How to Become a Real Estate Broker in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania real estate broker license is a great opportunity to expand your career options, whether your goal is to become a leader in the field, run your own firm, or boost your income. 

In this guide, we'll go over everything you need to know about becoming a real estate broker in Pennsylvania, including license criteria, education, exam information, expenses, and long-term advantages. Let's get started!

Steps to Become a Real Estate Broker in Pennsylvania

Here’s a quick overview of the steps you’ll need to take to become a licensed real estate broker in Pennsylvania:

1. Meet the Basic Requirements
2. Complete the Required Broker Education
3. Pass the Pennsylvania Real Estate Broker Exam
4. Submit Your Application
5. Maintain and Renew Your Broker License

In order for you to proceed with clarity and confidence in the next phase of your career, we will guide you through each of these steps in detail.

1. Meet the Basic Requirements

To become a licensed real estate broker in Pennsylvania, you must:

• Be at least 21 years old with a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Hold an active Pennsylvania real estate salesperson license in good standing.
• Have 3+ years of full-time real estate experience (or equivalent) and keep records of your transactions.
• Complete 240 hours (16 credits) of approved broker education.
• Pass both the national and state portions of the broker exam.
• Submit all required documents and pay application, exam, and renewal fees to the Pennsylvania Real Estate Commission (PREC).

For a complete and official overview of the education, experience, and documentation requirements to become a licensed real estate broker in Pennsylvania—including accepted course topics, fee schedules, and application instructions—visit the 🔗Broker Licensure Snapshot provided by the Pennsylvania Real Estate Commission.

3. Complete the Required Broker Education

In Pennsylvania, completing 240 hours (16 credits) of authorized real estate education is a requirement for broker license eligibility. The coursework includes both mandatory and elective subjects:

Mandatory Courses (2 credits / 30 hours each):

• Real Estate Brokerage and Office Management: Planning and organizing a brokerage business, operational rules and procedures, records and controls, hiring, selecting, and training staff, and real estate business analysis are all covered in real estate brokerage and office management.
• Real Estate Law: Examines relevant legal subjects from the viewpoint of a Pennsylvania real estate broker, such as state and federal laws, real estate, contract law, real estate transactions, and leases. 

Elective Courses (Totaling 12 credits / 180 hours):

The remaining 6 credits (90 hours) can be from other Commission-approved real estate-related courses such as: 

• Real Estate Sales
• Real Estate Investments
• Real Estate Finance
• Fair Housing, Environmental Issues, and Risk Management
• Pennsylvania Commercial Real Estate Brokerage
• Pennsylvania Valuation of Residential Properties
• Residential & Non-residential Property Management
• Residential Construction & More

Be sure to select courses that align with your career goals and meet the Commission's requirements for a well-rounded education.

Exams and Course Completion:

After completing each qualifying course, the majority of Pennsylvania's broker education programs involve passing a final test. Although this can differ from provider to provider, a minimum passing score is usually about 70%. You will earn a certificate for each course you successfully complete. These credentials are essential to keep on file since you will need to present them when you request to sit for the state broker exam.

Pro Tip:

To ensure you meet all educational requirements, consider enrolling in a comprehensive education program offered by approved providers. These courses often offer flexible schedules, expert instructors, and clear guidance on obtaining your certificates, helping you fulfill your requirements effectively.

For more detailed information on the educational requirements and approved courses, you can refer to the Broker Licensure Snapshot provided by the Pennsylvania Real Estate Commission.

4. Pass the Pennsylvania Real Estate Broker Exam

How to Apply:

The real estate exam is administered by PearsonVue, the authorized testing provider for the Pennsylvania Real Estate Commission. Candidates must apply for a license and authorization through the Pennsylvania Real Estate Commission. Once authorized, you can schedule your exam with Pearson VUE directly. Detailed instructions are available in the Pennsylvania Real Estate Candidate Handbook.

Exam Format: The exam consists of two portions:​

• National Portion: 80 multiple-choice questions covering general real estate practices and principles.
• State Portion: 40 multiple-choice questions focused on Pennsylvania-specific real estate laws and regulations.​

Time Allocation: You are given a total of 3 hours to complete the exam:​

• National Portion: 120 minutes.​
• State Portion: 60 minutes. ​

A minimum score of 75% is required to pass both exams.

If a candidate passes one portion and fails the other, they are only required to retake the failed portion.​

Next Steps: 

Upon passing both sections, you'll receive a Candidate Examination Score Report, which must be included with your broker license application submitted to the Pennsylvania Real Estate Commission.​

5. Submit Your Application to the Pennsylvania Real Estate Commission

After passing both portions of the exam, your next step is to submit your broker license application through the PA Licensing System (PALS). To complete your application, you’ll need:

• Certificates showing you’ve completed 240 hours of approved education
• Documentation of at least three years of real estate experience
• Your official exam score report
• A recent background check
• Payment for the required licensing fee

Be sure all your documents are accurate and up to date—this helps avoid delays and keeps your path to becoming a broker moving forward.

6. Maintain and Renew Your Broker License

Getting your broker license is only the first step. Every two years, you must finish continuing education (CE) to maintain it active so you can operate a business. These courses aren’t just a requirement—they’re a chance to stay sharp, stay compliant, and stay ahead in Pennsylvania’s ever-evolving real estate market.

FAQs about Becoming a Real Estate Broker in Pennsylvania

Here are some of the most common questions aspiring brokers ask about the licensing process in Pennsylvania.

Should You Become a Real Estate Broker in Pennsylvania?

If you're ready to take your real estate career to the next level, becoming a broker could be the perfect next step. As a licensed broker, you’ll unlock new opportunities—from leading your own team to launching your own brokerage. It’s a chance to boost your income, expand your influence, and take on a leadership role in an industry you’re passionate about.

You’ll also build more trust with your network, thanks to your advanced knowledge and credentials. And with Pennsylvania’s diverse real estate market—ranging from rural farmland to bustling cities—you’ll find no shortage of opportunity to grow, specialize, and succeed.

How Fast Can You Get a Broker’s License?

The timeline for earning your broker’s license in Pennsylvania depends on your experience and how quickly you complete the required prerequisites. You’ll need at least three years of active salesperson experience first. After that, most candidates can finish the coursework and pass the exam within a few months if they stay focused and proactive.

How Much Do Real Estate Brokers Make?

Location, clientele, brokerage structure, and market circumstances can all have a big impact on real estate brokers' pay. Due to larger commission splits and the possibility of managing several agents, brokers usually make more money than sales agents.

According to Salary.com, The typical Pennsylvania real estate broker income is $99,988 per year, with the majority of professionals making between $89,050 and $114,000. Top producers may surpass this range, particularly those overseeing several agents or working in high-demand locations.

How Much Does a Real Estate Broker’s License Cost?

The overall cost of getting your Pennsylvania real estate broker’s license will vary depending on your chosen path, but here’s an approximate breakdown based on current information:

• Pre-license education: $500 – $2,000 (depending on the provider and course format)
• Exam fee: $40
• License application fee: $97 – $179.50 (varies by license type)
• Background check/fingerprinting: $20 – $22
• Additional study materials & exam prep: $50 – $200
  
  

These costs can differ, so it’s always best to confirm the latest fees on the Pennsylvania Real Estate Commission website. If you’re looking for a seamless educational experience, be sure to check out our partnered real estate broker program, designed to streamline your preparation and set you up for success.

educational experience, be sure to check out our partnered real estate broker program, which can streamline your preparation and help ensure your success.

What’s the Difference Between Real Estate Brokers and Agents?

A real estate broker takes on everything an agent does, but with added authority and responsibility. Brokers have the power to open their own brokerage, manage other agents, handle escrow accounts, and oversee transactions, all while being held to higher legal and fiduciary standards.

In contrast, real estate agents must work under the supervision of a licensed broker and can’t operate their own business. While agents focus on representing buyers and sellers in transactions, brokers enjoy the freedom and accountability of running their own brokerage or managing a team of agents. It’s a role that offers more control, leadership, and opportunities for growth.

Does Pennsylvania Have a Broker’s License Reciprocity Agreement?

If you're a licensed real estate broker looking to expand your business into Pennsylvania, you're in luck. As of 2025, Pennsylvania has active real estate license reciprocity agreements that make it easier for brokers from select states to get licensed without repeating the entire licensing process.

Which States Have Broker Reciprocity with Pennsylvania?
Licensed brokers from the following states may qualify for a reciprocal Pennsylvania real estate broker license:

• Arkansas
• Georgia
• Louisiana
• Maryland
• Massachusetts
  

Important update for 2025: While Pennsylvania previously included New York, it no longer issues new reciprocal licenses based on a New York license. However, brokers who already hold a Pennsylvania license through New York reciprocity may keep it if they remain in compliance.

Final Thoughts on Becoming a Real Estate Broker in Pennsylvania

Getting your Pennsylvania real estate broker’s license is a powerful step toward higher earning potential, professional freedom, and long-term success in your career. By completing the required education, meeting experience qualifications, and passing the state exam, you’ll position yourself to lead your own brokerage and grow your business on your terms.

Whether you want to train agents or establish your own brand, becoming a licensed broker provides exciting new opportunities.

Ready to take the next step?
Click the “Enroll” button below to join our approved Pennsylvania real estate broker program and start building your future today.