Virginia Business Broker License — Requirements & M&A Advisor Guide 2025
$
$
Virginia Business Broker & M&A Advisor License Requirements
Becoming a licensed business broker or M&A advisor in Virginia requires meeting specific education, exam, and experience standards. This guide covers every requirement, fee, and regulatory pathway for Virginia as of 2025–2026.
License Type Required in Virginia Real estate broker license required. Virginia business brokers operate under the Real Estate Broker License, regulated by the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR).
Education Requirements
Pre-license (salesperson): 60 hours of approved coursework
Experience Required 3 years as licensed salesperson/broker.
Exam & Licensing Fees
Exam: PSI national + Virginia state exam
Application fee: $170
License fee: $170
Exam note: Virginia's 180 hrs broker requirement is above national average
Continuing Education 16 hours per 2 years required to maintain active Virginia broker license. Include mandatory ethics and law topics.
M&A Advisor Requirements in Virginia Virginia (Northern Virginia / D.C. metro, Richmond) has significant M&A activity in government contracting, defense, and technology. Business brokerage uses the DPOR real estate broker license. Virginia State Corporation Commission's Division of Securities oversees M&A securities. Government contracting M&A advisors often need FINRA registration due to deal complexity and equity components.
Industry Certifications (Optional but Career-Critical)
CBI (Certified Business Intermediary) — International Business Brokers Association (IBBA)
M&AMI (M&A Master Intermediary) — IBBA, for deals $5M+
CMAP (Certified M&A Professional) — AM&AA
Series 79 (Investment Banking Representative) — FINRA, for larger M&A advisory
Series 82 (Private Securities Offerings Representative) — FINRA
How to Get Started as a Business Broker in Virginia 1. Complete 60 hrs pre-license coursework 2. Pass the PSI national + Virginia state exam 3. Obtain your Virginia salesperson/associate license 4. Work under a licensed broker for 3 years as licensed salesperson/broker 5. Complete 180 hrs broker pre-license coursework and pass the broker exam 6. Pursue CBI certification via IBBA to establish market credibility