Mortgage loan originator (MLO) licenses are issued on an annual calendar cycle, expiring on December 31st each year. Step 1: Complete the Background Check Requirement Step 2: NMLS Registration Step 3: NMLS National Background Check - This in addition to submitting fingerprints to the Colorado Bureau of Investigations outlined in Step 1.
Step 4: Complete Qualifying Education Step 5: Take the SAFE MLO Exam Step 6: Acquire your E&O Insurance and Surety Bond Step 7: Complete the Division of Real Estate Initial License Application - (Step 2 must be completed before you can complete the online application. Step 2 can take 24-48 hours to process once the NMLS registration is completed.)
MLO applicants must meet testing requirements prior to applying for a license. Changes to MLO testing took effect April 1, 2013. As a result, MLO applicants can meet testing requirements in one of the following three ways: - Pass both the National Test and Washington State Test*
- Pass both the National Test* and Stand-alone Uniform State Test
- Pass the National Test with Uniform State Test
* The National Test and Washington State Test were retired effective March 31, 2013, but passing results are still valid for new applicants. MLO Testing Resources- Uniform State Test Implementation
Includes details on the launch of the new Uniform State Test - NMLS Testing Webpage
Includes the MLO testing handbook, test center locations and the cost of the tests. - NMLS Testing Registration Quick Guide
MLO Test FAQs- Must I pass the test prior to applying for a MLO license?
Yes. You cannot submit a MLO application until your passing score on the required test(s) is posted to your NMLS record. - How much does the test cost?
The Stand-alone Uniform State Test costs $33. The National Test with Uniform State Test costs $110. - How do I register to take the test?
Follow the instructions at the NMLS Resource Center. - What will be covered in the test?
Refer to the content outlines linked at the NMLS Resource Center. - How soon after failing a test may I take it again?
If you fail a test, you must wait 30 days before you can re-take that test. After failing the test three consecutive times, you must wait at least six months before taking the test again. - Can I change or cancel my test date?
Review the test candidate handbook at the NMLS Resource Center.
MLO Pre-Licensing EducationMLO applications must have a high school diploma or equivalent (GED) in order to apply. See WAC 208-660-350(1) or WAC 208-620-710 for alternative to the diploma. MLO applicants must complete 22 hours of NMLS approved pre-licensing education, including 4 hours in Washington Law. Be sure to take Pre-Licensing Education not Continuing Education. MLO Pre-Licensing Education Resources- NMLS Education Webpage
Webpage includes approved course providers and master course catalog. - NMLS Education Registration Quick Guide
MLO Pre-Licensing Education FAQs- Must I complete 22 hours of pre-licensing education prior to applying for a MLO license?
Yes. You cannot submit a MLO application until you complete and have posted to your NMLS record 22 hours of Pre-Licensing Education, including 4 hours in Washington law. - How much does the 22 hours of pre-licensing education cost?
The cost for pre-licensing education varies. Contact the course provider directly for fee information. - How do I register to take the 22 hours of pre-licensing education?
Follow the instructions at the NMLS Resource Center. - Are there specific pre-licensing courses which must be taken?
Yes. Eight of the 22 hours must meet the SAFE requirements and 4 more of the 22 hours must be in Washington law. - Can I take my courses online?
Yes. The NMLS approved course providers offer a variety of formats for their education, including online courses as well as classroom courses.
MLO Criminal Background CheckMLO applicants must complete a credit report authorization through NMLS. Applicants are strongly encouraged to review their credit report prior to applying. This ensures accurate answers on the disclosure questions.
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