How to Become a Mortgage Loan Officer in TennesseeThinking about starting a career in mortgage lending? If you’re in the Volunteer State, you might be asking, “How to become a mortgage loan officer in Tennessee?” The process is straightforward but requires meeting specific state and federal licensing requirements.
This guide explains every step to getting licensed, the unique rules in Tennessee, how long it takes, and why choosing the right company—like Loan Factory—can help you succeed.
Tennessee Mortgage Loan Officer Licensing Requirements
Tennessee Mortgage Loan Officer Licensing RequirementsTennessee regulates mortgage loan officers (MLOs) through the Tennessee Department of Financial Institutions and the Nationwide Multistate Licensing System (NMLS). Here’s what you need to do:
1. Meet Basic Eligibility
To qualify, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a valid Social Security Number
- Pass a criminal background check and a credit review
(Source: NMLS Resource Center)
2. Complete 20 Hours of NMLS Pre-Licensing Education
Tennessee follows the federal SAFE Act requirements:
- 3 hours federal law
- 3 hours ethics
- 2 hours non-traditional mortgage lending
- 12 hours elective courses
There are no additional state-specific pre-licensing hours, making Tennessee simpler than some states (like Ohio or West Virginia, which require 24 hours).
Choose an NMLS-approved provider such as:
- The CE Shop
- Mortgage Educators & Compliance
- OnCourse Learning
Average cost: $200–$400
Timeline: 1–2 weeks
3. Pass the SAFE MLO Test
After finishing your coursework, you must pass the SAFE Mortgage Loan Originator Test:
→ Read more: How to Pass the SAFE MLO Exam on Your First Try: Expert Tips
4. Submit Your Tennessee NMLS Application
Apply online via NMLS and submit:
- Your MU4 application form
- Fingerprints and background check (~$36)
- Credit report authorization (~$15)
- Application fees (~$330–$400 total)
The Tennessee Department of Financial Institutions reviews applications in 2–4 weeks.
5. Obtain Sponsorship from a Licensed Employer
Your license won’t become active until you’re sponsored by a Tennessee-licensed mortgage lender or broker. Sponsorship confirms that you’ll originate loans under their supervision.
Continuing Education and Renewal
Continuing Education and RenewalTo keep your license active in Tennessee:
- Complete 8 hours of continuing education (CE) every year:
- 3 hours federal law
- 2 hours ethics
- 2 hours non-traditional lending
- 1 elective hour
- Submit CE by December 31 (recommended by November 1 to avoid delays)
- Annual renewal fees: ~$75
(Source: OnCourse Learning – Tennessee License Requirements)
How Long Does It Take to Become a Mortgage Loan Officer in TN?
Most people complete the process in 4–8 weeks:
Step | Time Estimate |
Pre-licensing education | 1–2 weeks |
Exam prep and SAFE test | 1–2 weeks |
NMLS application processing | 2–3 weeks |
Employer sponsorship approval | 1 week |
→ Read more: How to Start with Junior Mortgage Loan Officer Jobs
What Do Mortgage Loan Officers Earn in Tennessee?
What Do Mortgage Loan Officers Earn in Tennessee?According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Tennessee mortgage loan officers earn an average annual salary of $70,000–$78,000, with top producers making $100,000–$150,000+ through commission.
Your earning potential depends on:
- Loan volume and types (FHA, VA, jumbo, commercial)
- Your network and marketing efforts
- Company compensation structure
→ Read more: What is the highest salary for a mortgage loan officer?
Why Choose Loan Factory to Launch Your Tennessee Career?
While many new MLOs struggle early on, working with the right company can make a huge difference. Loan Factory offers:
- Free weekly training led by Thuan Nguyen, CEO of Loan Factory and the #1 loan officer in the U.S.
- Access to +240 lenders to serve every loan type, from residential to commercial and land loans
- Free MOSO technology platform to manage your pipeline and streamline applications
- 100% commission minus a flat $595 fee per closed loan
- No desk fees, no monthly fees, and no production minimums
- Company-generated leads in 42 states, including Tennessee
With strong mentorship, cutting-edge tech, and marketing support, you’ll have the tools to build your business faster.
→ Read more: Grow Faster with The Best FinTech Mortgage Platform In the US
Ready to Start Your Mortgage Career in Tennessee?
Ready to Start Your Mortgage Career in Tennessee?Now that you know how to become a mortgage loan officer in Tennessee, it’s time to take the first step. With dedication and the right support, you can start closing loans and growing your income in just a few weeks.
Get started today: https://www.loanfactory.com/becoming-a-loan-officer
Or call 714-591-8143 to speak with our team about training, licensing discounts, and career opportunities.
