Mortgage Loan Originator / West Virginia
2026 data West Virginia board official source

West Virginia Mortgage Loan Originator License Requirements

State-board requirements, fees, and renewal cycle drawn from official regulator records.

Helps borrowers obtain home loans. Requires SAFE MLO Test.

What the West Virginia data shows for Mortgage Loan Originators

West Virginia sets the entry bar for mortgage loan originators at 20 training hours and a passing score on SAFE Mortgage Loan Originator Test. A background check is a standard part of the process, and applicants must be 18 or older. The credential is administered under West Virginia's licensing regime, which classifies the training track as "NMLS Pre-License Education (20 hours federal requirement)".

Budget $234 to get started, plus $163 at each renewal on a 1-year cycle. Renewal isn't the end of the cost: 8 hours of continuing education are due every 1-year cycle, a recurring time commitment worth planning for.

Reciprocity for this profession works like this: SAFE Act: federal license recognized across states via NMLS.

Licensing Requirements in West Virginia

Education / Training Hours
NMLS Pre-License Education (20 hours federal requirement)
20 hours
Exam Requirement
SAFE Mortgage Loan Originator Test
Required
Initial License Fee
$234
Renewal Fee
$163
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 West Virginia licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Mortgage Loan Originator in West Virginia?
West Virginia requires 20 education/training hours, passing an exam (SAFE Mortgage Loan Originator Test), and an initial fee of $234. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Mortgage Loan Originator in West Virginia?
To become a licensed mortgage loan originator in West Virginia, you must meet the state's requirements including 20 hours of education. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the West Virginia licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Mortgage Loan Originator license to West Virginia 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 West Virginia. Verify the specifics with the West Virginia licensing board.
Does West Virginia require a background check for Mortgage Loan Originator licensing?
Yes, West Virginia 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 West Virginia?
Licensed mortgage loan originators in West Virginia must complete 8 hours of continuing education every 1 year. The renewal fee is $163.

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