How to Get an NMLS Mortgage License in Illinois

1. Apply for Your NMLS Account and ID Number

To become a Mortgage Loan Originator (MLO) in Illinois, first go to the NMLS website to register for your “unique identifier.” You will get an NMLS (Nationwide Multistate Licensing System) account and will be assigned an ID number. You will use this number often through the licensing process.

2. Complete Your NMLS Pre-License Education

To obtain a new Illinois MLO license, you must successfully complete at least 20 hours of NMLS-approved coursework through an accredited organization like Mortgage Educators. Illinois does not require state-specific PE (Pre-License Education).

3. Pass the NMLS Mortgage Licensing Exam

Once PE is complete, the next step in getting a mortgage license in Illinois, to pass the National Test Component exam given through NMLS. You must receive a score of 75% or higher. Learn more about this step here.

4. Complete Background Checks and Pay All Fees

Now that you have passed the exam, you can start applying for your mortgage license in Illinois. To meet the background check requirements, you must be fingerprinted, submit to a background check, and pay for an individual credit report. For more information about background checks and fingerprinting requirements, click here.

5. Apply for Your Illinois Mortgage License

There are many steps in the process of getting your Illinois MLO license, so use this checklist to ensure you don’t miss or forget anything.

6. Associate Your NMLS Number with Your Employer

In order to generate mortgage loans in Illinois, you must have a documented and reported relationship with a licensed mortgage company. Use this link to establish that professional relationship with NMLS.

Revive and Renew with a Mortgage License in Illinois

Becoming an MLO in Illinois can change your life, personally and professionally. The flexibility of this career choice is one of its greatest benefits. If you are interested in making some extra money, but having softer goals, you can choose an employer who is satisfied with whatever number of mortgages you close.

On the other hand, you can make a substantial amount of money with hard work and determination. We are committed to providing the education, tips, and up-to-date information and requirements to help you make the most of your mortgage license in Illinois.

Illinois Frequently Asked Questions

In an effort to curb the predatory lending practices that led to the demise of the housing and residential mortgage industry in 2008, the Secure and Fair Enforcement for Mortgage Licensing Act (SAFE) was enacted. This opened up a world of opportunity to those driven to attain an MLO license and then work hard to match people with loan products.

Topic	Hours Required
Fair Lending, Ethics, Fraud, and Consumer Protection	3 Hours
Federal Laws and Regulations	3 Hours
Non-Standard Lending	2 Hours
Undefined Electives	12 Hours
Total 20 Hours

If you complete the required 20 hours of education but do not obtain your license for a 3-year period, you'll need to repeat the coursework. The same applies if you let your license lapse for 3+ years before you want to get back into the industry.

A “mortgage broker” refers to an individual or an organization that connects consumers with mortgage loans from a variety of companies. Mortgage brokers frequently employ loan officers. In contrast, a loan officer is an employee who regularly works with borrowers and provides loans that are originated by their employer. Brokers and loan officers need different types of licenses.

Earning your mortgage broker license in Illinois should be considered an investment well worth your time. Here’s what to expect when it comes to licensing fees in Illinois:

NMLS Fees
NMLS Initial Processing Fee	$30
Credit Report	$15
FBI Criminal Background Check	$36.25
Illinois License/Registration Fee	$200
Total License Cost	$281.25

On an annual basis, Illinois MLO license holders must complete 8 total hours of Comprehensive Continuing Education that must cover:

Topic	Required Hours
Federal Regulations and Law	3 Hours
Ethics, including consumer protection, fair lending	2 Hours
Non-Traditional mortgage lending	2 Hours
Illinois Specific Education	1 Hour

Remember to take into account the “successive years” rule, which prohibits loan officers from taking the same CE course two years in a row. Mortgage Educators changes its continuing education course annually to ensure there are no issues with the successive years rule.
The deadline to complete CE in Illinois is December 31st. MLO's in Illinois are actually prevented from applying for license renewal until they have completed their CE.

Mortgage Educators and Compliance is here to answer any additional questions you may have regarding your Illinois mortgage license. For additional questions, feel free to call us at 801-676-2520 or email us at [email protected].

Illinois Mortgage Education Pre-Licensing Illinois NMLS Approved Course Provider