Provides a high-level overview of the steps for obtaining a state license or registration through NMLS.
Do You Need a State License or Registration?
State licenses or registrations are required for individuals working for state-regulated non-bank entities. If you work for a federally regulated bank or credit union, please see Registration Guide for Federally-Regulated MLOs.
Before you apply for an individual license or registration in NMLS, there are a several tasks you need to complete.
User Accounts and Profiles
This section introduces individual user accounts and profiles in NMLS, including how accounts are created, managed, and updated. It provides an overview of related tasks and explains where users can find detailed instructions for completing common account and profile activities.
Working with Your Employer for License or Registration Applications
Before beginning your application, check with your employer to understand how they may support or participate in the process.
Gathering Requirements
Understand how to identify and collect the information and documents needed to complete filings in NMLS.
Completing Pre-Licensure Education
Understand the process for completing Pre-Licensure Education in pursuit of an individual NMLS license.
Passing the SAFE MLO Test
Understand the requirements and structure of the SAFE Mortgage Loan Originator (MLO) Test, and how to prepare for and schedule your exam.
Understand the purpose of the Individual MU4 Form and what to expect when filing it in NMLS.
Information You Need Before You Can Apply
Gather essential personal, historical, and state-specific documentation before beginning your MU4 license application filing.
Creating an Individual MU4 Filing
Learn how to create a new MU4 filing to begin applying for an MLO license or registration in NMLS.
Completing an Individual MU4 Filing
Learn how to complete and submit an Individual MU4 filing to apply for a license or registration through NMLS.
Completing Application Requirements Submitted Outside of NMLS
Learn how to identify and complete application requirements that must be submitted directly to state agencies outside of NMLS.
Determining MU4 Filing Status
Learn how to review the status of a submitted MU4 filing in NMLS.
Responding to License Items for Individuals
Learn how to respond to license items issued by state regulators during the review of your MU4 application.
Requesting Additional Individual Licenses
Understand how to request additional state licenses or registrations using the MU4 filing in NMLS.
Outlines ongoing responsibilities for keeping a license or registration in good standing.
Changing Employers
Explains how to update your employer in NMLS using an MU4 amendment filing.
Determining MU4 Filing Status
Learn how to review the status of a submitted MU4 filing in NMLS.
Responding to License Items for Individuals
Learn how to respond to license items issued by state regulators during the review of your MU4 application.
Gathering Requirements
Understand how to identify and collect the information and documents needed to complete filings in NMLS.
Filing Amendments to the Individual MU4 Form
Understand the purpose of amendments to the Individual MU4 Form and what to expect when filing them in NMLS.
Completing Amendment Requirements Submitted Outside of NMLS
Explains how to handle amendment-related requirements that are completed outside of NMLS.
Determining Amendment Status
Explains how to determine the status of an MU4 amendment filing in NMLS.
Renewal is the annual process of verifying, updating, and affirming your license information in NMLS to maintain your active status for the next calendar year.
NMLS Annual Renewal Overview for Individuals
NMLS provides a renewal window each year from November 1 to December 31 during which individuals may submit renewal requests for their state licenses.
Preparing for NMLS Annual Renewal for Individuals
Proper preparation helps ensure your license renewal request is submitted accurately and on time. Begin reviewing and verifying your record before the November 1 opening of the renewal period.
Requesting NMLS Annual Renewal for Individuals
This task explains how to submit a renewal request for your individual licenses or registrations during the NMLS renewal period.
Troubleshooting Common Issues with NMLS Annual Renewal
This topic outlines common issues that may prevent successful license renewal in NMLS and offers guidance on how to resolve them.
Choosing Do Not Renew for Your License
If you do not intend to renew a particular license during the annual renewal period, you must select the Do Not Renew option in NMLS to notify the relevant agency.
Reinstating Individual Licenses or Registrations
If you missed the renewal deadline, you may be able to reinstate your license during the January–February Reinstatement Period in NMLS.
Determining Renewal Status Using Composite View
You can use the Composite View tab in NMLS to monitor the status of your license renewal requests.
Understand the process of surrendering an individual state license in NMLS.
Surrendering or Withdrawing a License
How to complete a surrender or withdrawal request in NMLS.
Determining Surrender or Withdrawal Status
How to determine the current status of an individual surrender request submitted in NMLS.
Understand what the Individual (MU2) Form is, who must complete it, and the role it plays in company and branch filings in NMLS.
Attesting to an MU2 Form Filing
How to log in to your individual NMLS account, review all sections of your MU2 Form, and legally attest to the filing.
Answering MU2 Form Filing Disclosure Questions
Answer all disclosure questions on the MU2 Form and provide explanations or updates when required.
Providing MU2 Form Filing Disclosure Explanations
Provide detailed explanations for all disclosure questions answered “Yes,” clarify certain “No” responses if required, and upload supporting documentation.
Managing MU2 Form Filing Document Uploads
Upload, update, and delete documents required to support your MU2 Form filing in NMLS.
Completing the CBC Process for MU2 Individuals
Authorize and complete the Criminal Background Check (CBC) process, including scheduling fingerprint appointments and managing agency access to CBC results.
Submitting a Credit Report for MU2 Individuals
Request and submit a credit report for your MU2 Form, complete the identity verification process, and attest to the filing.
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