Real Estate Agent Permit Requirements in Philadelphia, PA

Complete permit and license guide for starting a real estate agent in Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania.

Updated 2026-03-15 4 stops $500–$1,400 est. 4–14 weeks to obtain license and begin practice
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Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. This guide was compiled from public and official sources (last updated ) and has not yet been independently source-verified — confirm each requirement before acting on it.

Federal — start here

1 stop

  1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

    Required if you operate as an LLC, corporation, or have employees. Free from the IRS. Even sole proprietors may benefit from obtaining an EIN to keep business and personal finances separate.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

State of Pennsylvania

2 stops

  1. Pennsylvania Real Estate Commission — Salesperson License

    Pennsylvania requires real estate salesperson applicants to complete 75 hours of pre-licensing education from an approved school, pass the Pennsylvania Real Estate Salesperson Exam (administered by PSI), and apply to the Pennsylvania Real Estate Commission. Must work under a licensed Pennsylvania broker.

    Official government source

    $49 (exam fee) + $107 (license fee) + $300–$600 (pre-licensing education)4–12 weeks

  2. Errors & Omissions (E&O) Insurance

    Most real estate brokerages require agents to carry Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance, which protects against claims of negligent acts or omissions in real estate transactions. Some states mandate it; most brokerages require it. Coverage typically starts at $100,000 per occurrence.

    Official government source

    $300–$800/year1–5 business days

City of Philadelphia / Philadelphia County

1 stop

  1. Philadelphia — Business Privilege License (if operating a brokerage)

    Individual real estate salespersons do not need a separate Philadelphia business license. If operating a brokerage in Philadelphia, a Business Privilege License from the Department of Revenue is required.

    Official government source

    $300 initial (brokerage only)2–4 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $500–$1,400 · 4–14 weeks to obtain license and begin practice

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Official Sources

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