Mortgage Loan Originators (MLOs) are professionals who help consumers apply for, negotiate, and secure residential mortgage loans. In most cases, individuals performing these activities must be properly licensed or registered before conducting business.
This hub page provides an overview of Mortgage Loan Originator licensing requirements in the United States and links to state-specific guides with detailed instructions.
What Is a Mortgage Loan Originator?
A Mortgage Loan Originator is an individual who:
- Takes residential mortgage loan applications, and/or
- Offers or negotiates terms of a mortgage loan for compensation or gain
MLOs may work for:
- Mortgage companies
- Banks or credit unions
- Independent mortgage brokers
Is a Mortgage Loan Originator License Required?
In most cases, yes.
- Individuals working for non-bank lenders or mortgage brokers are typically required to hold a state Mortgage Loan Originator license
- Individuals working for federally regulated banks or credit unions are usually required to register rather than obtain a state license
Licensing and registration requirements are governed at both the federal and state level, with state-specific rules applying to licensed MLOs.
General Licensing Process Overview
While requirements vary by state, most Mortgage Loan Originator licenses follow a similar process:
- Create an account in the Nationwide Multistate Licensing System (NMLS)
- Complete required pre-licensing education
- Pass the national (and sometimes state) MLO exam
- Submit fingerprints and background check
- Obtain a surety bond (if required)
- Apply for licensure through the state regulator
- Maintain the license through renewal and continuing education
Regulatory Oversight
Mortgage Loan Originators are regulated by:
- State financial or banking regulators (for licensed MLOs)
- Federal oversight agencies (for registered MLOs)
Most licensing and compliance activity is administered through the Nationwide Multistate Licensing System (NMLS), which standardizes applications, education tracking, and renewals across states.
Renewal and Continuing Education
To keep an MLO license active, most states require:
- Annual or biennial license renewal
- Completion of required continuing education (often including federal law, ethics, and nontraditional mortgage topics)
- Ongoing compliance with background and financial responsibility standards
Failure to renew on time may result in license expiration or penalties.
Reciprocity and Out-of-State Licensing
Mortgage Loan Originator licenses are generally state-specific.
Some states offer limited reciprocity or streamlined licensing for individuals already licensed elsewhere, but requirements vary.
Out-of-state applicants should always review state-specific rules before applying.
Find Your State’s Mortgage Loan Originator Requirements
- Education and exam requirements
- Application steps and fees
- Bond and insurance rules
- Renewal timelines
- Official regulator links
Training and Resources
Looking for exam prep courses, continuing education providers, or licensing tools?
Visit the Mortgage Loan Originator Resources page for links to training providers, regulatory references, and commonly used licensing platforms.
Related Licensing Guides
You may also be interested in:
- Insurance Agent License Requirements
- Insurance Adjuster License Requirements
- Real Estate Agent License Requirements
- Property Manager License Requirements
Next Steps
- Choose your state from the list above
- Review the specific licensing requirements
- Confirm details with the official state regulator
- Begin the application process through NMLS
Licensing rules can change. Always verify requirements using the official authority links provided on each state page.