Step 1
Speak With Your Company About Renewal
Quick Start Guide for Individual Renewals
NMLS is the official system of record so it is important to coordinate use with your employer.
If your company is licensed with or registered in a state through NMLS, either of you can complete your first Individual Form (MU4) in NMLS. Whoever creates the first Individual Form (MU4) must pay any associated fees when it is submitted to the state agency.
If your company is completing your first Individual Form (MU4), wait for their direction before proceeding.
Step 2
Make Sure Your Record is Up to Date in NMLS
Confirm you are able to access your NMLS account by logging in with your username and password.
If you need assistance with your login credentials, utilize the “Forgot your User Name/Password” hyperlinks on the NMLS log in screen.
Review the information on record in the Composite View tab of NMLS. If updates are necessary, use the appropriate quick guide to make updates:
Step 3
Download the Renewals Handbook
It is important to understand individual requirements for all licensees in NMLS. Review the resources below to ensure you understand requirements applicable to all licensees in every state.
- Renewals Handbook - Detailed, printable instructions for license renewal.
Step 4
Complete Your Continuing Education
Mortgage Loan Originators need to complete a minimum of eight hours of NMLS-approved continuing education (CE) annually. State-specific CE may also be required.
- State-Specific Requirements - Find out if you need to complete state-specific CE and to see early deadlines and other details.
- NMLS-Approved Course Providers - These are the only schools you’re allowed to take a CE course from. The school is responsible for reporting completions to NMLS. If you’re missing a course, contact the school directly.
Step 5
Review Your Education Record
After completing CE, the school has seven days to report it to NMLS. Log into NMLS to check your CE status.
Step 6
Review Common and State Requirements for Renewal
Common Requirements
NMLS licensees have a common set of requirements for renewal, regardless of the state(s) in which you renew.
- NMLS Policy Guidebook
- Submitting Financial Statements
- Professional Standards Requirements
Mid-September: State-Specific Requirements
In addition to common requirements, specific licenses may have additional requirements. You can compile your state-specific requirements for your licenses using the Annual Renewal Checklist Compiler.
This list is updated mid-September each year, and a state's requirements may have changed. Make sure to review the requirements every year for the states in which you are licensed and requesting renewal.
Step 7
Starting Nov. 1 - Request License Renewal
Starting Nov. 1, licensees can log in to NMLS, click the Renewals Tab, and request renewal of their license(s). Alternatively, licensees also have the ability to identify licenses they do not wish to renew.
In certain instances, sponsoring companies may wish to submit a renewal requests on behalf of an individual licensee. Individuals should consult with their sponsoring company to determine who is responsible for the submission of their renewal request.
A completed renewal request will reflect a "Renewal Requested" status in the Composite View tab of NMLS and the licensee will receive a confirmation email from the System.
Step 8
What's Next?
Once Step 7 is completed, your state agency is notified of your renewal request. Your state agency will review your request, communicate any identified issues, and update the status of your renewal request.
The Composite View tab in NMLS contains the most up- to-date information regarding the status of your renewal request. The NMLS Call Center does not have additional information regarding the status of a renewal request. The NMLS Call Center does not have the ability to change the status of your renewal request.
More Questions?
Review these Frequently Asked Questions.
