Can Real Estate Agents Sell Insurance? Pennsylvania's Dual Licensing Explained

The insurance industry is experiencing significant growth, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting 6% employment growth for insurance sales agents from 2023 to 2033, creating opportunities for professionals in related fields. If you're a Pennsylvania real estate agent wondering whether you can expand into insurance sales, you're asking the right question at the right time.

Pennsylvania's Regulatory Framework for Dual Services

Pennsylvania's regulatory environment allows professionals to hold multiple licenses when they meet the requirements for each profession separately. However, this comes with strict compliance obligations that protect consumers and maintain professional integrity.

According to Pennsylvania Code Section 35.283, real estate licensees who provide insurance services must disclose any financial interest in such services at the time the service is recommended or when they first learn the service will be used.

Legal Requirements You Must Follow

While Pennsylvania allows dual licensing, specific regulations ensure consumer protection and professional integrity. Understanding career requirements helps you navigate these obligations successfully.

Required Disclosure and Service Separation

Pennsylvania law establishes clear requirements for professionals who provide both real estate and insurance services. Under 49 Pa. Code § 35.283, real estate licensees must:

Disclosure Requirements:

• Disclose any financial interest in insurance services when recommending such services
• Provide written disclosure of referral fees or commissions received from insurance activities
• Make disclosures at the time service is recommended or when first learning the service will be used

Service Separation Requirements: Pennsylvania Code specifically states that real estate licensees "may not require a consumer to use" ancillary services including insurance. This means you cannot:

• Make insurance purchases a condition of real estate transactions
• Bundle insurance costs into real estate contracts
• Require clients to buy insurance through you to complete real estate deals

You may:

• Offer insurance as a separate, optional service
• Provide competitive quotes when clients express interest
• Explain coverage options during the buying process
• Assist with insurance needs as a separate service line

Recent Changes Make Licensing Easier

Pennsylvania recently eliminated pre-licensing education requirements through Act 142 of 2024, effective April 29, 2025, according to official Pennsylvania Insurance Department guidance. This change removes a significant barrier for busy real estate professionals.

However, successful candidates still invest in quality preparation. The Pennsylvania Insurance Department continues to administer comprehensive exams covering both national insurance concepts and Pennsylvania-specific regulations.

Why Preparation Matters Despite No Education Requirement

Insurance operates differently from real estate, with distinct terminology, concepts, and regulatory frameworks. Quality exam preparation through structured courses helps ensure first-attempt success.

Research consistently shows that candidates using structured preparation have significantly higher pass rates compared to those studying independently. This investment pays dividends through:

• Higher first-attempt pass rates
• Confidence in client conversations
• Ongoing reference materials for practice
• Solid foundation for building insurance expertise

The Business Case for Dual Licensing

Real estate agents possess unique advantages in insurance sales that traditional insurance-only agents lack. You already have established trust relationships with clients who've entrusted you with their largest financial transactions. You understand property characteristics, neighborhood risk factors, and local market conditions.

The timing alignment creates natural opportunities. When clients need insurance for closing, you're already discussing their protection needs. Annual policy renewals create ongoing touchpoints that generate real estate referrals when clients experience life changes.

Most importantly, insurance provides recurring annual revenue that continues regardless of real estate market conditions. This income diversification helps smooth seasonal fluctuations and market cycles that affect transaction-based earnings.

Getting Started with Insurance Licensing

The licensing process involves three main steps: exam preparation, passing the state exam, and partnering with an agency for carrier appointments. Each step builds toward your ability to serve clients and generate recurring revenue.

Step 1: Exam Preparation

While Pennsylvania doesn't require pre-licensing courses, quality preparation remains essential. Look for programs that offer:

• Pennsylvania-specific content and regulations
• Practice exams that simulate actual testing conditions
• Flexible study options that accommodate real estate schedules
• Expert instructor support for complex concepts

Step 2: State Examination

Pennsylvania administers insurance exams through PSI Services. The exam covers both general insurance principles and Pennsylvania-specific laws and regulations. Understanding study strategies helps ensure success.

Step 3: Agency Partnership

Before writing policies, you need carrier appointments and professional liability insurance. Agency partnerships provide these essentials while handling administrative complexities, allowing you to focus on client relationships and business building.

Professional Support and Continuing Education

The Pennsylvania Insurance Department provides ongoing guidance for dual-licensed professionals, including continuing education requirements, ethical guidelines, and best practices for serving clients professionally.

Licensed agents must complete continuing education requirements to maintain their licenses. These requirements ensure you stay current with industry changes, new products, and regulatory updates that affect your practice. Understanding different license types helps inform your continuing education planning.

Making the Strategic Decision

Dual licensing represents a significant business opportunity for Pennsylvania real estate agents willing to invest in proper preparation and professional development. The regulatory environment supports this expansion, market demand continues growing, and the business model provides both immediate revenue and long-term relationship benefits.

Success requires commitment to learning insurance concepts, maintaining ethical standards, and providing excellent service in both professional areas. For agents ready to expand their expertise and income potential, Pennsylvania's dual licensing framework provides clear pathways to success.

Ready to explore insurance licensing for your real estate practice? Before making any decisions about dual licensing, consult with both the Pennsylvania Insurance Department (717-787-3840) and Pennsylvania Real Estate Commission to ensure you understand all current requirements and compliance obligations. Aceable Insurance offers Pennsylvania-focused preparation designed for professionals seeking to expand their services while maintaining full regulatory compliance.

Important Legal Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Licensing requirements, regulations, and professional obligations can change. Before pursuing dual licensing, consult with the Pennsylvania Insurance Department (717-787-3840) and Pennsylvania Real Estate Commission to verify current requirements and ensure full compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. Individual circumstances may affect licensing eligibility.