How to add a Nickname name to your PA Real Estate License

Recently, I was presented with a problem in which one of my clients– a Real Estate Salesperson here in Pennsylvania– had not correctly registered their nickname with the Department of State. No big deal, right? Well, it is more important than one would think. Since the late 1980’s, it has been required under Pennsylvania Law that all PA Licensed real estate salespersons file their nickname / “A.K.A.” name with the PA Department of State as a legality. One call to the local board and you'll be reassured of the importance of doing this, as it is actually a finable offense. After researching this myself, I found it difficult to find a straightforward answer on what the process entails. To remove any confusion, here's the rundown on how to properly file your nickname with the Department of State, avoid incurring any fines, and prevent any blemishes on your record.

?The policy in question is covered on the PA Department of State website, and the details may be viewed under the Real Estate commission FAQ's. The Commission's policy on the use and advertisement of nicknames is outlined as follows: “Section 35.305(b) of the Commission's Regulations, 49 Pa. Code §35.305(b), permits a licensee to advertise using a nickname for the licensee's first name so long as the licensee has registered that nickname with the Commission.”

?The policy goes on to explain that failure to comply with PA Code will result in a monetary fine: “Advertising or using a nickname that has not been registered with the Commission 1st offense—$250?2nd offense—$500” Unsure if you have your Nickname registered with the PA Real Estate Commission? You can quickly verify on the Pennsylvania Licensing System (PALS) website at https://www.pals.pa.gov/ If there is not an approved nickname noted in your licensee record maintained by the commission, this means you haven't filed with them and must do so as soon as possible.

So, are you a PA Real Estate salesperson that's using your nickname in advertising without having filed your nickname with the commission? Don't worry, I’m here to help. After exhaustive research and one email to the Commission, here’s your step by step guide on how to properly have your nickname approved with no hassle.

1. ?To have a nickname approved, send an email to [email protected]. Include the full name, license number, and nickname you wish to have approved.?
2. Be aware that nicknames are generally only approved as derivatives of your first name (i.e. "Tim" For "Timothy") and you are still required to use your surname in all advertising.?
3. Please consult a private attorney for guidance on how to remain in compliance with the law and regulations with regards to your advertising.?
4. Once the nickname has been approved, an approval letter will be sent by email. The letter should be retained for your records. The approved nickname will also be noted in the license record maintained by the Commission.

?And we’re done! Simply email the commission the pertinent information, and you'll get an email response and it will be added to your licensee record on the PALS website. No more looming potential fines for you! Remember, that nicknames are generally only approved as derivatives of your first name, so no– you can't go by NightHawk, as much as we’d love to see that. Good luck