How to Get Your Real Estate License in West Virginia (2026)
Compare WVREC-approved schools, see exact costs, and follow the step-by-step process to earn your West Virginia real estate salesperson license.
Course Cost
$399 – $809
Time to License
2 – 4 months
Avg Salary
$52K – $70K/yr
Required Hours
90 hours
Top WVREC-Approved Real Estate Schools at a Glance
6 WVREC-approved schools with verified pricing as of March 2026. Options include online self-paced, live Zoom cohorts, and classroom formats.
1. Cooke Real Estate School
Best for video-based learning. Comprehensive streaming course with 4 package tiers including exam prep workbooks and study materials. WV-approved 90-hour course with 6-month access.
From $399
4 packages up to $649
2. The CE Shop
Interactive online platform with 4 package tiers. Includes Exam Prep Edge, pass guarantee on select packages, and professional development resources. WV-approved 90-hour course.
From $525
4 packages up to $809
3. Spruce School of Real Estate
Self-paced online delivery with WVREC-approved 90-hour course, exam prep materials, practice quizzes, and dedicated student support. Straightforward single-package pricing.
$550
All-inclusive package
4. Realty One, Inc. (Steve Pennington)
Instructor-led classroom and live Zoom delivery. Ideal for candidates who prefer a structured, interactive learning environment with direct instructor access.
$499
Classroom + Zoom
5. New River CTC
Community college offering live Zoom cohort instruction. Structured schedule with professional community college instruction for the 90-hour WV pre-license requirement.
$540
Online Zoom cohorts
6. BridgeValley CTC
Community college offering online cohort instruction. Structured course delivery with community college credentials for the 90-hour WV pre-license requirement.
$625+
Online cohorts
Best Real Estate Schools in West Virginia
All 6 schools are West Virginia West Virginia Real Estate Commission-approved. Price: Low to High.
Quick Price Comparison (Course Only)
Cooke Real Estate School
Best ValueStarting at
$399
- Video-based streaming lessons
- Comprehensive study materials included
- WV-approved 90-hour course
- Exam prep workbooks
Available Packages (4)
Bronze Package
- 90-Hour WV Pre-License Course (Online Video)
- Modern Real Estate Practice Book & Study Guide
- WV Candidate Handbook
- WV Administrative Code
- Course Support Document
Realty One, Inc. (Steve Pennington)
Starting at
$499
- WV-approved 90-hour course
- Classroom and live Zoom delivery
- Instructor-led by Steve Pennington
- In-person and remote options
Available Packages (1)
90-Hour Pre-License Course
- 90-Hour WV Pre-License Course
- Classroom or Live Zoom sessions
- All required course materials
The CE Shop
Starting at
$525
- Interactive online delivery
- WV-approved 90-hour course
- Exam Prep Edge included in upper packages
- Pass guarantee on select packages
Available Packages (4)
Courses Only
- 90-Hour WV Pre-License Course
- Business eBooks
- Career Resources
- Downloadable Resources
- Digital Flashcards
- Real Estate Glossary
- Study Schedule
New River CTC
Starting at
$540
- WV-approved 90-hour course
- Live online Zoom delivery
- Community college instruction
- Structured cohort schedule
Available Packages (1)
90-Hour Pre-License Course
- 90-Hour WV Pre-License Course
- Live Online Zoom Sessions
- Course Materials
Spruce School of Real Estate
Starting at
$550
- WVREC-approved 90-hour course
- Self-paced online delivery
- Exam prep included
- Dedicated student support
Available Packages (1)
90-Hour Pre-License Course
- 90-Hour WV Pre-License Course
- Exam Prep Materials
- Practice Quizzes
- Student Support
BridgeValley CTC
Starting at
$625
- WV-approved 90-hour course
- Online cohort delivery
- Community college instruction
- Structured course schedule
Available Packages (1)
90-Hour Pre-License Course
- 90-Hour WV Pre-License Course
- Online Cohort Sessions
- Course Materials
Prices verified March 2026. Prices may change. Always confirm current pricing on the school's website before enrolling.
Why Get a West Virginia Real Estate License?
West Virginia's real estate market is gaining momentum. The state median home price reached $256,800 in 2024 — up 9.4% year-over-year — driven by demand in markets like Morgantown, Charleston, and Martinsburg. With a 90-hour pre-license course, a $96 Pearson VUE exam, and total licensing costs under $800, the barrier to entry is lower than most states.
📈
Growing Market
Home prices up 9.4% YoY. Martinsburg near the DC metro corridor is attracting buyers priced out of Northern Virginia.
💰
Low Licensing Cost
Total startup costs under $800 — one of the more affordable states to enter real estate. Course starts at $399.
🏡
Strong Commission Returns
A 3% commission on a $256,800 home yields ~$7,700 per side. Top agents in Morgantown earn $90,000+.
Is a West Virginia Real Estate License Worth It?
👍 Pros
- + Affordable Entry: Total licensing costs under $800 — lower barrier than most states.
- + Rising Home Prices: WV median prices up 9.4% YoY; Martinsburg near DC corridor is a high-demand market.
- + Flexible Schedule: Online courses let you study on your own time; no commute required.
👎 Cons
- - Commission-Only Income: No salary — you don't get paid until you close a deal.
- - Limited School Options: Fewer online choices than larger states; verify current WVREC approval before enrolling.
- - Complex Application: Notarized references, sponsoring broker required before applying, and IdentoGO background check add steps vs. other states.
How Much Do Real Estate Agents Make in West Virginia?
Average Annual Income
$52,000 – $70,000
Source: ZipRecruiter / Indeed / CareerExplorer (2024–2025)
Top Earners
$90,000+
Morgantown & Charleston metro agents in high-volume periods
Commission Structure
West Virginia real estate agents typically earn 2.5%–3% commission per transaction. On a $256,800 home (WV median), that's approximately $6,420–$7,704 per sale. New agents on a 70/30 split with their brokerage would keep $4,494–$5,393 per closing. Closing 6–8 deals your first year is a realistic benchmark, putting first-year earnings at $27,000–$43,000.
Top-Earning West Virginia Markets
How to Get a Real Estate License in West Virginia
Complete 90 Hours of WVREC-Approved Pre-License Education
Enroll in a WVREC-approved 90-hour pre-licensing course covering national real estate principles, property law, finance, and West Virginia-specific regulations. Online and in-person options are available. After passing the course final exam, you'll receive a Certificate of Completion required for your application. Your education is valid for 5 years.
Submit a Criminal Background Check (IdentoGO)
Schedule your state and federal criminal background check at uenroll.identogo.com using service code 228Q6K. The fee is $47.25, paid at the time of appointment. Bring the WVREC background check application form from rec.wv.gov. Results are valid for 90 days — time this step to align with your upcoming license application.
Apply for Your Salesperson License with WVREC
Submit your salesperson exam application online at apps.wv.gov/rec or via paper to the WVREC. The $25 application fee is required. Include your course completion certificate, two notarized character references from non-related property owners who have known you at least 2 years, and your sponsoring broker's notarized signature. The WVREC reviews your application before you may schedule the exam.
Receive Exam Authorization and Schedule with Pearson VUE
Once WVREC approves your application, you'll receive an Authorization to Test email from Pearson VUE. This authorization is valid for 90 days or two exam attempts, whichever comes first. Schedule your exam at home.pearsonvue.com/wv/realestate or by calling Pearson VUE. The exam fee is $96, paid at scheduling.
Pass the West Virginia Real Estate Licensing Exam
The exam has two sections: a national portion (100 scored questions + 5 unscored pretest questions, 2.5-hour time limit, pass with 70/100 correct) and a state-specific portion (50 questions, 1-hour time limit, pass with 38/50 correct). Both sections must be passed. Bring two forms of unexpired ID, including a government-issued photo ID with your signature.
Activate Your License and Begin Working
After passing the exam, WVREC will issue your salesperson license under your sponsoring broker's supervision. Your employing broker activates your license, allowing you to begin representing clients. Licensed WV salespersons must complete 7 hours of CE every two years to renew their license, including a mandatory 3-hour WV core course.
West Virginia Real Estate License Requirements
Eligibility Requirements
- Must be at least 18 years old
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- No college degree required
- Must pass state and federal background check (IdentoGO)
- Two notarized character references from non-related property owners
- Must demonstrate trustworthiness and good moral character
Education & Application Requirements
- 90 hours of WVREC-approved pre-license education
- Pass course final exam (varies by school)
- Sponsoring broker's notarized signature required on application
- $25 salesperson exam application fee paid to WVREC
- Pass the Pearson VUE licensing exam (both sections)
- Pre-license education valid for 5 years from completion
📋 Important: Sponsoring Broker Required Before Application
Unlike many states, West Virginia requires you to have a sponsoring (employing) broker lined up before you submit your salesperson exam application. Start networking with brokerages early — especially after completing your 90-hour course — so you're not delayed at the application stage.
West Virginia Real Estate License Cost (2026)
Here's the complete breakdown of what it costs to get your West Virginia real estate license:
| Pre-License Course (90 hours) | $399 – $809 | Cooke ($399–$649), CE Shop ($525–$809), Spruce ($550), Realty One ($499), New River CTC ($540), BridgeValley CTC ($625+) |
| State Exam Fee (Pearson VUE) | $96 – $96 | Per attempt; retakes cost $96 each |
| Criminal Background Check (IdentoGO) | $47 – $47 | Service code 228Q6K; results valid 90 days |
| License Application Fee (WVREC) | $25 – $25 | Salesperson exam application paid before scheduling |
| Estimated Total | $567 – $977 | Compare schools above for the best value |
* Total estimate before any discounts. Prices verified March 2026.
The West Virginia Real Estate Exam
Exam Details
- Provider: Pearson VUE
- National section: 100 scored + 5 unscored questions (2.5 hrs)
- State section: 50 questions (1 hr)
- Passing score: 70/100 national; 38/50 state (76%)
- Exam fee: $96 per attempt
- Authorization valid: 90 days or 2 attempts
Exam Topics
- Property ownership, land use controls, and encumbrances (national)
- Valuation, appraisal, and market analysis (national)
- Financing, mortgages, and calculations (national)
- Contracts, agency relationships, and disclosures (national)
- WV real estate license law and WVREC rules (state)
- WV brokerage practices, property management, and fair housing (state)
💡 Exam Prep Tip
The West Virginia state section tests WV license law, WVREC rules, and local brokerage practices — content that isn't covered in generic national exam prep. Schools that include WV-specific exam prep workbooks (like Cooke's Silver Package and above) give you a significant advantage on the 50-question state section. Plan for 1–2 weeks of focused review after completing your 90-hour course before scheduling your exam.
How Long Does It Take to Get a WV Real Estate License?
6 – 8 weeks
Full-time
Studying 6–8 hrs/day
8 – 12 weeks
Part-time
Studying 3–4 hrs/day
3 – 5 months
Casual pace
~8–10 hrs/week
Timeline Breakdown
Top Real Estate Markets in West Virginia
West Virginia's real estate market is concentrated in a handful of metro areas. Here's where the opportunity is:
🎓Morgantown
Home of WVU. Strong rental demand, investor activity, and consistent buyer pool driven by university growth and proximity to Pittsburgh.
🏛️Charleston
State capital and largest city. Diverse buyer market, government employment base, and a mix of historic and new construction inventory.
🚄Martinsburg
Fastest-growing market. Located in the Eastern Panhandle near the DC-Baltimore corridor, attracting commuters priced out of Northern Virginia.
🏥Huntington
Medical and education hub. Marshall University and medical center drive steady demand for rentals and entry-level homes.
🌉Wheeling
Northern WV gateway. Benefits from proximity to Pittsburgh and Ohio; affordable entry-level inventory attracts first-time buyers.
🏭Parkersburg
Ohio River corridor city with affordable median prices and steady industrial employment base supporting local housing demand.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to get a real estate license in West Virginia?
Total costs typically range from $567 to $817. This includes the pre-license course ($399–$649 for online self-paced; up to $809 for The CE Shop Premium), the Pearson VUE exam fee ($96), the background check ($47.25), and the WVREC application fee ($25). Online video courses are the most affordable option — compare all 6 schools on CertLaunch to find the best price.
How long does it take to get a real estate license in West Virginia?
Most candidates complete the process in 2–4 months. The 90-hour pre-license course typically takes 4–8 weeks depending on your schedule. After submission and WVREC approval, you'll receive your exam authorization within a few business days, then sit for the Pearson VUE exam. Part-time students often finish in about 3 months.
What are the requirements to get a real estate license in West Virginia?
You must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or equivalent, complete 90 hours of WVREC-approved pre-license education, pass a state and federal background check, submit two notarized character references from non-related property owners, have a sponsoring broker's notarized signature, pay the $25 application fee, and pass the Pearson VUE licensing exam.
Is the West Virginia real estate exam hard?
The West Virginia real estate exam is moderately challenging. It has two sections: a 100-question national portion (pass with 70/100) and a 50-question state portion (pass with 38/50). Most candidates who thoroughly study their 90-hour course material and complete practice exams are well-prepared. Dedicated study of 1–2 weeks after the course significantly improves pass rates.
Can I take the West Virginia real estate course online?
Yes. WVREC approves several online real estate schools that allow you to complete the 90-hour pre-license requirement online. Options include self-paced courses (Cooke from $399, The CE Shop from $525, Spruce at $550) and live Zoom cohort formats (New River CTC at $540, BridgeValley CTC at $625+). However, the Pearson VUE licensing exam must be taken in person at an authorized testing center.
How much do real estate agents make in West Virginia?
West Virginia real estate agents earn an average of $52,000–$70,000 per year, with top producers in markets like Morgantown and Charleston earning $90,000 or more. The state median home price is approximately $256,800, meaning a 3% commission on a typical transaction yields about $7,700 per side. In high-growth markets like Martinsburg (near the DC metro corridor) and Morgantown, transaction volumes and prices are higher.
Do I need a college degree to get a real estate license in West Virginia?
No. West Virginia does not require a college degree for a real estate salesperson license. A high school diploma or its equivalent is sufficient. The main educational requirement is completing 90 hours of WVREC-approved pre-license coursework, available both online and in the classroom.
What is the best real estate school in West Virginia?
Top WVREC-approved schools include Cooke Real Estate School (from $399, video-based), The CE Shop (from $525, interactive online), Spruce School of Real Estate ($550, self-paced), Realty One, Inc. ($499, classroom/Zoom), New River CTC ($540, Zoom cohorts), and BridgeValley CTC ($625+, online cohorts). Compare all schools on CertLaunch to find the best fit for your budget and learning style.
How do I choose between online and in-person real estate classes in West Virginia?
Online self-paced courses (Cooke $399–$649, CE Shop $525–$809, Spruce $550) are the most flexible and ideal for busy schedules. Live Zoom cohort options (New River CTC $540, BridgeValley CTC $625+) provide structured schedules with live instructor interaction. Realty One ($499) offers classroom plus Zoom in the Charleston area. All formats satisfy the WVREC 90-hour requirement. Note: the Pearson VUE exam must be taken in person regardless of course format.
Can I get my West Virginia real estate license if I have a criminal record?
It depends on the type, severity, and timing of the offense. The WVREC reviews each application individually under West Virginia Code § 30-40-11. Certain convictions — particularly those involving fraud, theft, or crimes of moral turpitude — may delay or disqualify your application. Submit your background check early in the process. If you have concerns, contact the WVREC directly at (304) 558-3555 before enrolling in a course.
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Compare Real Estate Licensing in Other States
See how West Virginia's 90-hour pre-license requirement compares to nearby states — costs, exam format, and income potential.