Starting Your Career in Real Estate: How to Get Licensed in DC, VA & MD

If you’re interested in starting your real estate career in the DC area, first you should decide which jurisdictions you want to be licensed in. Many agents in the area find it’s beneficial to get licensed in more than one state so they can serve buyers and sellers as they move about the region. Wherever you chose to start, first you’ll need to hit the books. Here is the step-by-step process to get your license in DC, MD or VA:

Step 1: Choose where you want to be licensed. Do you plan to do the most of your business in MD, DC or VA?

Step 2: Register and complete the 60-hour Pre-Licensing Course:

DC approved schools [PDF]
MD approved schools (can be taken online)
VA approved schools (can be taken online)

Step 3: Schedule and pass the Real Estate Exam (includes both of the National and State exams). Once you have passed the course, you will receive a certificate of completion, which enables you to register for the exams:

DC exam (administered by Pearson Vue)
MD exam (administered by PSI)
VA exam (administered by PSI)

Step 4: Send Salesperson Application

DC: Follow the directions on the application (Score Report) you receive at the examination site.
MD Application
VA Application

Step 5: Choose a brokerage to associate with and begin your career!

If you need more help, feel free to call our office at 202-232-0600. Paul Sliwka, our Principal Broker, is always happy to speak with new agents.

RECOMMENDED RESOURCES:
Moseley Flint Real Estate self-study (Virginia): This online home study course satisfies all requirements for Virginia prelicensing real estate education. The program delivers information needed to pass the National and State portions of the State exam. Topics covered include: Real Estate Principles and Practices, Title and Ownership, Contracts and Agency, Finance and Valuation, Environmental, Math and Virginia License Law and Regulations. Each section can be printed if desired. $225

Greater Capital Area Association of Realtors (GCAAR)
GCAAR hosts both online and in person classes for Maryland and Washington, DC licenses. As a newly licensed member of GCAAR, you are also automatically enrolled in the Rookie Society. For new licensees, the transition from basic pre-licensing training to the real-world application can be a challenge. GCAAR wants to make sure you have all the resources needed to be a skilled professional no matter how long you’ve been in the business.

The mission of the Rookie Society is to promote REALTOR® advancement by providing networking opportunities, fostering discussion, and stimulating the open interchange of ideas on issues important to new members of the profession including duties, responsibilities, and challenges.

Frequently Asked education questions: http://gcaar.com/classes_ektid5768.aspx