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Before You Apply
Before you apply for an individual license or registration in NMLS, there are a several tasks you need to complete.
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.

Before You Apply
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.
  - Determining Who Is Responsible for Payment
    Before submitting your Individual MU4 application, determine whether you or your employer is responsible for paying the associated fees.
  - Granting Access to Your Company
    Provide your company access to your NMLS record so that they can sponsor your license (if their license is managed through NMLS).
  - Getting Sponsored by Your Employer
    Explains the purpose and workflow of sponsorship in NMLS, including the steps of granting access to a company, establishing a relationship, and initiating sponsorship by an employer.
- 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.

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.

If you are currently employed by a company licensed or registered through NMLS, coordinate with them before you begin your Individual MU4 license or registration application.

Employers may choose to submit and/or pay for the application on your behalf, and many companies have internal procedures or staff to help guide you through the process.

If you are not currently employed, you may still apply for a license or registration independently. However, certain license types require sponsorship from an employer before the license can be approved.

The following resources provide more detail on working with your employer in NMLS:

Company Access – Understanding company access to your record
Company Relationship – How your record is associated with your employer
Sponsoring a License – How sponsorship works and when it’s required

Contact the NMLS Call Center with any questions: 1-855-665-7123
Monday - Friday from 9:00AM to 9:00PM ET
Available from all U.S. States and Territories.