How to Get Your NMLS License Fast: A 5-Step Guide

By Craig Snell

September 8, 2025

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How to Get Your NMLS License

Hey future mortgage professionals! Mortgage Daddies here, and today I want to walk you through one of the most important steps in starting your mortgage career: getting your NMLS license. Whether you’re just starting to think about joining the mortgage industry or you’re ready to take the plunge, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the licensing process.

At Mortgage Daddies, we have gone through this process ourselves, and we know it can feel overwhelming at first. But here’s the thing: thousands of people successfully get their NMLS license every year and go on to have rewarding careers helping families achieve their homeownership dreams. With the right preparation and mindset, you can absolutely do this too.

In this blog, we’re going to break down the entire process step by step, share some insider tips from our years in the industry, we have mortgage and loan information as well as who we are as the mortgage daddies on our homepage!

What Is an NMLS License?

Before we get into how to get an NMLS license, let’s start with the basics. NMLS stands for Nationwide Multistate Licensing System, and it’s the centralized system used to license and register mortgage loan originators across the United States.

What Is a NMLS License Used For?

Your NMLS license is essentially your professional credential that allows you to legally originate mortgage loans. Think of it as your driver’s license for the mortgage world. Without it, you can’t legally help people get home loans. The license ensures that mortgage professionals meet certain education, testing, and background requirements to protect consumers and maintain industry standards.

The NMLS system was created after the 2008 financial crisis to bring more oversight and standardization to the mortgage industry. Today, it’s managed by the Conference of State Bank Supervisors (CSBS) and serves as the official registry for all licensed mortgage loan originators.

How to Get NMLS License: The Complete Process

Getting your NMLS license involves several key steps, and we’ll walk you through each one. The process typically takes 4-8 weeks if you stay on top of everything, though it can take longer depending on your state’s requirements and how quickly you complete each step.

Step 1: Meet the Basic Eligibility Requirements

Before you can even start the licensing process, you need to make sure you meet the basic requirements:

Age: You must be at least 18 years old
Background: You’ll need to pass criminal background checks and demonstrate financial responsibility
Residency: Some states have residency requirements, though many allow you to be licensed in multiple states

Step 2: Complete Pre-License Education

This is where the real work begins. To get your NMLS license, you must complete 20 hours of pre-license education from an approved provider. Here’s the breakdown of what you’ll study:

The curriculum includes:

Federal Law and Regulations (3 hours): Covering essential federal laws, regulations, and rules that govern the mortgage industry
Ethics (3 hours): Focused on ethical practices, including fraud prevention, consumer protection, and fair lending practices
Non-Traditional Mortgage Lending (2 hours): Covering products outside the conventional fixed-rate mortgage, including adjustable-rate mortgages and other specialty products
Electives (12 hours): Additional topics that may vary based on state requirements and personal interests, focusing mainly on the traditional residential mortgage origination process, procedures, and best practices

Vernon and I always tell people that this education isn’t just about passing a test, it’s about building the foundation you’ll need to be successful in this industry. Pay attention during these courses because you’ll use this knowledge every day in your career.

Step 3: Pass the SAFE MLO Test

After completing your education, you’ll need to pass the SAFE (Secure and Fair Enforcement) Mortgage Loan Originator Test. This is often the most intimidating part of the process, but with proper preparation, it’s absolutely manageable.

Here’s what you need to know:

Format: The SAFE MLO Test consists of 125 multiple-choice questions, of which 115 are scored. The remaining 10 questions are unscored experimental items used for future test development

Timing: You have 190 minutes (just over 3 hours) to take the exam, which gives you plenty of time if you’re well-prepared:

Subjects Covered:

Federal mortgage-related laws (24%)
General mortgage knowledge (20%)
Mortgage loan origination activities (27%)
Ethics (18%)
Uniform State Content (11%)
Scoring: A score of at least 75% is required to pass.

Step 4: Submit Your License Application

Once you’ve passed the test, you’ll submit your actual license application through the NMLS system. This includes:

Background checks (criminal and credit)
Employment history
Personal information and references
State-specific requirements
Application fees (varies by state, typically $100-$400)

Step 5: Get Sponsored by a Licensed Company

Here’s something important that trips up a lot of new licensees: you can’t just get your license and start working independently. You need to be sponsored by a licensed mortgage company. This is where networking and building relationships in the industry becomes crucial.

How to Obtain NMLS License: Preparation Tips

Now let’s talk about how to set yourself up for success. Getting your NMLS license isn’t just about checking boxes; it’s about preparing yourself for a successful career.

Create a Study Plan

Review each topic in the SAFE MLO Test Outline and break down your study sessions accordingly. Don’t try to cram everything in at the last minute. Vernon and I recommend studying for at least 2-3 weeks before taking the exam, spending 1-2 hours per day reviewing the material.

Take Practice Tests

Practice exams can help you identify your weak areas and get comfortable with the test format. Many education providers offer practice tests, and we highly recommend taking several before your actual exam.

Review Flashcards and Notes

Flashcards are helpful for memorizing key terms, laws, and regulations. The mortgage industry has a lot of acronyms and specific terminology, so having these memorized will serve you well both on the test and in your career.

Stay Calm on Test Day

It’s normal to feel nervous, but remember that thorough preparation will build your confidence. Get a good night’s sleep, eat a proper breakfast, and arrive at the testing center early so you’re not rushed.

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How Hard Is It to Get NMLS License?

This is probably the question we get asked most often. The honest answer? It’s challenging but definitely achievable with the right preparation and mindset.

The statistics show that first-time pass rates vary, but with quality education and proper preparation, success rates can be quite high. OnCourse Learning’s exam prep solutions, for example, feature 85% first-time SAFE MLO Test pass rates.

Here’s what makes it challenging:

Volume of material: There’s a lot to learn, from federal regulations to loan products to ethical requirements
Detail-oriented: The test requires you to know specific details about laws, regulations, and procedures
Time pressure: While you have over 3 hours, managing your time effectively is important

Here’s what makes it manageable:

Multiple choice format: You’re not writing essays or doing complex calculations
Retake opportunities: If you don’t pass on the first attempt, don’t be discouraged. You can retake the test after a 30-day waiting period
Quality preparation materials: There are excellent study resources available to help you succeed

State-Specific Requirements

While the SAFE MLO Test is uniform across states, each state may have additional requirements for how to obtain an NMLS license. Some states require additional education hours, have specific continuing education requirements, or have unique application procedures. Make sure you research your specific state’s requirements early in the process.

Maintaining Your NMLS License

Getting your license is just the beginning. To keep your NMLS license active, you’ll need to:

Complete continuing education requirements (typically 8 hours annually)
Pay renewal fees
Maintain your employment with a licensed company
Keep your background and financial responsibility in good standing

Common Mistakes to Avoid

From our years in the industry, here are the most common mistakes we see people make when getting their NMLS license:

Rushing through the education: Take your time and actually learn the material
Not studying for the test: The education alone isn’t enough, you need to study specifically for the exam
Waiting too long to find a sponsor: Start networking and looking for employment opportunities early
Not researching state requirements: Make sure you understand your specific state’s requirements
Giving up after one failed attempt: Many successful loan officers didn’t pass on their first try

Your Next Steps

Ready to start your journey toward getting your NMLS license? Here’s your action plan:

Research your state’s specific requirements
Choose a quality education provider
Create a study schedule and stick to it
Start networking with mortgage companies in your area
Take practice tests regularly
Schedule your SAFE MLO Test when you feel prepared

Conclusion

Getting your NMLS license is your gateway to a rewarding career in the mortgage industry. While the process requires dedication and preparation, it’s absolutely achievable for anyone willing to put in the work. Remember, this license isn’t just a piece of paper… it represents your commitment to helping families achieve their homeownership dreams while maintaining the highest professional and ethical standards.

The mortgage industry needs passionate, ethical professionals who genuinely care about helping people. If that sounds like you, then getting your NMLS license is the first step toward making a real difference in people’s lives while building a successful career for yourself. And if you liked the sound of this learning center article, then you should listen to our podcast where we have all the mortgage daddies information on loans and mortgages in 2025!

About the Mortgage Daddies Podcast

If you’re serious about building a career in the mortgage industry, Vernon and I would love to have you as part of our community. On the Mortgage Daddies podcast, we dive deep into all aspects of the mortgage business, from getting started with your NMLS license to advanced strategies for building long-term client relationships.

We share real stories from our years in the industry, interview successful professionals, and provide practical advice that you won’t find in textbooks. Whether you’re just starting your licensing journey or you’re already in the business looking to grow, our podcast offers insights that can help you succeed.

You can find us on YouTube for full video episodes, or listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and everywhere else you get your podcasts. We also share daily tips and industry insights on our social media channels. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for bite-sized wisdom that will help you stay ahead in this ever-changing industry.

Join the Mortgage Daddies Team

Ready to take the next step in your mortgage career? We’re always looking for passionate, licensed professionals who want to make a real impact in their communities. At Milestone Mortgage Solutions, we believe in supporting our team members’ growth and success while maintaining the highest standards of service for our clients.

If you’re getting your NMLS license because you want to be part of something bigger, a team that genuinely cares about helping families and changing lives through homeownership. We’d love to talk with you. Reach out to us through our website, podcast, or social media channels. Let’s discuss how you can use your new NMLS license to build a meaningful career that makes a difference in people’s lives.

You can find us on YouTube for full video episodes, or listen on Spotify and everywhere else you get your podcasts. We also share quick tips and industry insights on social media. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for daily doses of mortgage wisdom.

Ready to get your NMLS license and start your mortgage career? Follow the Mortgage Daddies for ongoing support, industry insights, and the community you need to succeed in this amazing industry.

Craig Snell

NMLS# 49948

Craig Snell is the Vice President of Sales at Milestone Mortgage Solutions and co-cost of The Mortgage Daddies. A former firefighter and paramedic, Craig brings the same dedication and calm under pressure to guiding clients through the mortgage process. Known for his clear communication and approachable style, he helps homebuyers and homeowners make confident, informed decisions. Whether it’s a first home or a refinance, Craig’s focus is on simplifying the journey and building lasting relationships.