Pennsylvania Broker & Pre-Licensing PA Real Estate Broker License FAQs

Every Question You Need Answered to Get Your Pennsylvania Real Estate Broker License

We're here to help answer any questions you have about upgrading to a Broker License in Pennsylvania. Getting your real estate Broker License in Pennsylvania is a big step forward, so to help, we've collected and answered some frequently asked questions below.

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How do I get a Pennsylvania real estate Broker License?

To become a real estate Broker in Pennsylvania, an applicant must meet these prerequisites:

  • Be at least 21 years of age.
  • Have a High School Diploma or GED.
  • Must have 3 years of experience as a Pennsylvania-licensed salesperson or possess at least 3 years of other experience, education, or both, that the Commission considers the equivalent of 3 years of experience.
  • Be able to provide a recent Criminal History Records Check (CHRC) from the state police or other approved state agency.

Once the prerequisites have been met, an applicant must:

  • Complete 240-hours of commission-approved Broker Pre-Licensing education. (This requirement can also be satisfied if you have a bachelor’s degree with a major in Real Estate from an accredited college, a juris doctor degree from an accredited law school, or completed 240-hours of broker pre-licensure coursework in another jurisdiction that was approved to meet the requirements.)
  • Pass the coursework final exam with a score of 70% or greater.
  • Pass the state-issued Broker License exam.
  • Submit license application to the state.

How long does it take to get a Pennsylvania real estate Broker License online?

The amount of time to get your Pennsylvania Broker real estate license is dependent on a number of factors, though most complete the requirements within a few months. There are a number of steps to complete which include education, collecting all forms, and passing the exam.

How much does it cost to get a Pennsylvania real estate Broker License online?

The fixed costs include:

  • $49.00 for the Broker exam fee
  • $169.50 Broker Sole-Proprietor application and license fee

The variable costs include:

  • Pre-licensing education tuition

Note: These costs are subject to be changed by the state at any time.

What is the difference between a Pennsylvania Salesperson License and Pennsylvania Broker License?

A Salesperson is licensed to conduct business on behalf of a Broker and cannot operate independently of a brokerage. A licensed Salesperson can become a Broker if they complete the required education and examination requirements.  

Can I become a Pennsylvania real estate broker if I have felonies or misdemeanors?

In the state of Pennsylvania, applicants must provide a recent Criminal History Records Check (CHRC) from the state police or other approved state agency. A criminal history doesn’t necessarily disqualify a candidate.  

How old do you have to be to get a Broker License in Pennsylvania?

Applicants must be 21 years of age. 

Is residency in Pennsylvania required to receive a Broker License in the state?

No, applicants do not have to be a resident of Pennsylvania to receive a Pennsylvania Broker License.  

What are the Continuing Education requirements for a real estate broker in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania real estate Brokers are required to complete 14 hours of Continuing Education every biennium (two years). 

Does Pennsylvania have real estate license reciprocity with any other states?

Pennsylvania has mutual reciprocity with Arkansas, Georgia, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, and New York. If you don't live in one of these states, you should check in with the Pennsylvania Department of State's real estate licensing department to ask personalized questions regarding how to secure your PA real estate license.

For more information about how reciprocity works and which states offer it nationwide, visit our Guide to Reciprocity and Portability.

Can I get my Pennsylvania real estate Broker License online?

The required 240-hours of coursework can be completed online. 

What is the average salary of a Pennsylvania real estate broker? 

According to Indeed.com, the average annual salary of a real estate agent in Pennsylvania is $77,831, so theoretically, a Broker would earn more.

Salary data from August 2022*

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