Question: How can I tell if someone has a license to practice real estate?

Answer: The Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR) has a Web site that allows you to verify the licensee status, type of licensee, realty firm and address of other real estate agents and brokers in Virginia.

The Web site is at: http://www.dpor.virginia.gov/licenselookup/

Remember to check the box marked Individuals under the section marked Real Estate to verify real estate licensees. Anyone can access the Web site and check to see if a specific person has a real estate license. If you do not find the individual's name on the Web site, you should contact DPOR at 804/367-8526 to inform the state licensing authority. Only DPOR can take action against individuals who participate in real estate transactions without a license.