Virginia · State Reference
Virginia Auctioneer
License Requirements
To become a licensed auctioneer in Virginia, you must be at least 18 years old, hold a high school diploma or equivalent, complete auction school, pass a written exam, and obtain a $10,000 surety bond.
Requirements Checklist
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Must hold a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Must demonstrate good moral character, assessed through a background check. A history of fraud, embezzlement, or other financial crimes can result in disqualification.
- Must complete Virginia approved auction school.
- Must pass the Virginia auction license exam.
- Must obtain a $10,000 surety bond.
- Must provide a criminal background check through both the Virginia State Police and the FBI.
Step by Step Process
- Complete auction school.
- Register for and pass the auction license exam.
- Obtain your $10,000 surety bond.
- Complete your background check through the Virginia State Police and FBI.
- Submit your application with the required fee to the Virginia Auctioneers Board.
- Receive your license.
Timeline and Cost
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application fee | $25, non refundable |
| Examination fee | $40 |
| License renewal fee | $55, every 2 years |
| Surety bond | $10,000 bond (bond cost approximately $100 to $200) |
| Continuing education | 6 hours every 2 years |
Fees are set by DPOR and are subject to change.
License Renewal and Continuing Education
Virginia requires 6 hours of continuing education during each 24 month licensing cycle to qualify for renewal. The standard renewal fee for an Individual Virginia Auctioneer License is $55 every 2 years. The Auction Firm License renewal fee is $65.
Military Spouse Accommodations
Virginia's Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation has established commendable and supportive pathways for military spouses.
Expedited processing is available for spouses of active duty military personnel assigned to a duty station in Virginia, through a dedicated Military Spouse Expedited License Application.
A temporary, non renewable 12 month license is available for certain military spouses who are already licensed in another state but need more time to meet Virginia specific requirements.
Up to a five year extension on license renewal requirements is available for active duty military personnel and their spouses who served outside the U.S., along with certain diplomatic service members and veterans.
Reciprocity
Virginia has reciprocal agreements with a number of states, including Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and West Virginia.
Source: National Auctioneer License Law Officials Association.
Ready to become a Virginia licensed auctioneer? Missouri Auction School's Virginia course covers the auction school path in full.
View the Virginia CourseSources
- Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation, Auctioneers Board
- Code of Virginia Section 54.1-603, license required
- Code of Virginia Section 54.1-603.1, continuing education requirement
- Code of Virginia Section 54.1-2103, real estate license exemptions
- Code of Virginia Section 8.2-328, Commercial Code, sale by auction
- 18 VAC 25-21, Auctioneers Board Regulations
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to get an auctioneer license in Virginia?
Around $65 total in state fees, $25 for the application and $40 for the exam, plus your surety bond and education costs.
Do I need to take an exam to become a licensed auctioneer in Virginia?
Yes.
Do I need a bond to get licensed in Virginia?
Yes, a $10,000 surety bond.
Does Virginia offer any accommodations for military spouses?
Yes, genuinely substantial ones: expedited processing, a temporary 12 month license option for spouses already licensed elsewhere, and up to a five year extension on renewal requirements for military members and spouses who served outside the U.S.
How often do I need to renew my Virginia license, and are there continuing education requirements?
The license is good for 2 years. 6 hours of continuing education every 2 years are required for renewal.