Get Your California MLO License (NMLS Approved)

Why does 24hourEDU include the Exam Prep Course along with the 20-hour mortgage broker course?

Our instructor knows that the NMLS required 20-hours of studying is typically not enough to pass the SAFE MLO Exam alone. To ensure students have an opportunity to continue to study, we provide everyone with a 600 page e-book, 1,000 exam prep questions, and a 30-page study guide specific to the test. We want every student to have the material needed to pass their exam. It is included, because you will need it to study.

What is a mortgage loan originator (MLO)?

A mortgage loan originator (MLO) is a professional who helps borrowers apply for and obtain mortgage loans. They assess borrowers’ financial situations, recommend appropriate loan products, and guide clients through the mortgage application process. Many people refer to the individual MLO as a mortgage loan officer or mortgage broker.

Do I need a license to become a mortgage loan originator in California?

Yes, you need a license to become a mortgage loan originator in the California. This requirement was established by the SAFE Act of 2008 to ensure that MLOs meet minimum standards for education, testing, and background checks. 24hourEDU has all of the education you need to get your MLO license in CA.

What is the difference between the two types of MLO licenses in California DRE vs DFPI?

In California, mortgage professionals need a license to originate loans. While the Department of Real Estate (DRE) used to handle all mortgage licensing, the Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI) now manages the primary MLO license. The DFPI license is more comprehensive, covering a broader range of lending regulations and ensuring mortgage loan originators meet current state and federal standards. An MLO with an ACTIVE DRE MLO license endorsement does not need a DFPI MLO license to work for a CRMLA or CFL company. All MLOs employed by finance lenders/brokers under the California Finance Law (CFL) or residential mortgage lenders/servicers under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act (CRMLA) must be licensed.

In a nutshell, if you are not currently a licensed real estate agent or broker in California, you will need to obtain your license through the California DFPI – Department of Financial Protection and Innovation. You can take our 20-Hour SAFE Comprehensive: Online Mortgage Loan Originator Course, and you will need an additional 2-hour state law course which we include for all students who complete our 20-hour course free of charge!

Does the California Association of Mortgage Professionals (CAMP) recognize 24hourEDU as an approved training provider for new mortgage loan officers in CA?

Many mortgage loan officers in California are members of CAMP, because it is the most recognized Association for Mortgage Professionals in California. 24hourEDU is an Affiliate Member of CAMP and recognized as an approved training provider for the state of California through the NMLS.

20-Hour Approved Course #16623
2-Hour CA-DFPI SAFE: California Laws Course #17177
NMLS Provider ID# 1405107

What are the pre-licensure education requirements for a CA-DFPI Mortgage Loan Originator License?

Prior to submission of the application, complete at least 20 hours of NMLS-approved pre-licensure education (PE) courses which must include 2 hours of California content.

What are the pre-licensure education requirements for a CA-DRE Real Estate Salesperson License Mortgage Loan Originator (MLO) License Endorsement?

Prior to submission of the application, complete at least 20 hours of NMLS-approved pre-licensure education (PE) courses. There are no additional state-specific PE hours required in addition to the 20 SAFE hours for the DRE license endorsement.

How much does it cost to apply for a CA-DFPI Mortgage Loan Originator License?

The CA-DFPI application fee is $300.00, the NMLS Processing Fee is $35.00, and the NMLS Sponsorship Fee is $35.00.

Are credit reports and criminal background checks required for California MLO licenses?

Yes, both a credit report and a criminal background check are required for the CA-DFPI Mortgage Loan Originator License and the CA-DRE Real Estate Salesperson License Mortgage Loan Originator (MLO) License Endorsement.

Am I allowed to work remotely as a CA-DFPI Mortgage Loan Originator?

Yes, remote work is allowed. However, applicants who do not live within a reasonable commutable distance from their licensed employment location and/or are listed as a remote worker must upload a signed remote work statement on company letterhead.

Who is required to have a CA-DRE Mortgage Loan Originator (MLO) License Endorsement?

This license endorsement is required for any real estate salesperson who works in the employ of a licensed real estate broker or corporation and conducts residential mortgage loan activities for compensation or gain.

When does a CA-DRE MLO license endorsement expire?

An individual license endorsement issued prior to October 31st of each year will be valid through December 31st of that year and will need to be renewed annually thereafter.

Does CA-DRE issue paper licenses for the MLO endorsement?

No, CA-DRE does not issue paper licenses for this license type. The MLO license endorsement certificate can be printed directly from the CA-DRE website.

What does an "Approved-Inactive" status mean for a CA-DRE license?

If you are not currently employed by a real estate broker or corporation, your license may be issued as "Approved-Inactive" until sponsorship is acquired. While in this status, you are NOT authorized to conduct business under the CA-DRE Real Estate Salesperson License.

Do I need a real estate broker license before getting a CA-DRE MLO endorsement?

Yes, an individual who desires to conduct residential mortgage loan originator activities must first obtain a California real estate broker license through CA-DRE before obtaining an MLO license endorsement.

What happens to my CA-DFPI application status when I first file it in the NMLS?

Upon filing the application, the license status will be reflected in the NMLS as "Pending - Incomplete." This status will remain until the application is reviewed and changed by the Department's staff.

Can I conduct business if my CA-DFPI MLO license is in "Approved-Inactive" status?

No. If your license is issued as "Approved-Inactive" because you are not currently sponsored by a mortgage company, you are NOT authorized to conduct business under the CA-DFPI Mortgage Loan Originator License until sponsorship is acquired.

What type of legal documentation is accepted by CA-DFPI for a name change?

CA-DFPI accepts legal documentation such as a divorce decree, marriage certificate, or passport. A driver's license or social security card are not acceptable documents for legal name verification.

How do I verify my citizenship status for a CA-DFPI MLO license?

California requires appropriate documentation of citizenship or alien status. You must complete and upload the Statement of Citizenship, Alienage, and Immigration Status form to the NMLS.

Do I need to disclose past criminal convictions to the CA-DFPI even if they were expunged?

Yes. California Penal Code requires applicants to disclose convictions in response to direct questions on the application for licensure, even if the felony has been expunged.