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How to Get a Mortgage Loan Officer License FastIf you’re considering a career in the mortgage industry, one of the first questions you might ask is: “How to get a mortgage loan officer license?” or “How to get mortgage loan officer license fast?”
The good news is that the process is straightforward, and most motivated candidates can get licensed in 4–8 weeks. Here’s everything you need to know to start your journey.
Step 1: Understand the Basic Requirements
Basic Requirements to Get a Mortgage Loan Officer LicenseBefore applying, make sure you meet these standard requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old (some states require 19).
- Have a clean background (felonies related to fraud or dishonesty can disqualify you).
- Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident.
Step 2: Complete NMLS Pre-Licensing Education (PE)
You must complete 20 hours of NMLS-approved Pre-Licensing Education.
What’s Included in the 20 Hours?
- Federal mortgage laws (3 hours)
- Ethics, including fraud and consumer protection (3 hours)
- Non-traditional mortgage lending (2 hours)
- Electives & state-specific laws (12 hours)
Most students finish the course online in 1–2 weeks if studying full-time.
Pro Tip: Choose an NMLS-approved school that offers self-paced or fast-track online options if you want to get licensed quickly.
→ Learn more: What Is an NMLS License? Everything You Need to Know
Step 3: Pass the SAFE MLO Test
Pass the SAFE MLO TestAfter completing education, you need to pass the SAFE Mortgage Loan Originator (MLO) Test.
- What’s on the exam?
- Federal mortgage laws, ethics, loan origination activities, and general mortgage knowledge.
- Passing score: 75%
- Pass rate: Around 55–60% nationwide, but higher if you use practice exams and structured prep courses.
→ Read more: How to Pass the SAFE MLO Exam on Your First Try
Step 4: Complete a Background Check & Fingerprinting
All candidates must complete:
- Criminal background check through NMLS.
- Credit check to ensure financial responsibility.
Step 5: Submit Your NMLS Application
Create an account on the Nationwide Multistate Licensing System (NMLS) and submit your application. This includes:
- Application fee (~$30).
- Fingerprinting fee (~$36.25).
- State licensing fees (varies, $100–$300).
Get Sponsored by a Licensed Mortgage CompanyYou can’t originate loans until you’re sponsored by a state-licensed or federally registered mortgage company.
Pro Tip: Join a company that offers training, mentorship, and marketing support to help you succeed from day one.
How Long Does It Take to Get Licensed?
Most candidates complete all steps in 4–8 weeks:
- Pre-licensing course: 1–2 weeks
- Exam prep & testing: 2–4 weeks
- Background check & sponsorship approval: 1–2 weeks
→ Read more: How long does it take to become a mortgage loan officer?
Expect to spend $500–$800 total:
- Pre-licensing education: $300–$500
- NMLS test & application fees: ~$200
- Fingerprinting & background check: ~$100
Expert Tips to Succeed as a New MLO
Thuan Nguyen, the #1 loan officer in the U.S., shares his advice:
“Becoming licensed is the easy part. Success comes from working smart, giving great service, and using the right systems to handle more clients efficiently.”
→ Read more: Founder & CEO of Loan Factory
Why Many New LOs Choose Loan Factory
If you’re serious about success after getting licensed, Loan Factory offers:
- Free Marketing Tools – Automated ads, Google review requests, and weekly-updated templates.
- Technology That Saves Time – Real-time pricing engine and CRM.
- Training From Top Producers – Weekly sessions with Thuan Nguyen himself.
- No Hidden Fees – Keep 100% commission minus a flat $595 per file.
→ Read more: Marketing for Mortgage Loan Officers: 8 Unique Strategies
Ready to Get Your Mortgage Loan Officer License and Start Earning?
- Join Loan Factory Today – Learn from the best and grow faster with the right tools.
- Call 714-591-8143 to speak with our team.
→ Read more: Mortgage Loan Officer CRM: Why Top Loan Officers Are Flocking to Loan Factory’s Platform
FAQs About Getting a Mortgage Loan Officer License
How hard is the SAFE MLO Test?
