Whether you are looking to change careers or complement your existing one, real estate sales is potentially a very rewarding opportunity. More and more, individuals are experiencing success in this growing industry and maybe it’s time for you to join them.

To practice real estate (outside of the purchase or sale of your own property) in the state of Pennsylvania, an individual must first obtain a license from the state. Successfully completing the licensure process requires a number of objectives, including:

1. Completion of 60 hours of prescribed education in Real Estate Fundamentals (30 hrs.) and Real Estate Practice (30 hrs.). Note that these courses can be taken in a traditional classroom environment or online. An individual must pass an exam at the end of each course to pass. (Click here for Traditional Classroom courses. Click here for Online courses)

2. Passage of the State-required Real Estate Exam. Separate from the exams at the end of the Fundamentals and Practice class, this exam includes two sections – a general real estate section and a state-specific section. (Click here for Exam Prep course information)

3. Provide a Criminal History Record Information Report from the state where the applicant resides completed by the State Police. This report must be dated within 90 days of application. Pennsylvania background checks may be obtained at https://epatch.state.pa.us or from Pennsylvania State Police Central Repository (717-783-5593).

4. Complete the Pennsylvania Salesperson Initial Standard License Application and enclose payment. Other documents to be included with the application are: transcripts for the 60 hours of education, notices from the testing service evidencing a passing grade on the state-required exam, and the Criminal History Record Information Report.

Already licensed in another state?

If the answer is yes, you may be eligible for a reciprocal license. Currently, the state maintains reciprocity agreements with Arkansas, Georgia, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York and West Virginia. Click here for more information about reciprocity.

Applicants who currently are licensed in a state other than the ones listed above (or have held a license in the last 5 years) must complete the state-specific portion of the exam and provide proof of the other licensure when completing the License Application. They also must submit a Criminal History Record Information Report from the state where the applicant resides.

NOTE: The definitive source for information on real estate licensure is the Pennsylvania Real Estate Commission. Additional questions can be forwarded to Gail Parke at gparke@suburbanwestrealtors.com or 866-495-SWRA.

MORE INFORMATION  

Why Choose a Career in Real Estate?
Pre-License Classes – Traditional Classroom
Pre-License Classes - Online
Salesperson, Associate Broker, Broker License Renewal Requirements
Pennsylvania Real Estate Commission