Pennslyvania Real Estate Licenses
This guide provides a thorough overview of obtaining a Pennsylvania real estate license, covering all the essential steps and real estate continuing education requirements.
It’s designed for everyone in the state, with special information for major cities like Philadelphia (PA).
We highlight the best real estate classes and online courses available, ensuring you have access to quality education and training throughout Pennsylvania.
Don't Become a Realtor If...
If you’re seriously interested in getting your real estate license, here are some great additional resources:
Requirements
To become a real estate agent in Pennsylvania, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent (GED)
Like all US states, Pennsylvania allows out-of-state applicants, so you do not need to reside there to become licensed as a real estate agent.
Pre-Licensing Education
Complete 75 hours of pre-license education through courses approved by the Pennsylvania Real Estate Commission. These courses include:
- Real Estate Fundamentals (30 hours)
- Real Estate Practice (45 hours)
Examination
Pennsylvania Real Estate Exam Details
Exam Structure
- Total Questions: 110 multiple-choice questions
- National Portion: 80 questions
- State-Specific Portion: 30 questions
- Time Limit: 3 hours total (2 hours for the national portion, 1 hour for the state portion)
- Passing Score: 75% on each section
Registration and Fees
- Exam Fee: $49, payable when scheduling the exam through PSI Services.
- Registration: After completing your 75 hours of pre-licensing education, submit your application to the Pennsylvania Real Estate Commission. Upon approval, you can register for the exam through PSI Services.
Identification Documents
- Required ID: Candidates must bring two forms of identification on exam day, including a government-issued photo ID with a signature (e.g., driver’s license or passport).
Exam Difficulty and Passing Rates
The Pennsylvania Real Estate Exam is considered moderately challenging, with a passing rate of around 60%. Adequate preparation for both the national and state portions is recommended.
Required Forms and Documents
- Pre-License Education Certificate
- Proof of completing 75 hours of pre-license education from an accredited provider is required.
- Initial License Application
- Submit your initial license application through the Pennsylvania Real Estate Commission after completing pre-licensing education.
- Application Fee
- The fee is $107, payable when submitting your license application.
Background Check
Submit fingerprints for a criminal background check through a vendor approved by the Pennsylvania State Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). This is required to ensure you meet the ethical standards required for licensure.
Application
After passing the exam and completing the background check, submit your license application to the Pennsylvania Real Estate Commission.
- Application Fee: $107
Post-Licensing Education
14-Hour Post-Licensing Course
- Timeframe: New real estate licensees must complete 14 hours of post-licensing education within the first two years of obtaining their license.
- Course Content:
- Real Estate Law and Regulations
- Contracts and Negotiations
- Agency Relationships
- Ethics in Real Estate
- Risk Management
Approved Providers
- The post-licensing course must be taken through an education provider approved by the Pennsylvania Real Estate Commission.
Submission
- Proof of course completion must be submitted to the Pennsylvania Real Estate Commission within the first two years to keep your license active.
Continuing Education
Total Hours Required: 14 hours of continuing education every two years to renew their license.
- Core Courses (3.5 hours):
- Pennsylvania Rules and Regulations Update
- Fair Housing Practices
- Elective Courses (10.5 hours):
- Real Estate Finance and Mortgages
- Property Management and Leasing
- Environmental Issues and Home Inspections
Approved Providers
- Continuing education must be completed through an approved education provider listed on the Pennsylvania Real Estate Commission website.
Submission
- Proof of completion must be submitted through the Commission’s online portal.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
- Inactive License: If the CE requirements are not met within the two-year period, your license will become inactive, and you will be unable to practice real estate.
- Reactivation: To reactivate your license, complete the missing continuing education hours and submit the necessary proof to the Pennsylvania Real Estate Commission.
Pennsylvania Real Estate Education Options
Online Options
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1. The CE Shop – Best Budget Course
The CE Shop is the most affordable option for real estate education in PA, providing a solid self-paced curriculum.
Pros
- Most affordable: The 30% discount makes it the cheapest option.
- Self-paced: Flexibility for students to study at their own speed.
Cons
- Mixed reviews: Some students report engagement issues and customer service problems.
- No live instruction: Entirely self-paced learning.
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2. Kaplan Real Estate – Best Overall Course
Kaplan Real Estate offers a structured learning experience for Pennslyvania students, with live online and self-paced formats.
Pros
- Multiple formats: Offers live online classes and self-paced options.
- Experienced instructors: Known for delivering high-quality education.
Cons
- Higher cost: More expensive than budget options, but justified for quality.
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4. Colibri Real Estate
Colibri Real Estate provides flexible learning formats, including self-paced courses and live webinars, suitable for PA students.
Pros
- Flexible formats: Self-paced and live webinars available.
- Pass guarantee: Refund if you don’t pass the state exam.
Cons
- Additional costs: Study resources may increase the total price.
Up to 15% off with our Colibri Real Estate discount link.
In-Person Options by Major Cities
Philadelphia:
- Temple University Real Estate Institute: Offers in-person pre-licensing and continuing education courses.
- Polley Associates: Provides in-person real estate courses, including pre-licensing education.
Pittsburgh:
- Hondros College: Offers in-person pre-licensing and continuing education classes.
- Community College of Allegheny County: Provides in-person real estate education.
Harrisburg:
- Harrisburg Area Community College: Offers a variety of in-person educational courses for pre-licensing and continuing education.
Reciprocity
Full Reciprocity
Pennsylvania offers full reciprocity with the following states:
- Arkansas
- Georgia
- Louisiana
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- New York
If you hold an active real estate license in one of these states, you can apply for a Pennsylvania real estate license without additional education or examination requirements. You must submit an application and pass a background check.
Partial Reciprocity
Pennsylvania offers partial reciprocity with other states. If you hold an active real estate license in another state, you may qualify for a waiver of some of the pre-licensing education requirements.
You will still need to pass the Pennsylvania state-specific portion of the real estate exam and fulfill other state-specific requirements.
For detailed information and required forms, visit the Pennsylvania Real Estate Commission Reciprocity Information.
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Broker's License
To become a real estate broker in Pennsylvania, you must:
- Have at least three years of active real estate salesperson experience within the last five years
- Complete 240 hours of broker pre-license education
- Pass the Pennsylvania Real Estate Broker Examination
- Submit a broker license application to the Pennsylvania Real Estate Commission
Criminal Record
The Pennsylvania Real Estate Commission reviews applications from individuals with a criminal record on a case-by-case basis.
If you have a felony or other serious criminal conviction, you may still apply for a real estate license, but the Commission will consider the nature of the crime, the time elapsed since the conviction, and evidence of rehabilitation.
Crimes involving fraud, theft, or moral turpitude are particularly scrutinized. It’s recommended to contact the Pennsylvania Real Estate Commission directly to discuss your specific circumstances and determine your eligibility.
Cost Breakdown
Item | Cost Range |
|---|---|
Total | $756 – $1,356 |
Pre-License Education | $400 – $700 |
Exam Fee | $49 |
Background Check | $50 – $100 |
Application Fee | $107 |
Post-Licensing Education | $100 – $200 |
Continuing Education | $50 – $200 per cycle |
Resources and Contacts
- Pennsylvania Real Estate Commission: (717) 783-3658 | RA-REALESTATE@pa.gov
- Street Address: 2525 N 7th Street, Harrisburg, PA 17110
- Mailing Address: P.O. Box 2649, Harrisburg, PA 17105-2649
- Telephone: (833) 367-2762
- Email: ra-realestate@pa.gov
- License Information
- Renewal and Continuing Education Information
- Exam Information
- PSI Examination Services: (800) 733-9267
Document Checklist
- Proof of age (ID, birth certificate)
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident status
- High school diploma or GED certificate
- Completion certificates for 75 hours of pre-license courses
- Exam pass notification from PSI
- Fingerprint submission and background check confirmation
- Completed application form for the Pennsylvania Real Estate Commission
- Payment for application fee
Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Real Estate Agent in Pennsylvania
- Meet Basic Requirements: Ensure you are at least 18 years old, a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, and have a high school diploma or equivalent (GED).
- Complete Pre-License Education: Enroll in and complete 75 hours of pre-license courses approved by the Pennsylvania Real Estate Commission.
- Schedule and Pass the Examination: Register for the Pennsylvania Real Estate Salesperson Examination through PSI. Study for and pass the exam, ensuring you achieve a minimum score of 75% on both the national and state-specific portions. Pay the exam fee of $49.
- Submit to a Background Check: Arrange for fingerprinting and a criminal background check through a Pennsylvania State Police-approved vendor. Ensure all required documentation is submitted to the Pennsylvania Real Estate Commission.
- Submit Your Application: Complete and submit the real estate license application to the Pennsylvania Real Estate Commission, including the application fee of $107.
- Find a Sponsoring Broker: To activate your license, find a licensed Pennsylvania real estate broker to work under. This is required for both temporary and permanent licensure.
- Complete Post-Licensing Education: Within the first two years of obtaining your license, complete 14 hours of post-licensing education.
- Begin Your Real Estate Career: Once your license is issued, start your career as a licensed real estate agent in Pennsylvania.
- Complete Continuing Education: Every two years, complete 14 hours of continuing education, including mandatory and elective courses, to maintain and renew your license.
Pennsylvania Real Estate Agent Salary
In Pennsylvania, real estate agents earn an average salary of $76,018 per year, with a common range between $30,000 and $140,000.
The median salary is around $70,000, reflecting a fairly even distribution of earnings.
Top agents, particularly in major markets like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, can earn over $160,000 annually. Pennsylvania’s real estate market offers diverse opportunities, from urban centers to rural areas.
The state’s moderate cost of living enhances the attractiveness of these earnings, making it an appealing market for agents to establish their careers.
FAQs
Can I become a real estate agent in Pennsylvania if I have a felony?
The Pennsylvania Real Estate Commission reviews applications from individuals with a criminal record on a case-by-case basis. Certain felonies, particularly those involving fraud or moral turpitude, may disqualify you. Contact the Commission for specific inquiries.
How long does it take to become a real estate agent in Pennsylvania?
It typically takes 3-6 months to complete the pre-license education, pass the exam, and obtain your license.
What is the cost to become a real estate agent in Pennsylvania?
The total estimated cost ranges from $656 to $1,156, including education, exam fees, background checks, and application fees.
Does Pennsylvania have reciprocity with other states?
Pennsylvania has full reciprocity with several states and partial reciprocity with others. You may need to pass the Pennsylvania state-specific portion of the real estate exam and meet other requirements.
Summary
Becoming a real estate agent in Pennsylvania involves meeting educational requirements, passing an exam, undergoing a background check, and completing continuing education.
By following these steps and utilizing the provided resources, you can successfully start and maintain your real estate career in Pennsylvania.
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