How to get a real estate license in Salem, VA
There is no separate Salem real estate license. Agents in Salem hold a Virginia salesperson license from the Virginia Real Estate Board, part of the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR), the same as everywhere else in the state. Here is what that means locally, with the full steps in the Virginia guide.
The Virginia steps at a glance
- Take 60 hours of pre-license education
- Pass the Virginia and national exams
- Get fingerprinted
- Mail the application
- Finish 30 hours of post-license education in year one
Full Virginia guide · Renewal and CE rules
Salem by the numbers
- Active licensees
- 149
- Salespersons
- 149
- First licensed in the last 12 months
- 8
Source: Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR) active salesperson list (public record), as of October 23, 2026. Salespersons only (the file used lists salespersons). Counted by the city and ZIP code on file (county or independent city from the ZIP code, using Census 2020 ZIP areas). Active means a current license.
Picking a brokerage in Salem
The Virginia guide explains when you need to work under a broker. Many new agents talk to a few local offices before they decide.
Questions
Do I need a separate license to sell real estate in Salem?
Not for the real estate license itself: the Virginia Real Estate Board, part of the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR) issues it and it covers all of Virginia. The city may have its own business license rules, so check with the city.
Where do I take the course if I live in Salem?
Any school approved by the Virginia Real Estate Board, part of the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR) works, in a classroom or online where the state allows it. Check the approval before you pay.
Nearby city guides: Virginia Beach · Fredericksburg · Winchester · Alexandria · Stafford · Newport News · Williamsburg · Chesapeake
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Rules change, so always confirm with the official source.
Licensed already?
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