REAL ESTATE RESOURCES

How to Become a Real Estate Agent in Pennsylvania

Kaplan Real Estate Education

If you're considering starting a real estate career in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, Erie, or any other city in the state, you'll need to earn a Pennsylvania real estate license. To earn your real estate license in Pennsylvania, you must be at least 18 years old, complete 75 hours of approved education, complete a background check, and pass the state and national real estate licensing exams. While the process to become a real estate agent is similar in most states, each state has unique steps that must be adhered to.

The six steps to becoming a Pennsylvania real estate agent are as follows:

Step 1: Be at Least 18 Years of Age

In addition to being at least 18 years of age, you must also be a US citizen or permanent resident alien and show proof of high school graduation or equivalent.

Step 2: Complete Your Required Education and Exam Prep

You must successfully complete 75 hours of approved real estate education. Complete the 75-hour requirement online with our approved education.

75-Hour Licensing with Master Exam Prep Package
30-Hour Real Estate Fundamentals
45-Hour Real Estate Practices

View Licensing Packages

Step 3: Complete a Background Check

You must obtain a Pennsylvania report of your criminal history. Pennsylvania background checks may be obtained on the PATCH website or from the Pennsylvania State Police Central Repository: 1800 Elmerton Ave, Harrisburg, PA 17110-9758; phone (888-783-7972).

Step 4: Take the Pennsylvania and National Licensing Exam

Apply for the exam on the PALS website. Successfully pass both the Pennsylvania and National portions of the PSI Salesperson Real Estate Exam. Come fully prepared on exam day with Kaplan's exam prep QBank.

Step 5: Find a Sponsoring Broker

In order to practice real estate, you need the sponsorship of a licensed real estate broker. There are many different brokers out there, so find the best fit for you.

Step 6: Apply for Your Pennsylvania State License

Complete, sign, and submit the licensing application provided by the Pennsylvania Real Estate Commission along with the required fee of $107. More information can be found on the PALS website.

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Wouldn’t it be great if you could sit down with a room full of successful real estate professionals and ask them for career advice?

We asked several accomplished real estate professionals what they wish they knew before they earned their license and started their career, and what they thought all aspiring real estate professionals should know. We put all of their advice into a value-packed eBook.

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