Mortgage Loan Originator / Montana
2026 data Montana board official source

Montana Mortgage Loan Originator License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

Requirements, fees, and renewal timing for this license, sourced from state board records.

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Helps borrowers obtain home loans. Requires SAFE MLO Test.

What the Montana data shows for Mortgage Loan Originators

Becoming a licensed mortgage loan originator in Montana means clearing a defined set of hurdles: 20 training hours, a passing score on SAFE Mortgage Loan Originator Test, plus a background history check once the applicant turns 18. Montana regulators place this credential inside their licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "NMLS Pre-License Education (20 hours federal requirement)".

Budget $575 to get started, plus $386 at each renewal on a 1-year cycle. The license also carries an ongoing 8-hour continuing-education requirement per 1-year cycle that adds to the true cost of staying licensed.

On reciprocity, mortgage loan originators should know: SAFE Act: federal license recognized across states via NMLS.

Licensing Requirements in Montana

Education / Training Hours
NMLS Pre-License Education (20 hours federal requirement)
20 hours
Exam Requirement
SAFE Mortgage Loan Originator Test
Required
Initial License Fee
$575
Renewal Fee
$386
Renewal Cycle
Every 1 year
Continuing Education
8 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years

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Compare all states for Mortgage Loan Originator All Montana licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Montana licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Mortgage Loan Originator in Montana? ▼
Montana's requirements cover 20 hours of education or training, the SAFE Mortgage Loan Originator Test exam, and an initial fee of $575. Applicants also go through a criminal background check.
How do I get certified as a Mortgage Loan Originator in Montana? ▼
To become a licensed mortgage loan originator in Montana, you must meet the state's requirements including 20 hours of education. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the Montana licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Mortgage Loan Originator license to Montana from another state? ▼
Here's how reciprocity typically plays out for mortgage loan originators: SAFE Act: federal license recognized across states via NMLS. Many occupations are additionally covered by interstate licensing compacts that ease cross-state moves. Check with the Montana licensing board for how this applies to you.
Does Montana require a background check for Mortgage Loan Originator licensing? ▼
Yes, Montana requires a criminal background check as part of the mortgage loan originator licensing process. Disqualifying offenses and review criteria are determined by the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Mortgage Loan Originator in Montana? ▼
Licensed mortgage loan originators in Montana must complete 8 hours of continuing education every 1 year. The renewal fee is $386.

Related Guides

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.