How to become a real estate agent in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania real estate agents are licensed by the Pennsylvania State Real Estate Commission (Department of State). Here is what it takes to work as a licensed real estate agent in Pennsylvania, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Part of the state's website could not be reached when we checked, so some details come from Pennsylvania law and official forms. Confirm them on the official page before you apply.
Who can become a real estate agent in Pennsylvania?
- At least 18 years old
- Complete 75 hours (5 credits) of basic real estate courses within 5 years before passing the exam
- Criminal History Records Check from each state lived or worked in during the past 5 years, dated within 180 days
Pennsylvania real estate agent license requirements
| Licensed by | Pennsylvania State Real Estate Commission (Department of State) |
|---|---|
| License name | Real Estate Salesperson |
| Education or training | 75 hours (5 credits) of basic real estate courses from an accredited college or approved provider; a real estate bachelor's degree or a J.D. also qualifies |
| Exam | Pearson VUE administers the salesperson exam, and you must pass both the General/National and State portions; recent out-of-state licensees take only the State portion. |
| Works under a broker | Yes. A salesperson is employed by a licensed real estate broker. |
| License term | 2 years (biennial), renewal deadline May 31 |
| Continuing education | 14 hours of Commission-approved CE each two-year period, completed by the May 31 renewal deadline; licenses issued within 6 months of the period's end are waived. |
| Reciprocity | Pennsylvania has reciprocity agreements with Arkansas, Georgia, Louisiana, Maryland and Massachusetts. |
How much does it cost?
| Salesperson license application | $25 |
|---|---|
| Initial salesperson license | $72 |
| Biennial salesperson renewal | $96 |
Fees as listed by the state. Schools, courses, exam prep, insurance and equipment cost extra and vary by provider.
Steps to become a real estate agent in Pennsylvania
- Complete 75 hours of basic real estate courses
- Register with Pearson VUE and pass both exam portions
- Get a criminal history records check
- Find an employing broker
- Apply for the salesperson license in PALS with your passing scores
Apply on the official Pennsylvania site
How do you check a real estate agent's license in Pennsylvania?
- Search the name or license number on the official Pennsylvania real estate agent license lookup.
- Check that the status is active and the name matches the person or company you're hiring.
- Ask how long they've been licensed and whether any complaints or discipline are on record.