Pennsylvania FAQ

How do I obtain my Real Estate license in the state of Pennsylvania?

To obtain a sales license in the state of Pennsylvania, one must:

• Be 18 years of age or older
• Have successfully completed a total of 5 credits or 75 hours of instruction in the required real estate courses
• Have successfully passed the state licensing exam

How does one obtain the 75-hours of pre-license education?

Completion of one 30-hour, 2 credit course, and one 45-hour, 3 credit course is required to enable one to sit for the state examination. These courses, Real Estate Fundamentals and Real Estate Practice, are available through many institutions, including Howard Hanna’s own Alan Kells School of Real Estate. Costs vary from $430 to $600 depending upon where you take them.

Will my college degree count toward my credit requirement?

A bachelor’s degree with a major in real estate from an accredited college or university will count toward your course requirement.

What is the examination like?

The sales examination currently is comprised of two parts, the general portion and a state-specific portion. The general portion has 80 questions (10 random questions are not scored and are used only to field-test those questions). You will be given 2 hours to complete this section. The state-specific portion has 30 questions. You will be given 1 hour to complete this section. You must correctly answer 75% of the scored questions on both portions before you can apply for a license. Examination questions are multiple choice, with one correct answer and three incorrect responses.

Where and how often is the state sales examination given?

The examination is offered Monday through Saturday at various locations throughout the state.

How does one apply for the exam and what costs are involved?

All testing will be done on a reserved basis. Testing reservations may be made by submitting a registration form, along with the required papers (e.g., school transcripts) to PSI Examination Services. The cost of the exam is $49.00.

Would my Pennsylvania courses or license be honored in other states?

Each state sets its own criteria for licensing and required education. One must contact the real estate commission in a particular state to determine current standing. A call to the Alan Kells School of Real Estate will assist you in obtaining specific answers.

How long does it take to become licensed?

Individual circumstances and processing procedures make a definite answer impossible. Most applicants can be licensed in three months. This time frame would permit one month for examination, license application, and receipt.

What do I need to do to keep my license current once I have it?

To keep your license current, you must complete 14 hours of state-approved continuing education before the renewal date. These courses are available online and through many institutions throughout the state.

How long is my license valid?

To keep your license current, you must complete 14 hours of state-approved continuing education before the renewal date. These courses are available online and through many institutions throughout the state.

What happens to my license if I do not renew it?

Your license will be placed in escrow with the state for a period of five years. If you decide to reactivate it after the renewal period, you will be required to complete the 14 hours of continuing education needed and reapply for your license.

What should I expect from my broker?

Deciding which real estate company to affiliate with is a very important part of the process. Your broker should offer:

• Training. Howard Hanna offers comprehensive training programs for every level.
• Lead-Generating Tools. Howard Hanna has a portfolio of tools designed to drive business to their sales associates. These include our online partnerships as well as our Rapid Response Program, Relocation Department, exclusive marketing programs, website, mobile apps, and more.
• Market Share. Howard Hanna is the #1 real estate company in Pennsylvania and the fourth largest in the country. Our market share, brand, and network provide more opportunities and support for our sales associates.
• Non-Competing Management Team. Howard Hanna has full time, non-competing managers in virtually every office. They make it their sole responsibility to support you in your professional and financial goals, and will be there when you need them. As a new sales associate, you will have a management team that is 100% dedicated