2026 data New York board official source

New York Mortgage Loan Originator License Requirements

Official regulator records behind the requirements, fees, and renewal cycle for this license.

Helps borrowers obtain home loans. Requires SAFE MLO Test.

What the New York data shows for Mortgage Loan Originators

To practice as a mortgage loan originator in New York, the state licensing board requires 20 documented education or training hours, a passing score on SAFE Mortgage Loan Originator Test. A criminal history background check is also part of the application. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. The regulation sits under New York's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "NMLS Pre-License Education (20 hours federal requirement)".

Upfront cost is $454, with renewal running $307 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.

For mortgage loan originators, the reciprocity picture is: SAFE Act: federal license recognized across states via NMLS.

Licensing Requirements in New York

Education / Training Hours
NMLS Pre-License Education (20 hours federal requirement)
20 hours
Exam Requirement
SAFE Mortgage Loan Originator Test
Required
Initial License Fee
$454
Renewal Fee
$307
Renewal Cycle
Every 1 year
Continuing Education
8 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with New York licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Mortgage Loan Originator in New York?
New York requires 20 education/training hours, passing an exam (SAFE Mortgage Loan Originator Test), and an initial fee of $454. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Mortgage Loan Originator in New York?
New York licenses mortgage loan originators who complete its requirements (20 education hours) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the New York licensing board.
Can I transfer my Mortgage Loan Originator license to New York from another state?
Reciprocity for mortgage loan originators nationally works like this: SAFE Act: federal license recognized across states via NMLS. Beyond that baseline, interstate compacts exist for many professions and may smooth a transfer into New York. Verify the specifics with the New York licensing board.
Does New York require a background check for Mortgage Loan Originator licensing?
Yes, New York 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 New York?
New York ties continued mortgage loan originator licensure to 8 continuing-education hours, due every 1 year, alongside a $307 renewal fee.

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