Looking to start your career as a Mortgage Loan Originator (MLO)? One of the first questions every future loan officer asks is: “How much does a Mortgage Loan Originator License Cost?”
The good news: it’s more affordable than you think. In 2025, the total cost to get your Mortgage Loan Originator license ranges from $635 to $1,195, depending on your state’s fees and the education provider you choose.
This guide breaks down every required fee, offers tips to save money, and explains how costs vary by state.
1. What Are the Required Costs to Get an MLO License?
Here’s a quick breakdown of the typical fees you’ll need to pay to become a licensed Mortgage Loan Originator:
| Fee Type | Typical Cost (USD) | Details |
|---|
| Pre-licensure Education (20 Hours) | $300 – $500 | Required SAFE-approved courses |
| SAFE MLO Test | $110 | One-time national exam fee |
| Background Check (FBI Fingerprints) | $30 – $50 | Required by NMLS |
| Credit Report | $15 | NMLS credit check |
| NMLS Processing Fee | $130 – $330 | Varies by state |
| State-Specific Licensing Fee | Varies | $75 – $400 depending on state |
| Study Materials / Exam Prep | $50 – $200 | Optional but recommended |
| Continuing Education & Renewal (Annual) | $100 – $300 | 8 hours CE + renewal fee |
2. Total Estimated Cost
For most applicants, the total upfront cost is between $635 and $1,195.
- Low-cost states (e.g., Texas, Florida): around $650 – $750
- Higher-cost states (e.g., California, New York): $950 – $1,200
If you’re applying in multiple states, expect additional state fees.
3. State-Specific Fees – Why Costs Vary
Each state sets its own licensing and processing fees, which is why the total cost to get your Mortgage Loan Originator license can vary significantly. Here are some examples:
- California: NMLS + state fees ≈ $330 + $300
- Texas: NMLS + state fees ≈ $130 + $125
- Florida: NMLS + state fees ≈ $130 + $195
- New York: NMLS + state fees ≈ $330 + $500
- Georgia: NMLS + state fees ≈ $130 + $200
- Washington: NMLS + state fees ≈ $330 + $400
- Colorado: NMLS + state fees ≈ $130 + $75
- Illinois: NMLS + state fees ≈ $330 + $350
Always confirm with the state’s official page or NMLS Resource Center before applying, as some states update their fees annually.
→ Read more: mortgage loan originator salary
4. How to Save Money on Your MLO License
- Choose affordable, accredited education providers – but don’t sacrifice quality; some schools offer bundle deals.
- Take your SAFE test seriously – passing on the first try saves $110 on retakes.
- Apply for multiple state licenses at once if you’re planning to work in several states (some fees overlap).
- Look for employer sponsorship – many mortgage companies reimburse education costs after you’re hired.
5. Continuing Education & Annual Renewal Costs
Your NMLS license doesn’t expire if you keep it active. Expect to pay:
- 8 hours of Continuing Education (CE): $50 – $150 annually
- Renewal fees: $100 – $300 depending on your state
Most mortgage companies cover CE costs for their loan officers.
→ Read more: how to get an nmls number?
Why the Company You Choose Matters After Getting Licensed
Getting your Mortgage Loan Originator license is only half the journey. What truly determines your success as a loan officer is the support, tools, and mentorship you have behind you.
At Loan Factory, we help new and experienced loan officers build thriving mortgage careers by giving them every competitive advantage:
- Access to 245+ Wholesale Lenders – Offer a wider range of products to serve every type of borrower.
- Powerful Pricing Engine & Rate Alerts – Compete with big retail banks by always knowing the best available rates.
- Done-for-You Marketing & Automated CRM – Stay connected with clients, build trust, and grow referrals—without extra work.
- Mentorship From Thuan Nguyen – Learn directly from the #1 Loan Officer in the U.S., who personally closed 11,000 loans in just 2 years.
When you join the right company, you’re not just licensed—you’re set up to succeed.
Ready to Start Your Career the Right Way? If you’re serious about becoming a top-producing Mortgage Loan Originator, Loan Factory is the perfect place to launch your career.
Learn more about getting licensed and starting your career here: www.loanfactory.com/becoming-a-loan-officer.
Join our free webinar to learn more: www.loanfactory.com/loan-officer. Or call us today at 714-591-8143 to speak with our team about your career goals.
→ Read more: Why Top Loan Officers Are Flocking to Loan Factory’s Platform
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) of Mortgage Loan Originator License Cost Guide
Can I get an MLO license if I have bad credit?
