Question TypesMultiple Choice
FormatLinear (Pearson VUE in-person or OnVUE online proctored)
Online ProctoringAvailable
ID RequirementsTwo forms of ID required at Pearson VUE test center: one government-issued photo ID with signature (primary) and one additional ID. Name on IDs must match NMLS registration exactly.
RenewalRequired -- MLO licenses are renewed annually through NMLS. 8 hours of continuing education (CE) required each year, including: 3 hours of federal law, 2 hours of ethics, 2 hours of non-traditional mortgage lending, and 1 hour of undefined instruction. State-specific CE may be required in addition to federal CE requirements. Renew at mortgage.nationwidelicensingsystem.org.
Prerequisites20 hours of pre-licensure education (PE) required before scheduling under SAFE Act. NMLS background check and credit report required. (recommended)
Retake Policy30-day waiting period after 1st and 2nd failed attempts. 180-day waiting period after 3rd and subsequent failed attempts. Each retake requires full exam fee ($110 or $69).