentile making over $106,000. However, income is commission-based. Industry reports from Real Trends suggest that active agents in high-volume markets like Northern Virginia often exceed these averages, with top producers earning well over $150,000 annually.
Virginia real estate agents typically earn 2.5%–3% commission per transaction. On a $410,000 home (Virginia median), that's approximately $10,250–$12,300 per sale. New agents on a 70/30 split with their brokerage would keep $7,175–$8,610. Closing 4–6 deals your first year is a common benchmark, putting first-year earnings at $30,000–$50,000.
Top-Earning Virginia Markets
Is a Virginia Real Estate License Worth It?
👍 Pros
- + Unlimited Income Potential: Top producers in Northern Virginia earn well into six figures.
- + Low Barrier to Entry: Only 60 hours of education and under $500 total to get licensed.
- + Stable Market: Virginia, especially Northern VA, has a historically robust housing market driven by government and tech sectors.
👎 Cons
- - Commission-Only Income: No salary — you don't get paid until you close a deal.
- - Challenging Exam: The Virginia exam has a notoriously low first-time pass rate (around 40-50%).
- - High Competition: There are many licensed agents, so building a client base takes effort.
How to Get a Real Estate License in Virginia
Complete 60 Hours of Pre-License Education
Enroll in a Virginia Real Estate Board (DPOR) approved 60-hour Principles of Real Estate course. Courses can be taken online or in a classroom. All schools listed above are approved.
Pass the Course Final Exam
After completing the 60 hours, you must pass the school's final proctored exam with a score of 70% or higher.
Pass the Virginia Real Estate Exam
Register with PSI to take the state licensing exam. You must pass both the National and State portions. Cost: $60.
Complete Fingerprinting & Background Check
Get fingerprinted at a PSI test center (walk-in) or schedule an appointment with Fieldprint for a background check (~$52).
Apply for Your License
Submit your license application to the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR) with the $170 fee.
Find a Sponsoring Broker
You must be sponsored by a licensed Virginia real estate broker to activate your license and begin practicing.
Virginia Real Estate License Requirements
Eligibility Requirements
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Must have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Must have a US Social Security number
- Must pass a background check
Education & Exam Requirements
- 60 hours of approved pre-license education
- Pass school final exam (proctored)
- Pass Virginia state exam (120 questions total)
- Exam administered by PSI
Virginia Real Estate License Cost
Here's the complete breakdown of what it costs to get your Virginia real estate license in 2026:
| Pre-License Course (60 hours) | $99 – $495 | Varies by provider |
| State Exam Fee | $60 – $60 | Paid to PSI |
| License Application | $170 – $170 | Virginia DPOR |
| Fingerprinting | $52 – $52 | Fieldprint or PSI |
| Background Check | Included – Included | Part of fingerprinting fee |
| Estimated Total | $381 – $777+ | Save up to 30% with CertLaunch |
The Virginia Real Estate Exam
Exam Details
- Format: 120 multiple-choice questions
- Passing score: 70% (National) / 75% (State)
- Time limit: 2.5 hours (150 mins)
- Provider: PSI
- Cost: $60
Exam Topics
- Property ownership and land use
- Financing and valuation
- Agency relationships and contracts
- Virginia specific real estate laws
- Fair housing and environmental issues
💡 Exam Prep Tip
The Virginia exam is challenging, with first-time pass rates often below 50%. A course with a strong exam prep component is highly recommended. Consider upgrading to exam prep packages from Aceable or Colibri to ensure you pass on the first try.
How Long Does It Take?
3–4 weeks
Full-time
Studying 5–6 hours/day
5–8 weeks
Part-time
Studying 1–2 hours/day
3–4 months
Casual pace
A few hours per week
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Compare Real Estate Licensing in Other States
Exploring real estate careers beyond Virginia? See how licensing requirements, costs, and timelines compare in other states.
Pennsylvania Real Estate License
75 hrs • $327–$805
How to Get a PA License →
Illinois Real Estate License
75 hrs • $427–$908
How to Get an IL License →
North Carolina Real Estate License
75 hrs • $425–$650
How to Get an NC License →
Washington Real Estate License
90 hrs • $900–$1,300
How to Get a WA License →
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to get a real estate license in Virginia?
The total cost to get licensed in Virginia is typically between $420 and $780. This includes the pre-license course ($99–$495), the PSI exam fee ($60), fingerprinting ($52), and the state application fee ($170).
How long does it take to get a Virginia real estate license?
Most students complete the process in 4 to 8 weeks. The 60-hour pre-license course can be finished in as little as 2 weeks if studying full-time, but allow extra time for exam scheduling and application processing.
What are the requirements for a Virginia real estate license?
You must be at least 18 years old, hold a high school diploma or equivalent, complete 60 hours of approved education, pass the state exam, and undergo a background check. You also need a sponsoring broker to activate your license.
Is the Virginia real estate exam hard?
Yes, it is considered challenging. The first-time pass rate often hovers around 40-50%. It requires a passing score of 70% on the National portion and 75% on the State portion.
Can I take the Virginia real estate course online?
Yes, the Virginia Real Estate Board (DPOR) approves many online providers. Online courses allow you to complete the 60-hour requirement at your own pace from home.
How much do real estate agents make in Virginia?
The average annual income for Virginia agents is around $85,000, though this varies widely. Top producers in high-demand markets like Northern Virginia can earn well over $150,000 per year.
Does Virginia have license reciprocity?
Yes, Virginia has full reciprocity with all other states. If you are a currently licensed agent in another state, you may only need to pass the State portion of the Virginia exam and submit a verification of licensure.
Do I need a college degree to be a real estate agent in Virginia?
No, a college degree is not required. You only need a high school diploma or its equivalent (GED) to qualify for a real estate salesperson license.
How do I choose the best real estate school in Virginia?
Look for a DPOR-approved school with high student ratings and a strong exam prep component. CertLaunch compares top schools like The CE Shop, Aceable, and RealEstateU to help you find the best value.
Can I get a license with a criminal record in Virginia?
It is possible, but you must disclose your history. The Virginia Real Estate Board reviews applicants with criminal records on a case-by-case basis. You may need to submit additional documentation with your application.