How to Renew a Real Estate License in Virginia
Renewing your Virginia real estate license is essential to staying compliant with state regulations and maintaining your professional status.
This article serves as a comprehensive guide for both salespersons and brokers, outlining the validity of licenses, required steps for renewal, continuing education (CE) requirements, associated costs, and answers to frequently asked questions.
How Long is a Real Estate License Good for in Virginia?
In Virginia, real estate licenses are valid for two years from the issuance date. Both salespersons and brokers must complete the renewal process, including meeting CE requirements, before their licenses expire.
Steps to Renew Your Real Estate License
Renewing your Virginia real estate license involves a straightforward process. Here are the steps:
- Complete Continuing Education Requirements
- Submit Renewal Application and Fees
Each step is broken down in detail below.
Step 1: Complete Continuing Education Requirements
To renew your license, you must fulfill Virginia's CE requirements. The requirements vary based on whether you are a salesperson or broker.
Salespersons:
Must complete 16 hours of CE every 2 years, including:
- 3 hours in Ethics and Standards of Conduct
- 2 hours in Fair Housing
- 1 hour in Legal Updates and Emerging Trends
- 1 hour in Real Estate Agency
- 1 hour in Real Estate Contracts
- 8 hours of elective courses
New salespersons must complete a 30-hour post-licensing education curriculum within the first year of licensure.
This is separate from the 16-hour CE requirement and includes specific courses such as Fair Housing, Real Estate Law, Ethics, and others.
Brokers:
Must complete 24 hours of CE every 2 years, including:
- 6 hours in Broker Management
- 2 hours in Broker Supervision
- 3 hours in Ethics and Standards of Conduct
- 2 hours in Fair Housing
- 1 hour in Legal Updates and Emerging Trends
- 1 hour in Real Estate Agency
- 1 hour in Real Estate Contracts
- 8 hours of elective courses
It's important to renew your license on time to avoid penalties. Approved courses are available both online and in-person.
For more detailed information, you can refer to the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation's Real Estate Board guidelines.
Step 2: Submit Renewal Application and Fees
Once you’ve completed the required CE courses, you must submit your renewal application along with the appropriate fee:
- Salespersons: $100
- Brokers: $125
Renewals can be completed online through the Virginia DPOR Online Services.
FAQs about Renewing Your Real Estate License in Virginia
Can You Renew a Real Estate License After it Expires?
Yes, Virginia provides a 30-day grace period after the license expiration date. During this period, you can renew by paying the standard renewal fee.
Beyond 30 days (and up to one year), you must pay a reinstatement fee: $100 for salespersons and $120 for brokers.
After one year, you must reapply as a new applicant.
How Much Does a Real Estate License Renewal Cost in Virginia?
The costs are as follows:
- Salesperson Renewal Fee: $100
- Broker Renewal Fee: $125
- Reinstatement Fee (after 30 days): Salespersons: $100; Brokers: $120
What Can I Expect From an Online Continuing Education Course?
Online CE courses offer the ultimate flexibility, allowing you to complete your required hours at your own pace from the comfort of your home. These courses cover key mandatory topics such as:
- Ethics and Standards of Conduct
- Fair Housing
- Legal Updates and Emerging Trends
- Real Estate Agency and Contracts
In addition, you'll have access to elective courses tailored to enhance your skills and knowledge.
US Realty Training’s partnered programs deliver engaging and comprehensive materials designed to meet Virginia's specific CE requirements, ensuring a seamless renewal process.
How Long is a Continuing Education Course?
The duration of CE courses depends on the number of credit hours assigned. For example, a three-hour course typically takes about three hours to complete. With online courses, you can work through the material at your own pace.
A 30-hour course might take you 1–2 weeks, while a 16-hour course can likely be completed within a few days.
Final Thoughts on Renewing a Real Estate License in Virginia
Renewing your Virginia real estate license ensures you remain in good standing as a real estate professional. Whether you’re a salesperson or broker, staying proactive about CE requirements and renewal deadlines will keep your career on track.
Take the next step today—enroll in US Realty Training’s partnered continuing education programs and secure your future in real estate!
TL;DR: Virginia real estate licenses for salespersons and brokers are valid for two years. Salespersons need 16 CE hours, brokers need 24 CE hours. New salespersons must also complete a 30-hour post-licensing course in the first year. Renew online via Virginia DPOR with a $100 fee for salespersons and $125 for brokers. A 30-day grace period applies; after that, reinstatement fees apply. Licenses expired over a year require reapplication.