NMLS MLO

The Nationwide Mortgage Licensing System (NMLS) and Registry administers the mortgage loan originator (MLO) licensing exam and maintains records of licensure throughout the nation.

The national MLO exam is part of licensure nationwide. Some states may require additional tests. Check with the MLO licensing board in your state or province for complete information.

Licensing helps ensure that both new and experienced mortgage loan originators practice safely and ethically. Our book will prepare you for the national MLO exam.

The Secure and Fair Enforcement for Mortgage Licensing Act (SAFE) Act was enacted in 2008 as part of the Housing and Economic Recovery Act. It protects consumers and discourages fraud by requiring licensing for MLOs. Anyone who accepts residential mortgage loan applications or discusses their terms must be licensed under this law.

You will have three hours and ten minutes to complete the exam.

The NMLS SAFE MLO is a pass/fail test. A minimum score of 75% is required to pass. Your score is determined by how many of the 115 scored questions you answer correctly.

The unofficial copy of your score report will be available immediately after the exam. Your official results will be posted in the NMLS. Your score report will include the percentage score and a breakdown indicating your performance on each section of the exam.

The MLO is administered at Prometric testing centers around the nation or through online proctoring at home. Plan to arrive at least thirty minutes before the exam to complete the screening process. Be sure to bring at least two forms of ID, one of which must be government-issued with a photo. If you do not have proper ID, you will not be allowed to take the test. The type and number of required IDs are determined by the sponsor of your exam.

You will not be allowed to bring any personal items into the testing room, including calculators and phones, pens, pencils, or scratch paper. Consult the Prometric Test Center Regulations to know exactly what to expect on test day.

If you do not pass the test, you may take the test again after 30 days. You are entitled to 3 attempts. If you still do not pass on the third try, you must wait 180 days before retesting.