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.
PrerequisitesMust pass the national component (UST or NTP) before or concurrently with the state component. Required only in states that mandate a separate state component. (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).