Keeping Your MLO License: Continuing Education and Renewal
State MLO licenses are renewed each year. To renew you must still meet the licensing standards and complete continuing education (12 U.S.C. 5105; 12 CFR 1008.107, as at 11 Oct 2026).
| CE content | Minimum hours each year |
|---|---|
| Federal law and regulations | 3 |
| Ethics (fraud, consumer protection, fair lending) | 2 |
| Nontraditional mortgage lending standards | 2 |
| Elective (often state-specific) | 1 |
| Total | 8 |
CE rules
- You may not take the same course in the same or the next year to meet the requirement.
- Credit counts only in the year you take the course; no carry-forward.
- Instructors earn 2 hours of credit for each hour taught.
- States may require additional state-specific hours.
Renewal timing
Under the Model State Law, licenses expire December 31; renewals are filed through NMLS in the annual renewal period that starts November 1. Complete CE early so your course completions post before you renew.
The 5-year rule
If you go 5 years or more without a valid state license (not counting time as a registered originator), you must pass the SAFE MLO Test again (12 U.S.C. 5104(d)(4)).
Frequently asked questions
How many CE hours do MLOs need?
At least 8 hours each year: 3 federal law, 2 ethics, 2 nontraditional lending and 1 elective (12 CFR 1008.107).
Can I repeat a CE course?
Not in the same or the next year to meet the requirement.
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