Introduction and Purpose

The goal of NMLS is to improve consumer finance, debt, fiduciary services, money services and mortgage industry supervision, heighten communication across states, increase consistency in licensing requirements, and automate processes to the greatest degree possible.

The NMLS Policy Guidebook is intended to be a resource for applicants, licensees, and state regulatory agencies using NMLS. It is intended to assist applicants and licensees in understanding the policies related to using NMLS. It is a living document that will be updated regularly in response to decisions and conclusions reached through the NMLS policy-making process, as well as through experience in using NMLS.

NMLS collects information from applicants ("data"). The data required are captured in various forms, namely:
  • Company Form (MU1)
  • Individual Form (MU2)
  • Branch Form (MU3)
  • Individual License Form (MU4)

These forms are available electronically on the NMLS State Resource Center.

The Glossary provides a list of all the terms used throughout the Guidebook. Each chapter herein includes a list of prevalent terms used throughout the chapter.

Important:

The NMLS Policy Guidebook IS NOT a substitute for understanding the licensing requirements of each state in which an applicant or licensee wishes to apply for or maintain a license. It is not a substitute for obtaining information directly from the state(s) from which an applicant or licensee is seeking or maintaining licensure. All applicants or licensees should consult directly with their appropriate state regulator(s) for licensing requirements and how to use NMLS to meet these requirements.

The NMLS Policy Guidebook does not supersede state laws, rules, regulations, or guidance issued by the state(s) related to seeking or maintaining licensure. For those licensees that operate in multiple states, it is possible that complying with a state specific requirement may result in disclosures in NMLS that are not required by all states where the entity is licensed.

It is the responsibility of all users of NMLS to fully understand the information required in each state in which they wish to apply for or maintain a license.

We do not endorse, represent, or warrant the accuracy or reliability of any of the information or content contained in or referenced by this Guidebook