How to Become a Real Estate Agent in Pennsylvania: A Step-by-Step Licensing Guide for 2025 

Pursuing a career as a real estate agent in Pennsylvania offers a flexible and potentially lucrative path in the real estate industry. Whether you’re starting fresh or switching careers, understanding the licensing requirements, educational steps, and application process is essential. Below is a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the journey to obtaining your Pennsylvania real estate license. 

Step 1. Verify Eligibility Requirements 

•  Before enrolling in real estate courses or applying for your license, confirm that you meet the Pennsylvania Real Estate Commission’s eligibility criteria:
  • Age requirement: You must be at least 18 years old. 
  • Educational background: A high school diploma or GED is required. 

Step 2. Complete the Required Pre-Licensing Education 

To qualify for the real estate salesperson license in Pennsylvania, candidates must complete 75 hours of approved real estate education, broken down into: 

• Real Estate Fundamentals: 30 hours. 
• Real Estate Practice: 45 hours. 

These courses must be taken from a Pennsylvania State Real Estate Commission-approved education provider. 

Step 3. Pass the Pennsylvania Real Estate Salesperson Examination 

After completing the educational requirements, you must pass the licensing examination, which consists of two sections: 

• National Portion: 80 questions 
• State Portion: 30 questions 

The final exam is proctored by a disinterested third party. This means that family, friends, coworkers, or supervisors cannot act as proctors. Online proctoring is available, but it must be through an approved provider.  

Step 4. Obtain a Sponsoring Broker 

To activate your license and legally work as a real estate agent, you must affiliate with a licensed Pennsylvania real estate broker. Your sponsoring broker will provide guidance, resources, and access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) as you begin your real estate career. 

Step 5. Complete a Background Check 

A criminal background check is required through the Pennsylvania Access to Criminal History (PATCH) system. Your criminal record must be dated within 90 days of submitting your application to the Pennsylvania Department of State. 

Step 6. Submit Your License Application 

Once you’ve passed the exam and chosen a broker, submit your application through the Pennsylvania Licensing System (PALS): 

• Create a PALS account 
• Upload education certificates and background check 
• Pay the required license application fee 

Step 7. Fulfill Post-Licensing Education Requirements 

New licensees must complete 14 hours of post-licensing education within their first two years of licensure. This includes:  

• A 7-hour general module 
• A 7-hour residential or commercial module, depending on your practice area 

This is separate from continuing education requirements and must be completed to retain an active license. 

Additional Considerations for Real Estate Agents in Pennsylvania 

• Reciprocity: Pennsylvania has real estate license reciprocity agreements with certain states. If you’re already licensed elsewhere, you may qualify for a reciprocal real estate license. Check with the PA Real Estate Commission for a list of participating states. 
• Continuing Education (CE): To maintain your license, you must complete 14 hours of continuing education every two years during your renewal cycle. 
• Education Certificate Validity: Upon completing your courses, your education certificate will be activated after proctor verification and remains valid for 10 years. 

Start Your Real Estate Career in Pennsylvania 

By completing each step and adhering to the state’s real estate licensing guidelines, you’ll be prepared to launch a successful real estate career in Pennsylvania.