State MLO License Requirements Lookup
Compare mortgage loan originator license requirements across all states. Pre-education hours, bond amounts, continuing education, and more — all in one place.
| State | Pre-Ed Hours | Exam | Bond Amount | CE Hours | Background Check | Net Worth |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ALAlabama | 20 hrs | NMLS SAFE | $25,000 | 8 hrs | None | |
AKAlaska | 20 hrs | NMLS SAFE | $25,000 | 8 hrs | None | |
AZArizona | 20 hrs | NMLS SAFE | $25,000 | 8 hrs | None | |
CACalifornia DBO and DRE dual licensing tracks | 20 hrs | NMLS SAFE | $25,000 | 8 hrs | $250,000 (company) | |
COColorado | 20 hrs | NMLS SAFE | $25,000 | 8 hrs | None | |
CTConnecticut | 20 hrs | NMLS SAFE | $40,000 | 8 hrs | None | |
FLFlorida OFR regulates MLOs | 20 hrs | NMLS SAFE | $25,000 | 8 hrs | None | |
GAGeorgia | 20 hrs | NMLS SAFE | $50,000 | 8 hrs | None | |
HIHawaii | 20 hrs | NMLS SAFE | $25,000 | 8 hrs | None | |
ILIllinois | 20 hrs | NMLS SAFE | $25,000 | 8 hrs | None | |
INIndiana | 20 hrs | NMLS SAFE | $25,000 | 8 hrs | None | |
LALouisiana | 20 hrs | NMLS SAFE | $50,000 | 8 hrs | None | |
MAMassachusetts | 20 hrs | NMLS SAFE | $25,000 | 8 hrs | None | |
MIMichigan | 20 hrs | NMLS SAFE | $25,000 | 8 hrs | None | |
MNMinnesota | 20 hrs | NMLS SAFE | $25,000 | 8 hrs | None | |
NVNevada | 20 hrs | NMLS SAFE | $50,000 | 8 hrs | None | |
NJNew Jersey | 20 hrs | NMLS SAFE | $25,000 | 8 hrs | None | |
NYNew York 3-hour NY-specific CE course required | 20 hrs | NMLS SAFE | $10,000 | 8 hrs + 3 hr NY | None | |
NCNorth Carolina | 20 hrs | NMLS SAFE | $25,000 | 8 hrs | None | |
OHOhio | 20 hrs | NMLS SAFE | $50,000 | 8 hrs | None | |
OROregon | 20 hrs | NMLS SAFE | $25,000 | 8 hrs | None | |
PAPennsylvania | 20 hrs | NMLS SAFE | $25,000 | 8 hrs | None | |
TNTennessee | 20 hrs | NMLS SAFE | $25,000 | 8 hrs | None | |
TXTexas SML regulates MLOs; recovery fund in lieu of bond | 20 hrs | NMLS SAFE | $50,000 | 8 hrs | $25,000 (company) | |
VAVirginia | 20 hrs | NMLS SAFE | $25,000 | 8 hrs | None | |
WAWashington | 20 hrs | NMLS SAFE | $30,000 | 8 hrs | None |
Data reflects federal SAFE Act minimums plus state-specific additions. Always verify current requirements at NMLS.org before applying for your license.
Key Takeaways
Universal 20-Hour Pre-Ed
Every state requires at least 20 hours of NMLS-approved pre-license education as mandated by the SAFE Act. Some states add additional hours.
NMLS SAFE Exam Required
All state-licensed MLOs must pass the national SAFE MLO exam through NMLS/Prometric with a score of 75% or higher.
Bond Amounts Vary
Surety bond requirements range from $10,000 (NY) to $50,000 (TX, GA, OH, LA, NV). The bond protects consumers against MLO misconduct.
8 Hours Annual CE
SAFE Act requires 8 hours of continuing education annually: 3 hrs federal law, 2 hrs ethics, 2 hrs non-traditional, 1 hr elective.
Background Check Mandatory
All states require FBI criminal background checks and credit report authorization. Felony convictions within 7 years disqualify applicants.
Net Worth Varies
Most states have no individual net worth requirement, but some (CA, TX) require company-level net worth for the employing entity.
Understanding MLO Licensing by State
The SAFE Mortgage Licensing Act of 2008 established a baseline set of requirements for mortgage loan originators across the United States. However, each state has the authority to set additional requirements above the federal minimum. Understanding your state's specific requirements is crucial before beginning the licensing process.
All state-licensed MLOs must register through NMLS (Nationwide Multistate Licensing System), complete at least 20 hours of pre-license education, pass the SAFE MLO exam, and undergo criminal background checks and credit review. Bond amounts, net worth requirements, and continuing education specifics vary by state. Many aspiring MLOs obtain licenses in multiple states to expand their service area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are MLO license requirements the same in every state?
What is the surety bond requirement for an MLO license?
Can I get an MLO license in multiple states?
How long does it take to get an MLO license?
What is the difference between state-licensed and federally registered MLOs?
Do I need to renew my MLO license every year?
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