Texas MLO License: Requirements, Cost & Steps

How to get your Texas mortgage loan originator license: NMLS steps, 20-hour course, state fees, background check, and renewal deadlines.

Step-by-step overview of the Texas mortgage loan originator (MLO) licensing process through NMLS, administered by the Texas Department of Savings and Mortgage Lending (SML) / Office of Consumer Credit Commissioner (OCCC).

Who regulates MLOs in Texas

The Texas Department of Savings and Mortgage Lending (SML) / Office of Consumer Credit Commissioner (OCCC) issues the Texas Residential Mortgage Loan Originator License under the federal SAFE Act via NMLS. Federally insured depository MLOs register with NMLS as federal registrants and do not hold a state MLO license.

State-specific note: Texas has two MLO regulators: SML for depository/mortgage banker sponsored MLOs, OCCC for regulated-lender sponsored MLOs. The license type follows the sponsoring company.

Application steps

  1. Create your NMLS individual account.
  2. Complete SAFE-approved pre-licensing education (20-hour national course plus any Texas-specific hours).
  3. Pass the SAFE MLO Test with Uniform State Content.
  4. Order NMLS fingerprints and credit report.
  5. File the MU4 requesting the Texas license and pay fees.
  6. Have a licensed Texas company file sponsorship on your MU4.
  7. Respond to license-item requests from Texas Department of Savings and Mortgage Lending (SML) / Office of Consumer Credit Commissioner (OCCC).
  8. Receive an Approved status and begin originating.

Annual renewal

State-licensed MLOs renew annually during the NMLS renewal period (November 1 – December 31), complete SAFE-approved continuing education, maintain active sponsorship, and meet any Texas-specific renewal items.

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