VanEd Online Real Estate School Frequently Asked Questions

General questions about how to get a real estate license and become a real estate agent or REALTOR®.

How do I get a real estate license?

The process for earning a real estate license varies by state, but most follow a similar general path. Here are the typical steps:

1. Complete Required Pre-License Education 
Each state sets a minimum number of education hours that must be completed through an approved real estate school.

2. Pass the State Licensing Exam 
You’ll need to pass both the national and state-specific portions of the real estate exam.

3. Undergo a Background Check 
Most states require a background check or fingerprinting as part of the application process.

4. Apply for Your License 
Once you pass the exam and meet all other requirements, you can apply for your real estate license through your state’s Division of Real Estate.

5. Work Under a Licensed Brokerage 
In most states, newly licensed agents must work under the supervision of a licensed broker for a minimum period—often two years—before becoming eligible to operate independently.

What other fees are involved in getting a license?

Your VanEd course fee includes:

• Access to your online pre-license course
• Comprehensive Exam Prep tools
• Instructor support throughout your learning

In addition to the course fee, you’ll be responsible for a few other required steps and costs:

• Background check (varies by state)
• State Exam fee, payable to the approved testing center
• Licensing fee, payable to your state’s Division of Real Estate
• Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance, which many states require before issuing a license

These fees are standard across the industry and ensure you meet all the qualifications to become a licensed real estate professional.

I'm currently licensed but I'd like to add a license from another state. How do I know which states are reciprocal with mine?

If you're currently licensed and want to add a license in a different state, the process will depend on that state's reciprocity or license recognition rules.

Each state has its own policies, and some make the transfer process easier than others. To determine your eligibility, you’ll need to consider:

• How long you’ve held your current license
• Whether your license is active, inactive, or expired
• The type of license you hold (e.g., Salesperson, Broker, Broker Associate)

Once you have this information, contact the Division of Real Estate in the state where you want to get licensed. They’ll outline what’s required—this could range from submitting proof of licensure to taking additional education or an exam.

How do I reactivate an inactive or expired real estate license?

The process for reactivating an inactive or expired real estate license varies by state. Requirements often depend on:

• How long your license has been inactive or expired
• The type of license you held
• Your state’s specific rules and renewal timelines

To find out what steps you need to take, it's best to contact your state’s Division of Real Estate. They can provide accurate, up-to-date guidance based on your individual situation.

Is a REALTOR® the same as a real estate agent?

Not exactly. A real estate agent is a licensed professional who helps clients buy, sell, or rent properties. A REALTOR®, on the other hand, is a real estate agent who is also a member of the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR). This membership requires adherence to NAR’s strict Code of Ethics.

So, while all REALTORS® are real estate agents, not all real estate agents are REALTORS®.

To learn more about REALTORS® and the NAR, visit their official website.  

Learn about the required state exam that you must pass to get licensed.

What Is the Real Estate Exam?

To earn your initial real estate license, most states require you to pass a two-part licensing exam:

• A National portion, which covers general real estate principles and practices
• A State-specific portion, which focuses on your state’s laws, regulations, and procedures

Both sections are fully covered in VanEd’s pre-license coursework, ensuring you’re well-prepared for exam day.

Can I take the Real Estate Exam online?

Most states require that you take the Licensing Exam in person at a state-approved testing center. VanEd will provide complete instructions and the paperwork you need to find the testing center closest to you and get scheduled.

What happens once I pass the Exam?

Hooray! VanEd will guide you through the next step by providing either the state license application or clear instructions from your state’s Division of Real Estate. You'll have everything you need to complete the licensing process and make it official.

What happens if I fail the Exam?

While it's uncommon, not passing the state exam on the first try can be discouraging. However, you’ll typically be allowed to retake the exam right away, depending on your state’s regulations.

If this happens, don’t worry—you’ll still have full access to your course materials and Exam Prep tools to help you study and regain confidence. Our instructors are also available to help you review any areas where you may need extra support.

That said, if you’ve been consistently scoring 80% or higher in your coursework and have completed the practice exams with strong results, you’re well-positioned for success on your first attempt! 

Questions concerning online enrollment, payment, course access, and more.

How long does the course take and how long do I have to complete?

Course Pace and Completion Time

VanEd’s online courses are fully self-paced, allowing you to progress according to your own schedule. For licensing coursework, we generally recommend dedicating 10–15 hours per week. At that pace:

A 90-hour course package can be completed in approximately 5–8 weeks

A 168-hour course package may take about 10–12 weeks

However, you're free to move faster or slower depending on your availability and learning style.

Access Period

You’ll have one year from the date of enrollment to complete your courses, unless otherwise noted. If additional time is needed beyond that, a small course reactivation fee will apply.

Note for CE Courses: Please be aware that many states place limits on the number of continuing education (CE) hours that can be completed in a single day. Be sure to check your state’s specific regulations.

How does the course work online?

Our online courses are very user-friendly. You'll have the freedom to make your own schedule. Log in and out as often as you like, at any time. You'll log in to our secure site with your username and password (established once you enroll), and in your Student Account under "Active Courses," you'll be able to open each course and work through it at your pace—reading material, taking multiple choice quizzes and exams, and completing exercises. Exams can be retaken, so you don't risk failing out of class!

Can I access the course from more than one computer or device?

Yes! Our courses are web-based, so you can access them from any computer or device with internet access, whether it's a Mac or PC.

What if I have questions while I am working?

Online Q&As are available 24/7, where you can review past questions or post new ones directly inside any course for an instructor to answer via email. You may also reach instructors by phone and email during VanEd business hours, 7 AM – 7 PM CST.

How do I get credit for completing a course?

Upon completion of any CE course or licensing package, a course certificate or state form will be available to print online in your student account. States have different processes once you complete your education, and full instructions will be available online in your student account. VanEd will report all education completions to State Commissions or Boards that require it.

Are there payment plans or financial aid?

As a vocational school, VanEd does not offer financial aid directly. However, we’ve partnered with Sezzle to provide flexible, interest-free payment options for your real estate education. With Sezzle’s Buy Now, Pay Later financing, you can enroll in comprehensive course packages without paying the full cost upfront. Multiple payment plans are available to help break up the course fee over two or three months using a credit card or check. You’ll be able to select your preferred payment plan directly on the purchase screen when enrolling. This partnership makes it easier and more affordable to start your real estate career with VanEd.

Used the VanEd CE Tracker?

The CE tracker tool from the previous system will no longer be available in the new LMS. If you’ve used it in the past, please note that this feature is not continuing. For more information about Continuing Education requirements and tracking, visit the National Association of Realtors website. 

How to get help with computer questions and other technical support.

What if I need technical assistance?

Technical support is always available via phone, email, and online chat during VanEd's business hours. Email us after hours with any concerns, and our technical staff will address your questions as quickly as possible.

What devices and browsers are supported?

VanEd courses can be used on all major operating systems and devices. This includes Windows and Apple computers of all types, laptops, tablets (iPad, Android, or Windows), smartphones, smart TVs, and even smartwatches.

Our learning management system (LMS) is supported on all major browsers, including Google Chrome, Safari, Internet Explorer, Edge, Samsung Internet, Firefox, Opera, and UC Browser. 

Questions about continuing education courses and maintaining/renewing your real estate license.

Where can I locate my CE course completion certificates?

For classes completed online, certificates are available to print from student accounts anytime. For classroom courses with credit delivered by VanEd, students should receive an email notice.

How do I know what CE I am required to take for my license?

In all states where VanEd offers coursework, CE requirements will be listed on the state pages for continuing education. For guidance on tracking your CE requirements, we recommend reviewing resources from the National Association of Realtors.

Your state's Division of Real Estate will list the requirements as well, and what you need to make up any delinquencies.

VIEW VANED'S CONTINUING EDUCATION PROGRAMS >

Help, my license expires tomorrow! Can I get my CE completed in time online?

Most states have rules outlining how many hours of CE can be completed by licensees in one day (Colorado allows up to 8 hours, for example) and some states have rules blocking students from completing an online course in less than 24 hours. It's important to be aware of the rules that apply to your license and stay on top of the required hours—you may be able to squeeze some coursework in at the last minute, but it is always advisable to be prepared ahead of time!

I've missed my deadline for completing some mandatory CE. What do I do now?

Mistakes can happen, and more often than not, there is a solution if you have missed some required CE as part of your license cycle. The options vary by state. Your state's Division of Real Estate will outline the options you have, and it may be in your best interest to contact them directly if you are unsure.

How Can I Track My CE Hours for My Colorado License?

With the transition to the new LMS, the CE Tracker tool previously on the VanEd dashboard is no longer available. We understand that tracking Continuing Education is important—especially for Colorado license holders.

To check your CE completion status and license details, we recommend using the Colorado Division of Real Estate License Lookup Tool.  

This official resource allows you to view your license status, CE history, and any outstanding requirements.

For step-by-step instructions on how to use this tool, you can refer to our blog post: How to Look Up Your Real Estate License in Colorado  

How do I get a real estate appraisal license?

How do I earn an appraisal license?

Most states follow a three-tiered licensing system for appraisers:

• Licensed Appraiser
• Certified Residential Appraiser
• Certified General Appraiser

Each level has its own requirements for education and documented training hours.

Here’s a general path to becoming a Licensed Appraiser (the first tier):

• Start with Education: 
  Trainee appraisers begin with 75 hours of qualifying education, which includes:
  • Basic Appraisal Principles
  • Basic Appraisal Procedures
  • The 15-hour USPAP course
• Gain Experience: 
  You’ll need to complete 2,500 hours of supervised experience in the field.
• Complete Additional Coursework: 
  Before you're eligible for the licensing exam, you’ll also need another 75 hours of coursework.
• Pass a Background Check: 
  A background check is required at all levels of licensure.
• College-Level Education (for Higher Licenses): 
  To move up to Certified Residential or Certified General, you’ll need to meet college education requirements—usually a bachelor’s degree or equivalent.

Tip: Licensing rules can vary, so it’s a good idea to check your state appraisal board’s website for the most current requirements.

Explore your education options here. 

Learn about VanEd

Why VanEd?

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Do you have a referral program?

Visit VanEd Real Estate School Affiliate Program for all the information on becoming a VanEd affiliate.

Have other questions?

Feel free to email us anytime at [email protected]

Used the VanEd CE Tracker?

The CE tracker tool from the previous system will no longer be available in the new LMS. If you’ve used it in the past, please note that this feature is not continuing. For more information about Continuing Education requirements and tracking, visit the National Association of Realtors website.